Vol. 455 No. 2
15 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Finance the estimated annual loss to the Exchequer arising from the closure of the Irish Press Group in terms of employment taxes, VAT foregone and increased welfare payments to employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11933/95]
22 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Finance the estimated annual loss to the Exchequer arising from the closure of the Irish Press Group in terms of employment taxes, VAT foregone and increased welfare payments to employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11934/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 22 together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that their obligation to observe confidentiality in relation to the taxation affairs of individual taxpayers and small groups of taxpayers precludes them from giving the information requested by the Deputy.
In relation to the increased welfare payments, it is not possible to give exact figures without knowing the personal details of the Irish Press work force. Details such as PRSI record, marital status, family situation and financial circumstances all have a bearing on the type and level of benefit received. However an accepted average cost for unemployment benefit is £3,500 per person per annum.
In any event, the Deputies will appreciate that in view of the appointment of an Examiner by the High Court it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the financial affairs of the companies involved.
