asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the extent of illegal trading in farm gates (details supplied); the plans, if any, he has to deal with it; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
19.
Written Answers. - Farm Gates Illegal Trading.
15.
asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that illegal trading in farm gates (details supplied) is putting legitimate firms out of business because of the unfair advantage they have in not paying VAT; if these illegal traders are in receipt of unemployment assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 19 together.
It is the policy of the Revenue Commissioners to take all possible steps open to them to counteract evasion and in pursuit of this objective they welcome the submission to them of information of a specific character from any source.
I am advised by the commissioners that the details supplied by the Deputy are not sufficient to enable the allegations of tax evasion resulting from illegal trading activities to be fully investigated. If he would arrange for the supply of specific information, such as the names and addresses of any companies or individuals who might be involved in such activities, the matter will be investigated and corrective action will be taken where appropriate.
The matter of payment of unemployment assistance to those engaged in casual trading is a matter for the Minister for Social Welfare and any specific information in this regard should be directed to him.