Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2020
106. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Finance if he is considering further Revenue Commissioners extensions, for example, the September deadline for corporation tax returns and the mid-November deadline for personal income tax returns in view of the fact that many professional firms have limited capacity owing to Covid-19 restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11315/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe flexible approach taken by Revenue to debt collection and enforcement activity has provided vital liquidity support to businesses during the COVID-19 crisis.
In this context, Revenue has emphasised the importance of businesses continuing to file tax returns promptly, even in circumstances where they cannot pay the associated liabilities. Revenue has also acknowledged that some businesses may have difficulty in completing accurate returns due to the pandemic and in such circumstances advises that they submit a best estimate, which can be amended at a later date if necessary. This is important to enable both Revenue and my Department to have a clear picture of the portfolio of emerging debt, particularly debt that may be included in the proposed tax ‘debt warehousing’ arrangements that will be provided for in legislation later this year. In relation to ‘debt warehousing’, it will be a condition of that scheme that tax returns are kept up to date.
It is too early to make decisions regarding tax filing deadlines that fall due later in the year as it is not possible to predict the progress of public health measures and their likely impact on professional services. However, I have every confidence that Revenue will make appropriate decisions regarding these deadlines in due course and will continue to support all businesses affected by the pandemic to the greatest extent possible, as has been the case to date.
As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with section 101 of the Ministers and Secretaries (Amendment) Act 2011, the Revenue Commissioners are independent in the performance of their functions under, or for the purpose of, the laws governing the tax code.
