Audit office warns weak VAT checks put millions in public revenue at risk

Serious weaknesses in the way the tax department carries out value added tax audits have exposed the state to potential revenue losses, with years-long delays, inadequate investigations and millions of euros in VAT refunds paid without sufficient verification, according to a special report published by the audit office on Thursday.

The report calls for a major overhaul of the VAT audit system, recommending an annual audit programme based on documented risk criteria, more onsite inspections and...