Derek Nolan (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Finance if there is currently a phone number persons can use to report tax defaulters; and if such a hotline is manned at all times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25843/11]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the Deputy and the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners discussed this at the meeting of the Public Accounts Committee on the 22nd. September. While there is no one dedicated phone number, the Chairman outlined that people can, and do, advise Revenue of evidence of tax evasion through the network of local offices, by phone, email or letter. She also spoke about the Confidential Freephone 1800 295 295 for reporting tobacco smuggling or sale of illicit tobacco products. The challenge with these approaches is how to get useful information while minimising the opportunity cost to Revenue and the impact on compliant taxpayers.

With a view to improving the value, Revenue is currently discussing with some business/trade bodies the provision of a template form which their members can complete and submit through the body, thereby protecting their identities if they wish.

Reports of suspected evasion/fraud should provide as much detail as possible particularly in terms of location, names, addresses, telephone numbers and vehicle registrations.