Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 14 Oct 1998

Vol. 495 No. 2

Written Answers. - Computerisation Programme.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

60 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Finance if the computer equipment required by the Revenue Commissioners to enable them to carry out more speedy and efficient audits of tax returns has been provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19588/98]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they are fully committed to providing computer facilities for audit programmes and that the provision of enhanced computer facilities to ensure more efficient and effective audits is under ongoing review.

The principal computer programmes being developed at present which are relevant to audit are as follows: First, consolidated taxpayer processing links together all tax records for each individual taxpayer and, when finalised, will help in examining the case for potential tax risk under all taxes. Second, a computer programme — Active Intervention for Audit — has been developed and is undergoing testing at present. It is expected that this programme will be available for analysing audit results commencing in January 1999. Third, a computer programme to assess potential tax risk and assist with audit case selection has been researched — the options available are under consideration. Fourth, specialist audit computer software has been purchased and is being used by auditors in carrying out audits on larger companies with computerised records.