Should taxpayer information be shared if it helps stop serious crime?
How do you feel about certain Inland Revenue Department (IRD) information being shared with other agencies if it helps prevent serious crime? What are the risks and benefits to society? And what privacy safeguards would you expect to be in place?
The Government is seeking your response to these questions.
You can see the proposals, say what you think and follow the discussion online at http://targetingseriouscrime.ird.govt.nz/
Information could be shared with other government agencies when probable serious crime is uncovered. Proper privacy safeguards (such as those approved by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner) should be in place.
Sharing IRD information could help with investigating crimes like murder, wildlife smuggling, investor fraud and immigration scams.
The consultation process presents five scenarios showing how IRD could share information with other government agencies to tackle serious crime.
Consultation ends on May 21, 2013.
Online Forum
The Online Forum makes it quick and easy for busy people to join the discussion and have their say. You can agree or disagree with the proposals, or post comments and reply to others in just a few minutes. Logging on is easy.
Please visit http://targetingseriouscrime.ird.govt.nz/
Written Opinions
If you have difficulty accessing the internet, you can write to Inland Revenue Policy & Strategy, P O Box 2198 Wellington 6140, or phone IRD on (04) 8901404 and ask for a copy of the ‘Targeting Serious Crime Discussion Document.’
You can post your submission, or email it to targetingseriouscrime@ird.govt.nz
Free Workshops
If you are in business, you may like to attend one of our free tax seminars or workshops held in various parts of the country. Please visit our website for details.
Abdul Rafik is Inland Revenue’s Community Relationships Advisor based in Auckland. He will answer your queries emailed to venkat@indiannewslink.co.nz; Read his article on changes to Student Loans under Educationlink
