asked the Minister for Finance if his Department have an estimate of the annual degree of tax evasion, listing the various categories; and the measures which are being taken to reduce this evasion.
Written Answers. - Tax Evasion.
82.
Reliable statistics are not available on the lines requested by the Deputy. The very nature of tax evasion makes it extremely difficult to estimate its extent.
The Government are committed to fighting tax evasion. The incentive to clear arrears of tax and the new assessment procedures for self-employed taxpayers will greatly improve the effectiveness of the tax assessment and collection system. As a result it is anticipated that resources previously utilised in the arduous task of examining and agreeing tax liabilities will be more generally available to intensifying the battle against tax evasion. The focus of attention is moving away from the complaint taxpayer and resources are now being redirected in an intensified effort to tackle evasion. This new approach will augment the existing anti-evasion work of the Revenue which involves both investigative work and the use of statutory provisions to deter evasion.