Dept: Minister did not ignore whistleblower statement on tax evasion

The Department of Jobs has insisted that Minister Richard Bruton has not ignored allegations of tax evasion raised by a civil servant.

Today's Irish Times reports that the civil servant, Gerry Ryan, submitted a witness statement to Mr Bruton at the request of Gardaí two years ago, but that the statement still has not been passed to Gardaí.

The Department says the statement needs to fulfil certain criteria before it can be sent to Gardaí.

In a statement over the weekend, Minister Bruton said everything contained in the whistleblower's witness statement had already been submitted to the appropriate authorities.

Gardaí say a file on the subject was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions three years ago, but that they will investigate any new information if it emerges.