IDA Ireland CEO Defends the Irish Tax System

The transcript discusses Ireland's tax collection from Apple and the EU Commission's decision to retrospectively apply tax rules, which Ireland finds difficult to rationalize. The EU Commission does not question Ireland's general tax system or corporate tax rate. The discussion also covers global tax avoidance, with a focus on American companies like Apple, Starbucks, and Amazon. Ireland emphasizes its commitment to reducing tax avoidance through participation in international initiatives and changes to its tax system.

What is one of the main reasons Ireland finds the EU Commission's decision difficult to rationalize?

• The decision questions Ireland's general tax system.

• The decision is based on events from 25 years ago.

• The decision supports Ireland's current tax rate.

• The decision was made in collaboration with the US.

Which of the following companies is mentioned as being under scrutiny by the EU Commission?

• Tesla in Spain

• Starbucks in the Netherlands

• Microsoft in Germany

• Google in France

What is the US Treasury's stance on the EU's actions towards American companies?

• The US Treasury believes the EU is overstepping its power.

• The US Treasury collaborates with the EU on these actions.

• The US Treasury supports the EU's actions.

• The US Treasury is indifferent to the EU's actions.

What initiative has Ireland participated in to address tax avoidance?

• The OECD Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Initiative

• The EU Tax Reform Initiative

• The International Tax Fairness Initiative

• The Global Tax Compliance Initiative

What change has Ireland made to prevent the issue of stateless companies?

• Increased corporate tax rate

• Introduced residency rules

• Established a tax-free zone

• Implemented a new tax on digital services