Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 343: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he will take to protect Irish interests under the proposed US tax haven abuse laws; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28255/09]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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There are a number of proposals, in Congress, and from the Administration, for measures to address the use of tax havens by individuals or companies.

Ireland is not considered a tax haven and proposals in this area should not be a threat to our interests. Nonetheless, the Embassy in Washington is closely following developments in this regard and promoting awareness among policy-makers that Ireland's tax system is fully compliant with OECD and EU frameworks and that Ireland has a network of tax treaties and information sharing agreements with many countries, including the United States.

The Embassy in Washington and IDA are monitoring proposed changes to the broader US international tax system and reviewing the possible implications for Ireland. They are continuing a comprehensive programme of outreach with contacts in the Administration and Congress to ensure that the mutual benefits of our existing relationships with the U.S. and U.S. companies in Ireland are fully understood.