Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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127. To ask the Minister for Finance if VAT on defibrillators (details supplied) will be removed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19723/14]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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The VAT rating of goods and services is constrained by the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. Defibrillators, other than implantable defibrillators, are liable to VAT at the standard rate of 23%. Parts or accessories and training are also liable to VAT at the standard rate.

There is no provision in the EU VAT Directive that would make it possible to exempt from VAT the supply of defibrillators. Under the VAT (Refund of Tax) (No.15) Order, 1981 it is possible for individuals to obtain repayment of VAT expended on certain goods and appliances which assist persons with a disability to overcome that disability.  In this context, a defibrillator purchased by or on behalf of an individual may qualify for a VAT refund.  However, a defibrillator purchased for general use by a sports body or charity would not qualify for such a refund.