Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 139: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance when the Commission on Taxation as proposed in the Programme for Government will be established. [17253/07]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Programme for Government contains certain commitments in the area of taxation policy including a commitment to the establishment of a Commission on Taxation which will have a wide remit to consider the structure of the taxation system. The Commission will be specifically charged with considering and making recommendations on the following:

Examine the balance achieved between taxes collected on income, capital and spending and report on it

Review all tax expenditures with a view to recommending the discontinuation of those that are unjustifiable on cost/benefit grounds

Consider options for the future financing of local government

In the context of maintaining a strong economy, investigate fiscal measures to protect and enhance the environment including the introduction of a carbon tax

I will be bringing proposals to Government in the near future on matters relating to the establishment of the proposed Commission including its membership and terms of reference. Pending consideration by the Government of these proposals, I am not in a position to elaborate further on matters pertaining to the Commission or its work programme.