IRD gets funding boost in Budget

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has been given new funding of $13.1 million a year in today's Budget.

Revenue Minister Michael Cullen says the money will improve the department's enforcement capability and to help it recruit and retain staff.

"It is essential to the integrity of the tax system that the public has confidence in IRD's ability to enforce the tax laws," Dr Cullen said.

The increase also made good economic sense as the additional audit and debt collection activities were expected to bring in an extra $77.5 million a year in tax.

"This is revenue which is already legally due the Government and which we can use to advance our social and economic goals," said Dr Cullen.

www.nzherald.co.nz/budget

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