Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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284. To ask the Minister for Finance if he has issued an instruction to the Revenue Commissioners to ensure that all public services and forms, including the former Revenue Commissioners form 12A, are still available to be lodged in physical form to the Revenue Commissioners instead of online only, as at present, in view of the fact that many people are not capable of making such return online, or do not have a computer or have access to broadband; if not, if he plans to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44750/24]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, Revenue is independent in relation to its operational activities. As such, I have no role in instructing Revenue on matters relating to those functions, including recommendations on its online services.

As set out in Revenue’s Customer Service Standards and Commitments, their business model is 'Digital First’, in line with the Public Service Reform Plan 2030. This approach recognises changing customer expectations and enables Revenue to provide online services on a 24/7 basis.

Revenue acknowledges that, while many customers prefer digital interaction, there are also individuals who need a more traditional service. While Revenue encourages taxpayers to avail of its easy-to-use online channels, it continues to facilitate any persons who may have difficulty in using these options, for example due to disability or to limited broadband access, by providing a range of telephone and appointment services in addition to accepting and responding to enquiries via standard post.

Revenue advises that the Form 12A was discontinued in 2016 and first employments should be registered via its online service myAccount.

However, where customers do not have access to online services or require assistance in registering a first employment, they can contact Revenue at:

• Registrations Unit helpline (01 7383630); or
• PAYE Helpline (01 7383636); or
• Call to one of its public offices in Dublin, Limerick, Cork or Galway.