Tax evasion - Different rules apply to powerful

IF anything is calculated to raise the average person’s hackles, it is the tendency of people in high places, and especially those who commit so-called white collar crime, to escape without incurring the penalties that would come down on lesser mortals like the proverbial ton of bricks.

Tax evasion is a classic case in point. Government figures show only 26 alleged perpetrators appeared before the courts in the last eight years. And this despite a blizzard of tax scandals involving hundreds of millions of euro.

Furthermore, few of those found guilty served time in prison. Even though custodial sentences were imposed in 10 of the cases, seven were suspended meaning the guilty party served no time behind bars.