asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied with the level of response to the tax amnesty announced in the Finance Act, 1986; the numbers of people who applied for this before the closing date of 29 July 1986; if he has received any such requests subsequent to this date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The response to the tax amnesty announced in the budget was disappointing: only 36 persons availed of it. There were no requests to avail of it subsequent to the expiry date.

The fight against tax evaders is being intensified through the expanded special inquiry units in the Revenue, closer co-operation between Revenue and the Department of Social Welfare and the introduction of sheriffs for tax enforcement.