asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to press reports of the decision of the Irish Taxes Union not to give priority to representations by Deputies made to them on behalf of constituents in relation to urgent tax problems, and if he will make a statement on the matter giving an assurance that all such representations will be replied to, should this decision be put into effect.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Urgent Tax Problem Representations.
6.
I do not think it would be desirable to engage at this juncture in speculation on this matter. Every effort will continue to be made to deal as expeditiously as possible with representations by Deputies in relation to the tax affairs of their constituents as well as with urgent representations made by taxpayers themselves.
The Minister is aware, no doubt, of the very high standards of courtesy and efficiency displayed by inspectors of taxes when dealing with such representations. Does he not consider that the present arrangement, which is most satisfactory from the point of view of the inspectors of taxes and public representatives, should continue? Should it not continue, can the Minister say whether it would be more appropriate then to address such inquiries to his office, so that no time would be lost in having immediate inquiries made. This involves extremely urgent tax problems which occasionally arise in relation to constituents.
I appreciate very much what the Deputy has said about the courtesy and efficiency of inspectors of taxes when dealing with members of the public. I would like to endorse that and to express my appreciation of his recognition. I have no reason to believe that the courtesy and the efficiency will not continue. If developments occur I assure the Deputy that I will look at it in a different light but I am confident now that the existing arrangements will be continued.