Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017
468. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has been in contact with EU partners regarding a potential legal challenge to a US border tax proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10162/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraUS President Donald Trump has been publicly quoted since his inauguration in January 2017 as intending to undertake a comprehensive review of the US tax code. However, as yet, no details of a potential reform package have been formally announced by the US Administration. Any reform would have to be agreed by the Administration with both Houses of the US Congress.
In the absence of any detailed proposal by the US authorities, it is not possible to assess the likely effect of a reform, nor the likelihood of a legal challenge. Nevertheless, I availed of the opportunity of my recent visit to Washington DC to explore the prospects of a border adjustment tax with various interlocutors in the US House of Representatives and with business groups.
Our Embassy in Washington DC is closely monitoring this issue, is engaging with the relevant stakeholders – including other EU Embassies - and is keeping the Government informed of developments as the tax reform debate evolves.
