Bernard J. Durkan
Question:151 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the likely financial strategy to be pursued by Ireland at EU Council of Minister meetings with reference to taxation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30446/03]
Written Answers. - EU Summits.
I am not clear whether the Deputy is referring to specific taxation dossiers or to proposed changes to treaty provisions. Ireland's strategy in respect of treaty provisions on taxation at meetings of the Council of Ministers is clear. We have always supported the principle of decision making by unanimity in taxation matters. We are firmly opposed to a move to qualified majority voting for decision making in taxation matters. Taxation remains a key issue for Ireland in the context of the negotiations under way at the Intergovernmental Conference on a new EU constitutional treaty. We will continue to oppose any move from unanimity in taxation matters. Ireland's strategy on specific taxation proposals at meetings of the Council of Ministers depends on the particular proposal, as well as on an assessment of its benefits and disadvantages. A number of dossiers will arise in the direct and indirect tax area in the context of Ireland's forthcoming Presidency of the EU.