Having previously said that a verdict on Apple’s Irish tax arrangements would be announced by Christmas, a new report reveals that an announcement won’t be made until February next year after all.
The reason for the delay is additional supplementary questions sent by E.C. investigators, concerning whether or not Apple potentially underpaid on billions of euros of tax in a so-called “sweetheart” deal. The additional questions may relate to a new line of inquiry in the long-running investigation.
While Apple is one of several multinationals being scrutinized by European legislators, it has the full support of Ireland’s current government, which has said it will take the case to court if a negative decision is reached.
Apple also denies any wrongdoing, with Tim Cook saying in 2013 that, “We have no special deal with the Irish government.” Recently Apple announced that it is creating 1,000 new jobs in Ireland.
Due to the size and scale of Apple, any any fine issued by the European Commission could result in it having to repay billions of euros worth of back-taxes.
Source: FT
