Written answers

Tuesday, 28 February 2017

Photo of Martin HeydonMartin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

51. To ask the Minister for Finance the status of the work of the tax strategy group in 2017 with particular reference to a review of the current system of betting tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10041/17]

Photo of Michael NoonanMichael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, during the Finance Bill Committee Stage Debates in both the Dáil and the Seanad, my colleague, Minister of State Eoghan Murphy TD, gave a commitment that betting duty would be examined as part of the Tax Strategy Group process in 2017.  I can inform you that officials in my Department are in the early stages of examining the area with a view to completing a review for inclusion in the Excise TSG Paper 2017.

The Deputy will also be aware that the Tax Strategy Group (TSG) is in place since the early 1990s and is chaired by the Department of Finance with membership comprising senior officials and political advisers from a number of Civil Service Departments and Offices. Papers on various options for tax policy changes are prepared annually for the Group by Department of Finance officials. Papers relating to PRSI and social welfare issues are also prepared for the Group by the Department of Social Protection.

In line with the Government's commitment to Budgetary reform including greater engagement with the Oireachtas, the Tax Strategy Group papers relating to Budget 2017 were published in July 2016. This was well in advance of Budget Day and helped to facilitate informed discussion. Decisions in relation to the TSG for Budget 2018 have yet to be finalised but I am satisfied that the approach adopted last year worked well and I do not expect to change it significantly.

It is important to note that the Tax Strategy Group is not a decision-making body and the papers produced are a list of options and issues.  They are only one part of an overall Budgetary and Finance Bill process which now includes the National Economic Dialogue, the Budget Oversight Committee and the provision of pre-Budget submissions and engagement with specific groups and individuals. 

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.