Written answers

Tuesday, 31 May 2022

Department of Finance

Revenue Commissioners

Photo of Aengus Ó SnodaighAengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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171. To ask the Minister for Finance if he will advise the way in which elderly and non-IT users access the Revenue Commissioners services; if they can make appointments for in-person meetings; and the way that this is achieved when access and capability of IT technology is not possible. [27512/22]

Photo of Paschal DonohoePaschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by Revenue that all Revenue public offices, excluding ports, airports and trade facilitations stations remain closed to the public until further notice.

Revenue continues to provide a full range of online services for taxpayers to manage their tax affairs, which for the most part removes any requirement to access public offices. These services, which include an online communications channel through the MyEnquiries system, are available 24/7, are easy to use and are fully secure.

For customers that are not comfortable with its online service, Revenue provides an extensive telephone service, in addition to a full service for queries being received through the postal system. The full list of telephone services and their opening hours are available on the Revenue website.

Regarding situations where complex tax issues exist that require direct engagement, Revenue provides a one to one virtual appointment service with the relevant official. These engagements are carried out remotely by video conferencing. Such an appointment can be arranged by contacting 01 738 3660. The appointment phoneline opening hours are 09.30 to 13.30 (Monday to Friday).

As advised in my response to a previous question on this matter, Revenue has confirmed that it will expand the virtual appointments service to include face to face appointments as part of its post-pandemic blended working arrangements. I am advised that planning is at an advanced stage and it is anticipated that this service will be available by the end of June at the O’Connell Street Revenue Office, and subsequently at other locations as the blended working arrangements are bedded in.

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