IRISH BUSINESS AND EMPLOYERS CONFEDERATION

Site Search :


Advanced Search

IBEC Press Centre

You are here : Home / Press Centre

IBEC Press Centre : Section Index :

Title : Lisbon Reform Treaty secures Ireland’s veto on tax - 04/13/2008

IBEC, the group that represents Irish business, today said that a yes vote for the Lisbon Reform Treaty on Thursday 12 June is a vote to secure Ireland's veto on EU tax decisions and ensure that Ireland remains among one of the most attractive places in the world to invest. The Treaty protects Ireland's ability to set its own corporate tax rates and is a good deal for the economy, for jobs and for Ireland's future. IBEC represents over 7,000 employers nationwide, from the largest multinationals to the smallest SMEs.

IBEC Director of EU and International Affairs Brendan Butler said: "Irish business is fully in favour of the Lisbon Treaty. This should reassure anyone in any doubt, that the Treaty will not have any impact on Ireland's ability to set its own corporate tax rates. The Lisbon Treaty actually clarifies the matter, and sets out in clearer terms than ever before that every country in the EU has a veto over decisions in this area.

“Ireland's attractive corporation tax rate has been one of the reasons why almost 1000 foreign companies have chosen Ireland as a European base. These companies, which provide over 135,000 quality highly-paid jobs, will take great comfort from a positive outcome to the referendum as it means there can be no change in our tax rates without the agreement of the Irish Government. The text of the Treaty is very clear, any proposal on tax must have the unanimous support of all Member States. There is no way our tax system can be changed without our consent.

"One of the main reasons IBEC is calling for a yes vote, is that Ireland's veto on tax issues is secure. This was a significant achievement for Irish negotiators, who very successfully protected national interests in the years of debate that led to the Lisbon Reform Treaty.

"At the same time, the Treaty also introduces much-needed reforms that will enable the EU to work better. These reforms will ensure that the EU can respond quicker to the new challenges ahead, such as energy security, the rise of India and China as economic forces, and climate change. The Treaty will create a more effective, democratic and transparent EU, that works harder, smarter and performs better.

"Each previous Treaty has created new opportunities for Irish business and has helped create more jobs. This Treaty will do the same.

"A defeat for this referendum could only have negative consequences for our economy. If Ireland rejects this Treaty, there is the real fear that the EU would develop in a way that does not suit Ireland and in a way that Ireland will have little control over. At the very least, a rejection of the Treaty would result in a diminution of Ireland's influence at European level. This would raise serious questions about our ability to lobby effectively in the future on key business issues.

"Ireland remains the economic success story of Europe and this Treaty will allow us to do even better. A yes vote will secure Ireland's place in Europe, and is a vote for jobs and the economy." concluded Mr Butler.



Site Index :

Useful Links :


© IBEC