Ireland’s tax revenues hit new heights in 2024, with corporation tax collections reaching €28 billion – an 18% increase from 2023 – alongside an additional €11 billion in Apple back taxes following an EU court ruling.
The country’s total tax take, excluding the Apple payment, reached €97.1 billion, marking a 10% increase and delivering a €1.8 billion surplus. Income tax also showed strong growth, rising 6.6% to €35.1 billion.
Finance Minister Jack Chambers described the figures as showing “solid growth” but cautioned about “clearly identifiable risks on the horizon.” He emphasized the need to focus on improving competitiveness in key areas like energy, water, transport, and housing.
The government has earmarked the €11 billion Apple payment, which came after a Court of Justice of the European Union ruling in September, for infrastructure, housing, and water systems investments.
According to The Journal, total government spending reached €103.7 billion in 2024, up €9 billion from the previous year. Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe highlighted the government’s support for households through various measures, including Christmas bonus payments, cost-of-living supports, and electricity credits.
Donohoe also pointed to “significant progress” in housing delivery, noting a 40% increase in housing, local government, and heritage expenditure compared to 2023, along with substantial capital investment in school building programs.