asked the Minister for Finance if he will state in respect of each of the three latest tax years for which the details are available the number of demands served on employers under Section 6 of the Finance Act, 1923, to deduct arrears of income tax from the remuneration of employed persons for payment to the Revenue Commissioners, and the amount collected in each year in this manner.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Income-tax Arrears Deductions.
Under the revenue statistical and accounting systems separate figures are not available in relation to the matters referred to by the Deputy. It is estimated, however, that during the year 1956-57 the provisions of Section 6 of the Finance Act, 1923, were invoked for the recovery of tax in approximately 34,000 cases.
Would the Minister draw the attention of the Revenue Commissioners to the fact that the increasing use of their powers in this matter is causing considerable hardship? Will he request them to restrict the use of these powers for the future?
It may be necessary.