Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
489. Deputy Kieran O'Donnell asked the Minister for Finance if matters raised in correspondence by a person (details supplied) in relation to small businesses will receive a response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15347/21]
View answerI am aware of recent representations received by my office and the Office of the Revenue Commissioners from the person referred to, and am advised that the most recent reply issued to the person from Revenue on 26 February.
In that reply, the person was assured that Revenue is very conscious of the challenges facing businesses and tax practitioners arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and has implemented some key initiatives to support taxpayers during this very difficult time. These initiatives include, among others, the administration of the wage subsidy and other support schemes (TWSS, EWSS and CRSS), the Debt Warehousing Scheme and the suspension of debt collection activity.
Regarding tax filing obligations and the imposition of late filing surcharges, the person was informed of the flexibility allowed for recent annual filing dates, and that this area remains under review.
Finally, the person was informed that Revenue is prepared to take a reasonable and pragmatic approach in exceptional circumstances where it can be demonstrated that there is genuine difficulty in meeting a tax filing deadline due to COVID-19 and was provided with relevant contact details.
