Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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59. To ask the Minister for Finance if he has received the approval of the European Commission for the introduction of a share based incentive scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42435/17]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, on a foot of a review of share based remuneration conducted in 2016, it was announced in the Budget 2017 that work had commenced on the development of a new, SME-focused, share-based incentive scheme, to be introduced in Budget 2018.

It was noted that such an incentive would require the approval of the European Commission and that officials would be engaging with the Commission to ensure that the incentive would comply with State Aid rules.  This process has been ongoing throughout the year and is expected to conclude in the near future.

The Deputy will be aware that it is not the practice of the Minister for Finance to discuss in advance the details of measures which may be under consideration as part of the Budget and Finance Bill. It is my intention to provide further information in the context of the Budget.