Revenue must inform customers on plans to reopen offices to public – Byrne

The Revenue Commissioners must notify customers about their plans to reopen their offices due to an expected higher demand for services after the budget, according to Fine Gael Senator Maria Byrne.

Senator Byrne, Fine Gael’s Seanad Finance spokesperson, said it is vital that Revenue reopen all public offices to PAYE customers and businesses, as many have remained closed since the onset of Covid.

Senator Byrne said, “Budget 2023 was designed to put more money back in people’s pockets and reduce the bills that people and businesses have to pay, which is so important given the cost of living pressures that everyone is facing.

“The increase in the standard rate cut off point means that an individual can earn up to €40,000, or €80,000 for a couple with two incomes, before having to pay any of their income at a higher rate. There was also a welcome change to the small benefit exemptions, so employers can give up to €1,000 in vouchers or gifts to employees tax free each year.

“The Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) will provide qualifying businesses with up to 40% of the increase in energy or gas bills up to €10,000 per month. This scheme will be administered by Revenue, backdated to September and will run until at least February.

“Inevitably there will be increased demands on the service of the Revenue Commissioners as PAYE customers will have queries on the proposed changes to tax rules. Businesses will also be applying for TBESS and Revenue and will need time to get the systems up and running to administer it.

“I am aware that in-person appointment services are being provided at their offices in Cathedral Street, Dublin 1 and Assumption Road, Cork, and appointments can be booked by calling the appointment helpline on 01 738 3660.

“We need to know if Revenue intend to reopen offices in other counties, closed since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, to deal with a likely increase in the demand for services and queries. Revenue must ensure that there is good coverage geographically for service users in all parts of the country, including my own constituency of Limerick.

“We need a public information campaign here as to when people can expect their local office to open, as PAYE customers and businesses that have been in touch with me are still experiencing long waiting times through the ROS phone line.

“Revenue closed their public offices when Covid restrictions were in place. Other public services and private businesses returned long ago to face-to-face engagement with customers.

“Revenue must do the same as this is necessary for those who have additional needs, cannot access ROS or would prefer to have their query dealt with in person.

“I raised this matter in the Seanad, with Seanad Leader and colleague Regina Doherty and I wrote to Revenue a number of weeks ago to ask if they would reopen their offices.  Disappointingly, no response was forthcoming.

“We need management in Revenue to outline their intentions when it comes to reopening offices. Providing virtual appointments is a welcome development from Revenue but it should coincide with the resumption of the in person public service.”