Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 29 Feb 2000

Vol. 515 No. 3

Written Answers. - Tax Evasion.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

280 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to parliamentary Question Nos. 159 and 160 of 15 February 2000, the circumstances in which a person (details supplied), who pleaded guilty to offences of failing to file tax returns in respect of the years 1988 to 1999 and made a reported settlement with the Revenue Commissioners for a sum exceeding £800,000, was proceeded against without a charge being brought against him under section 9 of the Waiver of Certain Tax, Interest and Penalties Act, 1993, of failing to avail of the tax amnesty provided for under that Act in view of the fact the sums of outstanding tax involved would have given rise to a mandatory sentence of imprisonment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6060/00]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the person referred to by the Deputy is presently charged before the criminal courts with various offences under the Finance Act, 1983, and one offence under the Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997, and, therefore, the matter is sub judice. I should also point out to the Deputy that the question of what charges, if any, should be brought in a given case is a matter for the Director of Public Prosecutions.