Devolving further tax powers has potential to deliver for citizens – Murphy

Finance Minister, Conor Murphy has welcomed publication of the independent Fiscal Commission’s interim report which examines the case for additional taxation powers.

Commenting on the report, Minister Murphy said: “The Commission’s interim report identifies a number of taxes which are suitable for devolution in the short-term. More tax powers could enhance local democracy, create more options for funding public services, and equip us with policy levers to deliver our social and economic priorities. I also recognise that more thought needs to be given to how greater local control over taxes would operate in practice.”

The Fiscal Commission will now build on their interim report by exploring in

more detail how the taxation options they’ve presented could be implemented. A final report will be prepared for consideration by an incoming Executive.

The Minister continued: “The Commission’s final report will provide a rigorous evidence base for an incoming Executive to consider additional powers. This has the potential to give us more control over our finances and improve investment in the public services which are most important to people here.”