The Gazette 1991

april

1991

g a z e t t e

about specific areas of the tax when a return in being filed or when a client seeks advice. I know that many tax practitioners spend hours figuring out how to deal w i th s i t u a t i o ns w h i ch are c l ea r ly explained in the video. It is obvious that a familiarity w i th the contents of the video would considerably increase the accuracy of returns filed and dispense w i th wasteful exchanges of correspondence. The bottom line is that your client could lose a considerable amount of money if mistakes are made when filing CAT self assessment returns. The video is an insurance policy which helps to ensure that all aspects are covered and that the tax is correct. I strongly recommend its pur- chase d i r ec t ly f r om t he Law Society.

Video on CAT self assessment I recently wrote to all solicitors about the CAT training video.

The CAT training video is a sens i b le i n v e s t me nt f or any solicitor w i th a probate business. The video alerts the viewer to many of the mistakes being made at present. The video was produced w i th Revenue expertise and is based on practical difficulties encountered by practitioners. A tax deductible outlay of £95 is hardly excessive when the stakes are so high for the client. I have heard that some Bar Associations have bought one video to be shared amongst all members. This is being penny wise and pound foolish. The video programme was not designed to be v i ewed in one s i t t i ng. Each practitioner should have a copy. It is an easily accessible reference source for refreshing knowledge

I mentioned that the intensifica- tion of audit procedures referred to by the Minister for Finance in his budget speech on 30 January, 1991, would necessitate a change of emphasis in the administration of CAT self assessment. In line with the approach adopted for income tax, returns will be accepted as filed, subject to audit. Revenue recognises that this approach places the responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of returns squarely on solicitors and other tax practitioners. During the initial phase of self assessment, Revenue devoted considerable resources to providing advice and assistance to tax practitioners. We will not have the resources in future to provide the same intensive level of support on a continuing basis particularly as the intensification of auditing will require the deployment of staff to this activity. In any event a pro- fessional group such as solicitors should not need such an intensive briefing from the Revenue on a continuing basis now that the initial phase of self as ses sment is complete. This is where the video has an important role. It ensures that soli- citors have a permanent, relevant and very p r ac t i cal source of professional guidance.

Andrew McLaughlin, Manager, CAT Self Assessment Unit, Capita/ Taxes Branch.

Ormond Hotel Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin 7, Ireland SOLICITORS ENTERTAIN YOUR CLIENTS FOR L U N C H AT THE ORMOND HOTEL

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Andrew McLaughlin

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