Coughlan: Govt will oppose any proposals to change corporation tax rate

09/09/2010 - 13:57:17

Tánaiste and Education Minister Mary Coughlan has said that the Government will oppose any plans by the EU which could affect Ireland's low corporation tax rate.

The EU is drawing up proposals to introduce a common consolidated corporate tax base across the 27-member bloc.

Business groups have sharply criticised the plans, saying they will damage investment in Ireland.

But Minister Coughlan said her Government and those of many other member states would vehemently oppose such moves.

"We do not want any interference on the issue of corporation tax," she said. "And there are many other member states who have equally expressed concerns.

"The continuation of 12.5% corporation tax, as alluded to by the Finance Minister, continues to be our policy."

 <-- BACK TO STORY