A new HMRC taskforce to investigate tax evasion in the industry has been set up and officers have already targetted eight businesses across the North, including one taxi company in Enniskillen where they lifted business records for examination. 

 

The HMRC Taskforce Co-ordinator in Northern Ireland, Michael Connolly, said: “Tax evasion is a crime that costs society dearly. 

“While over 90 per cent of people play by the rules and pay their dues, our taskforces target areas where we see a risk that people won’t pay what they owe. The public’s help in fighting tax crime is vital, and it can be reported to us on 0800 788 887.”

 

The current taskforce on suspected tax evasion within the taxi industry is the latest in a series of taskforces set up by the HMRC since 2011. Over 100 task forces have been set up to date, bringing in over £400m, and previous industries and areas targetted by the taskforces included health and beauty, and the rich and wealthy. 

 

Prior to 2011 HMRC targetted specific geographic areas, however they now focus on high-risk sectors where there is a risk that some are not paying what they owe. The aim of the taskforces is to raise awareness and increase revenue compliance standards. 

The teams visit businesses to examine their records and carry out other investigations. Their main area of focus is the under-reporting of income. 

 

Taxi operators and drivers in Fermanagh who are not paying what they owe have been warned that, if caught, they face a penalty or even a criminal prosecution.