1. How often is tax law amended and what are the processes for
such amendments?
In December each year an annual Finance Act is passed by the
Irish Parliament enacting substantive changes to tax law. This
follows a budget statement by the Minister for Finance in October
and a number of weeks of parliamentary debate and amendments. Very
rarely, there may be more than one Finance Act in a calendar
year.
Implementing legislation for relevant EU Directives is usually
passed as part of the annual Finance Act. Other implementing
legislation (regulations or orders) may be issued at other times
throughout the year where authorized under the primary Finance
Act.
Substantive changes to tax law are typically preceded by a
period of public consultation and draft legislation may be released
in advance for public comment and debate.
