The data used to support the claim that US multinationals operating in Ireland pay an effective tax rate of 2.2% is flawed, according to a leading economist.

Occupying a single floor of a three-storey building in a suburban Dublin office park, Western Union’s offices are notably modest for the international headquarters of the world’s largest money transfer firm.

Apple boss Tim Cook says the company had no special tax deal with the Irish Government, clarifying the confusion created by the US Congress committee report last week, but as far as the European Commission is concerned this is not the end of the matter.

The Department of Finance is calling for international co-operation to tackle tax-dodging corporations but it is refusing to comment on whether or not it is closing the “double Irish” loophole.

Legislation that would force every company with more than 500 workers to declare how much it earns in each country, and how much tax it pays, could have a major effect on Ireland.

Ireland operates two very different tax systems, one for corporate multinationals and a second for smaller companies and individuals, according to Trinity finance professor, Jim Stewart.

TASC - the think tank for action on social change - has welcomed the increases in the old age pension announced in today’s Budget, but criticised the Government's failure to link increases to income in wider society.

Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon is expected to complete his transfer to Sunderland today.

Leather jackets and mohawk hair cuts mixed with tuxedos as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame opened its doors to honour punk rock’s first generation, along with Tom Petty, former teen idol Brenda Lee and Shaft maestro Isaac Hayes.