Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
297. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Finance the public consultation process through which members of the public can engage with the newly established Commission on Taxation and Welfare and table issues for its consideration. [22175/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra303. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Finance the proposed membership make-up of the recently launched Commission on Taxation and Welfare; the qualifications required for membership of the Commission; the methodology used for ensuring balance and a broad range of perspectives among members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22353/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 297 and 303 together.
The Commission on Taxation and Welfare is being established to independently consider how best the taxation and welfare systems can support economic activity and promote increased employment and prosperity while ensuring that there are sufficient resources available to meet the costs of the public services and supports in the medium and longer term.
The Commission’s work will have regard to the principles of taxation and welfare policy outlined within the 2020 Programme for Government, including the Government’s commitment to a pro-enterprise policy framework, by providing a stable and sustainable regulatory and tax environment. It will also take account of issues such as, the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic, aging demographics, digital disruption and automation and the long term strategic commitments of Government regarding health, housing, and climate.
The Commission is due to report to the Minister for Finance by 1 July 2022 and will be chaired by Professor Niamh Moloney. Further members will appointed in the coming weeks and I am conscious of the need to ensure that the membership is balanced and brings the necessary expertise to fulfil the objectives of the Commission’s work from relevant areas including taxation, welfare, economics, legal and broader civil society.
On 19 April, I published the terms of reference which sets out the scope of the work of the Commission and the issues they have been tasked with examining. Once appointed, the Commission will consider these terms of reference and develop their work programme for the coming year and determine how they engage with the public. It is expected that such decisions will be publicised in due course.
