Vol. 461 No. 4
59 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Finance his views on the representations made concerning the change in tax status for a recycling company (details supplied) in order to grant such companies involved in the recycling business the manufacturing tax rate of 10 per cent rather than the higher standard rate of 38 per cent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2848/96]
The 10 per cent corporation tax rate applies to profits arising from the manufacture of goods in the State. The question of whether the processes carried out by a company constitute manufacturing activity, and so entitle the company to the 10 per cent rate, depends on the facts to be determined in each case.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the sorting, cutting and bailing of waste paper for further use in the recycling industry does not, of itself, constitute a manufacturing activity within the meaning of the legislation.
Any amendment of the legislation to specifically extend the 10 per cent rate to selected services activities would constitute a State aid which would require prior EU Commission approval. It cannot be taken that such approval would be forthcoming at this time.
The Deputy will be aware that in my recent budget I announced a significant improvement in the taxation of all companies which are currently taxable at the standard rate. From 1 April next, a new reduced rate of corporation tax of 30 per cent will apply to the first £50,000 of a company's taxable income. This move will be of benefit to all companies in the services sector, including those referred to by the Deputy.
