Vol. 405 No. 4
57 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many security companies are operating in the black economy to the disadvantage of legitimate firms; and the action he proposes to take in the matter.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they are aware of non compliance with tax obligations by certain elements within the security industry. The special inquiry branch within the Revenue Commissioners are actively engaged in identifying firms in this and other industries which are not on the tax record. Joint investigation units of social welfare and revenue officers set up to combat the black economy have undertaken projects in this industry and continue investigations on an ongoing basis as required. The programme was strengthened by the introduction of the Social Welfare (Notification by Employers of Commencement of Employment) Regulations 1988 which became effective on 1 January 1989. These regulations require employers in certain industries, including the security industry, to notify the Department of Social Welfare of any new employees taken on by them.
Information concerning abuses of the social welfare, income tax and VAT codes has been brought to the Revenue Commissioners attention by representatives of both trade unions and the security industry. All information provided has been examined. Measures to combat evasion are kept under continuous review, and all relevant information should be communicated to the Revenue Commissioners. If the Deputy has specific information in this regard he should refer it to the Revenue Commissioners for investigation.
