asked the Minister for Finance if there is a backlog of work in the offices of the Revenue Commissioners; if so, if there is delay in issuing certificates of tax allowances; and the causes of these delays.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tax Allowance Certificates.
31.
The normal general issue of approximately 700,000 certificates of tax free allowances in respect of persons to whom the PAYE system applies was made before the beginning of the present income tax year. However, a great number of requests for amendments was received from taxpayers within a short period after this general issue and these requests took some time to process.
The consequent arrear of work was temporary and has now been virtually eliminated. Steps are being taken to ensure as far as possible that similar delays do not occur in the future.
Would the Minister not consider taking that matter into consideration in drafting his Budget?
(Cavan): Not another one.
I do not know what Deputy O'Connell means.
Is the Minister not aware that quite a number of people have not yet got their tax free certificates? Would the Minister not agree that the delay is caused by the fact that the income tax offices appear to be grossly understaffed?
I am not aware that there is any substantial number of persons who did not receive their tax free certificates in the first instance. There may be some odd cases but certainly there is no substantial number.
I have made representations on behalf of a very large number of people who have not yet received their tax free certificate and I understand that the main reason for this is understaffing.
That is not correct.
It is not correct?
Will the Minister not write another open letter?
Any time the Deputy likes.
Question No. 32.