asked the Minister for Finance the criteria used in determining those who will be exempt from the payment of income tax under the provisions of section 2 of the Finance Act, 1969; and if it is intended to amend this Act in any way in the near future.
Written Answers. - Tax Exemption Criteria.
419.
Section 2 of the Finance Act, 1969, provides for exemption from tax of certain earnings from original and creative works in the following categories:—(a) a book or other writings; (b) a play; (c) a musical composition; (d) a painting or other like picture; (e) a sculpture.
Exemption from tax follows a determination by the Revenue Commissioners (after such consultation, as appears necessary, with one or more of the prominent and authoritative bodies in this country concerned with cultural and artistic matters) that (1) the applicant has written composed or executed an original and creative work which is generally recognised as having cultural or artistic merit, or (2) a particular work (or works) submitted by the applicant is original and creative work having cultural or artistic merit.
As regards the second part of the Deputy's question, amendment of the tax code in relation to various reliefs and exemptions may need to be examined in the light of the findings of the Commission on Taxation.