The Irish Government yesterday announced its budget for
2013. The budget did not contain many provisions of
significance to our international clients. We have summarised
below the main points of relevance for international companies and
financial institutions doing business in and through Ireland.
1. 12.5% corporation tax rate
The Irish Government confirmed that it "remains 100%
committed to maintaining the 12.5% corporation tax
rate." The Minister for Finance remarked that "even
though this commitment has been stated numerous times, it is worth
repeating so that there can be no doubt."
2. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
The Government has announced the future introduction of REITs in
Ireland. The REITs will be listed investment companies, used
to diversify investment in real estate. The REITs will be
exempt from corporation tax on their qualifying profits, and will
have an obligation to distribute the majority of their income each
year. The