Departmental Agencies

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 February 2012

Wednesday, 8 February 2012

Questions (84)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

84 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the State and semi-State agencies and commercial companies including those in the communications sector that allow employees to be employed as contractors; his views that the use of the contractor status may facilitate tax evasion; his plans to reform this arrangement in public agencies and companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7162/12]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Brendan Howlin)

In regard to awarding contracts for public works, supplies or services, State bodies are required to ensure that winning tenderers can provide a certificate of tax clearance issued by the Revenue Commissioners before a contract is awarded.

The issue of whether an employee or contractor is hired is a matter for the particular agency or commercial company.