Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 11 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 5

Written Answers. - Banking Sector Regulation.

John Gormley

Ceist:

118 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance when the special unit is being set up to pursue tax compliance of Ansbacher account holders; its brief and powers in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23059/99]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy):

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the special unit to investigate the tax compliance of the Ansbacher account holders and associated persons has already been set up and has been operational since mid-October.

All the powers provided in the Taxes Consolidation Act are available to the investigators whose brief is to investigate all aspects of compliance of the persons concerned, including consideration of prosecution for tax offences where sufficient evidence can be obtained. In addition, any arrears of tax identified together with interest and penalties, where appropriate, will be pursued.