Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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Question 294: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if complaints have been received by him regarding public works potentially being carried out by contractors operating in the black economy; the number of complaints that were upheld; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27379/11]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I am not aware of specific complaints being received by me or my Department with regard to public works contracts being carried out by contractors in the black economy. I would point out that contractors being awarded a public contract must provide a Tax Clearance Certificate issued by Revenue confirming that the firm's tax affairs are in order and that it has complied with its tax obligations. With respect to assertions about activity in the black economy, the Minister for Finance informs me that the Revenue Commissioners are active in this area through the Hidden Economy Monitoring Group which includes discussions with relevant industry bodies.