Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent)
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341. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he has refused a request from the Revenue Commissioners to hire additional audit inspectors; his reasons for so doing in view that the return on such investment would be expected to be between 12 and 15 to one, and in view of the need to demonstrate his commitment to tax compliance, equity and fairness. [34390/14]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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No request from Revenue to hire additional audit inspectors has been received or refused. While Revenue's staffing levels have decreased in line with Government policy on Public Service Numbers, I have given delegated sanction to Revenue to fill critical posts within the Office's overall Employment Control Framework ceiling. This sanction provides the potential to hire staff to meet specific skills deficits, including replacing staff in the area of audit, investigation and compliance.

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they continue to prioritise their available resources to achieve their strategic objective of a more tax and customs compliant society and a Revenue administration that fosters economic recovery and development.