Government to tell Brussels ‘back off’ from Ireland's 'tax affairs'

The Government will stress that Ireland’s tax affairs are nothing to do with Brussels during a Dáil debate on the €13bn Apple’s tax ruling and that the European Commission must back off.

The issue is set for a 10-hour debate and vote tomorrow. Fianna Fáil last night said it would not seek amendments to the Government motion but other parties will want changes.

Government sources said the debate would be used to send a clear message from Taoiseach Enda Kenny and others to Brussels: “The Taoiseach and ministers will emphasise there have been no broken laws. There will be a recommitment to the 12.5% [corporation tax rate] and a message to Europe that this is none of your business and to back off,” said a Cabinet source.