The Taoiseach has implied that a portion of the €13 billion windfall from Apple’s tax case may be directed to both housing and infrastructure. The European Union Court of Justice decreed on Tuesday that the tech titan is required to remit €13 billion to Ireland. Simon Harris stated that the ultimate use of the windfall necessitates government discussion, with the aim of allocating it to serve the needs of Ireland in the present and the future.
During a two-day parliamentary meeting of Fine Gael in Tullamore, Harris expressed that the recent judgement offers conclusion to the court’s proceedings. Harris also hinted at the likely allocation of a portion of the windfall. In his opinion, notable areas for consideration include infrastructure and housing. He advised that various suggestions should be curtailed and instead a measured approach by the government be taken concerning the best use of these funds for the benefit of the country’s people and economy.
Harris indicated that transferring the funds to the Exchequer may take some time. Once done, the government would possess several options. However, he stressed that the funds would not be spent on repetitive expenditure as they are a non-recurring income.
Earlier, Darragh O’Brien, the Housing Minister, expressed his support for investing the Apple tax case proceeds in housing and other infrastructural needs. He told Newstalk Breakfast that the government would prudentially discuss and decide the usage of the one-off tax income, which in his opinion should be invested in infrastructure and housing projects.
The Minister explained on Morning Ireland, a RTÉ radio’s show, that while the government was concentrating on the Budget, they had acknowledged the ruling regarding Apple. He further elaborated that the financial benefit from this would be fruitfully invested. The government would consult with its colleagues and consider the most effective use of these funds, which could include an investment in the Climate Fund.
Pondering over Ireland’s relationship with other multinationals in light of the Apple tax ruling, he suggested that the majority understands that the government would like to evaluate the decision thoroughly. He also emphasised the substantial investments already being poured into housing.
From his own viewpoint, the Minister found it logical to consider using the unexpected financial gain to enhance the country’s infrastructure, with housing as a possible area for investment. He highlighted that there has been an unprecedented investment in housing this year by the state. This investment has led to a noticeable improvement in housing, though he was conscious of the remaining significant challenges. This was his commentary on the recent issue of the imposed Apple tax and how it should be consumed.