The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) is to lodge a formal complaint with the European Commission on the Government’s decision to extend the business expansion scheme (BES) and the seed capital scheme.
ICTU economic advisor Paul Sweeeny described the measures - announced in the Budget - as "expanded vehicles for tax avoidance for wealthy people. They are also state aid to the business sector at a time when the economy is booming."
Meanwhile, independent business organisation ISME, has slammed what it calls the "ludicrous" decision by ICTU to make a formal complaint to the EU.
ISME boss Mark Fielding, said the move was "outrageous" and "yet another attempt by Congress to undermine small enterprises and in the process threaten the very viability of the economy".