REVENUE HAS SAID it will adopt a “pragmatic approach” for businesses facing cash flow difficulties as ongoing fuel protests continue to disrupt trade across the country.
The tax authority acknowledged that rising fuel costs, compounded by widespread protests and blockades, are putting pressure on businesses’ ability to meet their tax obligations.
Revenue’s Collector-General James Twohig said Revenue is aware that “the rise in fuel and other costs may cause cash flow difficulties for certain individuals and businesses” and that it will work with those affected to help them maintain compliance.
“Rising fuel and other costs have affected businesses in a variety of ways,” Twohig said.
“Revenue acknowledges that it can be a worrying time in terms of the ability to keep an otherwise good tax compliance record on track.”
He added that Revenue “will adopt a pragmatic approach where businesses have been adversely impacted because of rising fuel costs”.
The intervention comes as protests over fuel prices enter their fourth day, with major disruption reported across the country.
Roads including parts of the M50 and Dublin city centre have been blocked, while public transport services have also been affected.
Dozens of petrol stations, particularly in Munster, have run out of fuel, and concerns have been raised about potential knock-on impacts to supply chains, including food, medical supplies and school transport if the protests continue.
Industry groups have warned the situation is already placing severe strain on retailers.
Retail Ireland said yesterday that the disruption has become “a direct threat to the availability of essential goods”, with some stores now reporting empty shelves and staff unable to travel to work.
Twohig said Revenue would engage directly with businesses experiencing difficulties.
“We will work with those affected by rising fuel and other costs to take their financial circumstances and capacity to pay into account,” he said.
He also urged taxpayers to act early if they anticipate problems.
“Continue to send in your tax returns on time, and engage early with us if you run into, or are facing, difficulty in paying your tax,” he said.
“Rather than hope that such payment difficulties will resolve in time, my advice to taxpayers… is to proactively engage with Revenue to agree mutually suitable arrangements.”
Government ministers are due to meet representatives later today as pressure mounts to resolve the crisis, with authorities warning that prolonged disruption could have serious consequences for essential services.