asked the Minister for Finance whether, prior to the imposition of the turnover tax in the Budget, he had any discussion with either consumer organisations such as the Irish Housewives' Association or the Irish Countrywomen's Association, or with trading organisations of retailers, as to the method of operation of the tax, and its incidence on goods in various price ranges.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Retail Turnover Tax.
4.
I would remind the Deputy that in my Budget speech I said that I was hoping and would be grateful for the active co-operation of the business community in the work of devising simple and effective procedures for the operation of the tax, and I have no doubt that this co-operation will be forthcoming in good time from the various trading organisations concerned. I shall, of course, be glad also to give careful consideration to any representations I receive from consumers and other persons who may be affected by the tax. It is not customary, however, to invite discussions of the details of the tax in advance of its proposal to the Dáil and I saw no reason to depart from precedent in connection with the turnover tax.
In view of the fact that the tax does not come into operation until 1st November next, surely the reasons why it should not be discussed in advance do not arise in this instance? The Minister must have had a discussion with somebody.
There will be plenty of time to discuss it now, as the Deputy knows.