Dáil Éireann - Volume 471 - 05 November, 1996

Written Answers. - Contributions to Overseas Charities.

Mr. Molloy Mr. Molloy

81. Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Finance the total number of taxpayers estimated to have availed of the scheme allowing taxpayers to make contributions to overseas charities in 1995-96; the gross amount of contributions made under the scheme to charities in 1995-96; the total cost to the Exchequer of the scheme; the names of the charities which have been approved to date to receive contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20306/96]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn) Ruairí Quinn

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn): It is presumed that the question relates to the scheme introduced under section 8 of the Finance Act, 1995, whereby tax relief is provided for donations to certain designated Third World charities. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested is as follows in respect of the income tax year 1995-96:

The following charities have been designated to qualify for the relief to date:

Actionaid Ireland

APSO (Agency for Personal Service Overseas)

Band of Ireland Group Employee's Fund for Third World Aid

Bishop's Appeal Committee

Christian Aid

Concern Worldwide

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem

GOAL

Gorta

Irish National Committee for UNICEF

Oxfam in Ireland

Refugee Trust

SAFE (Support for Afghan Further Education)

Self Help Development International

Trócaire

World Vision of Ireland

156

[156] As one would expect with a new scheme of this nature it will probably take a few years to reach its full potential.

Dáil Éireann 471 Written Answers. Contributions to Overseas Charities.

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