Roundup

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the Irish Government summer legislative programme for 2025 has recently been published by the Dept of the Taoiseach. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has written to the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) setting out its recommendations of how simplification of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards could be achieved.  Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The IFRS Foundation has issued Compilation of Agenda Decisions — Volume 12 which contains all the agenda decisions made by the IFRS Interpretations Committee from November 2024 to April 2025. The IFRS Foundation has published an updated version of its educational material to support the consistent application of IFRS Accounting Standards related to going concern assessments. The FRC has published insights from stakeholders in its discussion paper "Opportunities for Future UK Digital Reporting”. This confirmed stakeholder support for digital reporting and ongoing collaboration between regulators and preparers to reduce complexity. IAASA is seeking feedback on a proposed policy – Publication of Information regarding IAASA’s Corporate Reporting Supervision Activities. This policy paper sets out IAASA’s policy on the publication of the outcomes of its corporate reporting examination activities as well as the nature and extent of information to be published. The proposed changes are open for public comment until Friday, 18 July 2025. In episode 2 of the ‘IAASA Insights’ series, IAASA discuss some key insights from its recent “Profile of the Profession” publication. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has submitted its endorsement advice on IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements to the European Commission. In its submission, EFRAG concluded that IFRS 18 meets the technical criteria for endorsement, is not contrary to the principle of true and fair view and that its adoption would be conducive to the European public good. EFRAG therefore recommended its endorsement. Auditing The FRC invites stakeholders to join an upcoming webinar (Wednesday 4 June, 13:00-14:00) where the ‘International Standard on Auditing for Audits of Financial Statements of Less Complex Entities’ (ISA for LCE) will be discussed. This webinar is part of the FRC’s campaign to support UK SMEs access audit services.   Following the approval of the International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (ISSA) 5000, General Requirements for Sustainability Assurance Engagements the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Boards (IAASB) has approved the withdrawal of International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE) 3410, Assurance Engagements on Greenhouse Gas Statements. The withdrawal of ISAE 3410 will take effect from the effective date of ISSA 5000 which is in 2026. The IAASB has published a new Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to support stakeholders as they implement International Standard on Auditing 570 (Revised 2024), Going Concern. The FAQ document addresses key questions on the enhanced auditor reporting model for going concern that is included in the revised standard. Specifically, it focuses on the implications for the auditor’s report when reporting entity specific going concern matters in a section titled ‘Going Concern’ or ‘Material Uncertainty Related to Going Concern.’ It also provides an illustrative example of an auditor’s report that provides a description of how the auditor evaluated management’s assessment of going concern. Readers should note that these FAQs are on the revised standard issues by the IAASB in 2024.  The standard in effect in Ireland is ISA (Ireland) 570 (Revised October 2019) Insolvency The CCAB-I Insolvency Committee are shortly publishing a guidance document which is a workbook for Creditor Voluntary Liquidations. On 10 June, Derek Wilson, a licensed insolvency practitioner and experienced insolvency monitor, and Sarah-Jane O’Keeffe, director at Azets, along with Chartered Accountants Ireland are hosting a free webinar which will provide an overview of best practice and introduce the new Creditor Voluntary Liquidation workbook. The workbook has been produced to assist Liquidators in complying with legislative and SIP requirements when conducting statutory meetings, reporting to creditors and approval of remuneration. To register for this free webinar, click here. Sustainability The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a Consultation Paper on draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) under the ESG Rating Regulation. The International Sustainability Standard Board (ISSB) has posted the agenda for its next meeting to be held at its offices in Montreal on 15 May 2025.  The ISSB will receive an update on the enhancement of the SASB standards project, in particular with regard to the project activities and the project approach. Accountancy Europe has issued its May 2025 Sustainability update. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has written to the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) setting out its recommendations of how simplification of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards could be achieved. In its response to EFRAG’s public call for input on the matter, GRI has stressed the importance of three key considerations for the simplification process; Europe needs to remain a global leader in promoting the green economy Effective corporate reporting is a key enabler for sustainable development Simplification is welcome – if it is defined, applied and managed well EFRAG has released the event materials from its “VSME in Action: Empowering SMEs for a Sustainable Future” event, which was held on 7th April 2025. EFRAG has also released a series of 10 educational videos focused on the VSME reporting standards. Twenty consumer authorities, including Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission have issued an open letter to the fashion retail sector on the use of environmental claims including advising fashion retailers to avoid vague and general terms. Artificial intelligence We have recently published some webpages on Artificial Intelligence. They are housed in our “Business and Regulation” section of the Technical Hub. The aim of the webpages is to inform members of the European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act, Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 ("EU AI Act"). This includes the scope of the EU AI Act, key dates, risk factors and penalties and a news page for recent news we think readers might be interested in. Readers may be interested in the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) which the Law Society will be running on Artificial Intelligence. The course will run over a period of 5 weeks from 10 June until 8 July. It is free and is open to everyone and anyone who has a general interest in learning more about AI developments. Click to find out more about the MOOC and to register. The Irish Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform has recently published a webpage containing Artificial Intelligence Resources. It contains information on links on a range of resources and practical tools designed to support the adoption of AI in the Public Service. This includes Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service and a tutorial dedicated to the AI Guidelines to assist participants in applying the guidelines in their own workplaces. Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) CBI recently held Spring meetings of its Financial Industry Forum and its three subgroups (Domestic, International and Innovation), facilitating strategic dialogue and engagement across the financial sector. They discussed topics such as CBI’s approach to supervision, its Innovation Sandbox Programme and Innovation Hub, the revised Consumer Protection Code, AI in Financial Services and EU and International policy and regulatory developments. Click for details on the CBI Forum and here for a summary of the discussion of the Financial Industry Forum International Subgroup. The Director of the Horizontal Supervision Directorate of CBI spoke at a recent Anti-Financial Crime Summit on “AML and Innovation – Opportunities and Challenges”. She referred to CBI’s decision last year to evolve its approach to supervision and regulation. To change towards a more integrated approach to supervision and build out a more integrated supervisory framework to look at risk in a more holistic way. She referenced Europol’s 2025 Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment. One of its core points is that AI is “fundamentally reshaping” the organised crime landscape, but CBI’s role is not to eliminate risks, or stymie innovation rather to ensure risks and innovation are appropriately managed. It is important that the threats and opportunities which these new technologies present are reflected in their development, adoption and regulatory supervision and that the use of innovative tools is compatible with international standards of data protection, privacy, and cybersecurity. Other recent CBI publications which may be of interest to readers are its Authorisations and Gatekeeping Report 2024 and Planning for the Transition to Net Zero - Our Perspective. Other news The Irish Companies Registration Office has in recent days announced the creation of the Open Data Portal. This is to comply with EU Open Data Regulations and for users to access essential company information in a clear, intuitive way. Readers can visit the CRO Open Data Portal here. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is seeking views on the future regulation of specific crypto-asset activities, ahead of legislation to bring them within regulation. The Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA) has published its April 2025 Regulatory Digest which highlights key regulatory news and publications delivered for the month. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published its advice to the European Commission (EC) to support the Listing Act's goals to simplify listing requirements and enhance access to public capital markets for EU companies. The Irish Government summer legislative programme for 2025 has recently been published by the Department of the Taoiseach. Click to read the press release on Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Bill which was passed into law in recent days. Its objectives are to ensure sufficient and effective access to Cash in the State; to provide a framework to manage future changes to the cash infrastructure in fair, equitable and transparent manner; and that cash-in-transit providers and independent ATM deployers be registered and supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland. The UK Department for Business and Trade is researching how company directors balance their legal duty to make the business successful, while considering the interests of employees, customers, suppliers, communities and the environment (section 172 of the Companies Act). There are no plans to change these duties, but feedback will help the government to review how the legislation works in practice. The Dept. is seeking a range of views, including those from directors, secretaries, lawyers, accountants, and anyone else who has knowledge and experience of Section 172. Click to read more about the survey which is live until 30 May 2025. The Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA) has recently published its May CEA newsletter. It has many interesting items including several on directors and their duties. Readers can click to subscribe to the CEA newsletter. Click to read the latest IDA News update and the Newsletter (114) of the European Data Protection Supervisor. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.  This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the Central Bank of Ireland has published the annual Financial Conditions of Credit Unions Report which provides an update on the financial performance and position of the sector for the financial year ended 30 September 2024.  The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has released the March edition of its Podcast covering the latest developments in sustainability and financial reporting. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published its annual review of structured digital reporting highlighting key areas for improvement in how UK listed companies present their digital annual reports. The FRC has released two new podcasts in their “in conversation” series. Discussing the FRC’s end-to-end enforcement process review Transforming access to company data The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has released the March edition of its Podcast, covering the latest developments in sustainability and financial reporting. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has announced that it has started its Post-implementation Review of IFRS 16 Leases. The IASB expects to issue a Request for Information (RFI) for this in June 2025. In preparation for this, the UK Endorsement Board has invited preparers who are lessees to complete a survey on the ongoing costs and benefits of applying the standard. EFRAG has called on stakeholders in the field of corporate reporting to participate in the European Commission’s (EC) consultation on the future EU long-term budget. This consultation runs until 6 May. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has released its April 2025 podcast and its Q1 2025 IFRS Interpretations Committee podcast. The CCAB has published an updated draft of its LLP SORP. This will be open for public comment for a 12 week period until 22 July 2025. The draft SORP contains updates which take into account the amendments to FRS 102 following the 2024 periodic review, as well as other factors. Once finalised, it is proposed the SORP would be effective for periods commencing on or after 1 January 2026. Auditing IAASB are consulting on a Proposed Narrow-Scope Amendments to Standards Arising from the IESBA’s Using the Work of an External Expert Project These proposed narrow-scope amendments are aimed at maintaining interoperability between IAASB standards and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’ International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including International Independence Standards) (IESBA Code). Responses are due by 24 July. The targeted amendments focus on the following IAASB standards: ISA 620, Using the Work of an Auditor’s Expert ISRE 2400 (Revised), Engagements to Review Historical Financial Statements ISAE 3000 (Revised), Assurance Engagements Other than Audits or Reviews of Historical Financial Information ISRS 4400 (Revised), Agreed-upon Procedures Engagements IAASA has released its first publication as part of its 2025 AQS Insight Series which focuses on key messages on auditing related parties. IAASA has published its annual Profile of the Profession for 2024.  The Profile of the Profession provides a statistical profile of the five Prescribed Accountancy Bodies (PABs) within IAASA’s supervisory remit. It includes information on members and students, approved statutory auditors and statutory audit firms, and the regulation and monitoring of members, statutory auditors and statutory audit firms. Sustainability EFRAG has submitted its work plan to the European Commission outlining the steps it will take to fulfil the specific mandate received on 27 March 2025 to provide technical advice on the revision and simplification of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). The IFRS Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to promote the adoption and implementation of the ISSB standards across Latin America and the Caribbean. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published Exposure Draft ISSB/ED/2025/1 ‘Amendments to Greenhouse Gas Emissions Disclosures’ with comments requested by 27 June 2025. The ISSB has published a new episode of its “Perspectives on sustainability disclosure” series entitled “Ramping up systems and processes for sustainability data”. Central Bank of Ireland The Central Bank of Ireland has published the annual Financial Conditions of Credit Unions Report, which provides an update on the financial performance and position of the sector for the financial year ended 30 September 2024.   Other news Carmichael, a specialist training and support body for non-profits in Ireland has published its latest Governance Dilemma Newsletter. These newsletters look at a real-life challenge that a Board has faced and consider a range of responses to that challenge. The most recent edition considers the issue of procurement contracts being issued where there is a conflict of interest in place. The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has announced the appointment of Elaine Armstrong, Chief Executive of the Cedar Foundation, as the new independent Chair of its Stakeholder Engagement Forum. The Charities Regulator has issues the latest edition of the Charities Regulator News. In it you will find information including more details on charity financial reporting in Ireland. The news includes information  on the updated  Charities SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice) and details on  a (UK) public consultation on the updated Charities SORP which is now open. The deadline for completion of the consultation is midday, Friday 20th June 2025. It is also noted in the magazine that under changes in the (Irish) Charities (Amendment) Act 2024, accounting regulations will be introduced by the Minister for Rural and Community Development (who is the Minister responsible for charities) that are likely to include the Charities’ SORP. There are also updates in the magazine on trustee recruitment and retention and on the Charities Regulator stakeholder forum. They expect to be able to announce the members of the forum by early May. Accountancy Europe has issued its April 2025 SME Update and Newsletter. The UK Insolvency Service published guidance relating to director disqualification sanctions, which prohibit individuals designated under the UK sanctions regime from acting as, or being involved in the management, promotion or formation of, a company. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.    This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, following public consultation last year IAASA has published a revised Ethical Standard for Auditors (Ireland).  The effective date of the revised standard is for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after 15 December 2026. Early adoption is permitted.  The European Council has approved the Commission's proposal to postpone certain sustainability reporting requirements.  Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below.  Financial Reporting   The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has published its Final Comment Letter on the IFRS Foundation’s Exposure Draft Proposed Amendments to the IFRS Foundation Due Process Handbook.  The IFRS Foundation is hosting episode 9 of its “Perspectives on Sustainability Disclosure” webinar on 24 April.  The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published the key observations from the pilot phase of its actuarial monitoring programme.  The FRC has announced the introduction of a quarterly consultation release schedule. This is intended to provide consistency and clarity for stakeholders as they prepare for and respond to consultations.  The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a Consultation Paper on the new clearing thresholds under the review of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR 3). The consultation will remain open for comments until 16 June which will be followed by a final report and submission of draft technical standards to the European Commission by end 2025.  The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), has published the latest edition of its Spotlight on Markets Newsletter.  The UK Department for Business and Trade has announced the appointment of Paul Lee as the next UK Endorsement Board Chair.  Auditing  Following public consultation last year, IAASA has published a revised Ethical Standard for Auditors (Ireland). The effective date of the revised standard is for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after 15 December 2026. Early adoption is permitted.  The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has released its revised International Standard on Auditing 570 (Revised 2024), Going Concern. The revised standard responds to corporate failures that raised questions regarding auditors’ responsibilities by significantly enhancing the auditor’s work in evaluating management’s assessment of an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The revise standard is effective for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after 15 December 2026.  The IAASB also approved ISA 240 (Revised), The Auditor’s Responsibilities Relating to Fraud in an Audit of Financial Statements. The standard will be effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2026, which is the same effective date as for the revised going concern standard.  The IAASB have also withdrawn ISAE 3410 Assurance Engagements on Greenhouse Gas Statements, once ISSA 5000 on sustainability assurance becomes effective as ISSA 5000 addresses all sustainability assurance engagements, including greenhouse gas-related information.  Sustainability  On 14 April, the European Council approved the European Commission’s proposal to postpone the dates of application of certain sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements. The proposal (often referred to the “Stop the clock” proposal) postpones;  by two years the entry into application of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) requirements for large companies that have not yet started reporting, as well as listed SMEs, and  by one year the transposition deadline and the first phase of the application (covering the largest companies) of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).  Following the approval by the European Council, the legislative act will be published in the EU’s Official Journal. Member States, including Ireland, will be required to transpose the Directive into their national legislation by 31 December 2025.  The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has issued its April 2025 update and podcast.  EFRAG has launched a call for input on the revision of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs) Set 1 with comments requested by 6 May 2025.  The IFRS Foundation and the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) have signed a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ (MoU) to formalise their collaboration.   Following on from the European Commission’s Omnibus Proposals, which seek to reduce the reporting burden on European Companies, Accountancy Europe has issued a statement addressing the ESRS Revision Due Process.  Economic Crime & Anti-money laundering   In April 2025 Accountancy Europe issued its new publication “New EU AML rules: advice for accountancy practitioners”. The document “…outlines concrete steps for accountancy practices, national institutes of accountants, auditors and advisors to take to be ready when the EU anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) legislation takes effect in 2027….”  The European Banking Authority has recently issued its April EBA AML/CFT Newsletter which contains lots of information on AML matters. It includes news on crypto-assets and the EBA consultation on new rules related to the anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism package AMLD6.  The Minister for Justice invites expressions of interest for appointment of ordinary members of the Advisory Council against Economic Crime and Corruption. The Council was established in 2022 following the Hamilton report. It advises and makes proposals on strategic and policy responses and is responsible for developing a multi-annual strategy to combat economic crime and corruption.  The UK National Crime Agency has published its latest SARs in action magazine Issue 31. You can read the SARs magazine from the link here.  Other news  The Institute has recently published a webpage on Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 - Changes in Companies House. The aim of this webpage is to inform members of the recent Companies House identity verification changes and how to register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider.   Following the webinar the Institute hosted with Sean Tierney from the Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA) on 25 March 2025 "Directors’ duties and responsibilities – what you need to know” we have published some of the questions and potential answers which were discussed at the webinar on the Business law and regulation pages on the Technical Hub.  Readers should also note that there are very useful FAQs on the CEA website – cea.gov.ie CEA-FAQs if readers have further questions about company law or the CEA’s work.   The Pensions Authority has published its supervisory activities report for 2024 which details observations and findings identified over the course of 2024.  The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published its Consultation Paper on the remaining Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) for external reviewers under the European Green Bonds Regulation.  On Monday, 7 April 2025 the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) launched its fifth EU-wide stress test for pension schemes (IORPs) which will focus on the impact of adverse market developments on the liquidity position of IORPs.   The European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael Mc Grath recently welcomed the launch of a new set of guidelines for businesses in Ireland. The guidelines focus on what traders must do to uphold consumer rights when selling goods and services, following the introduction of new rules in the Consumer Rights Act 2022. Click the link above to read more about the guides which cover consumer remedies in sale of goods contracts and consumer remedies in service contracts.  The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke has announced government approval to accelerate the development of a new whole-of-government Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity with a suite of measures designed to bolster business resilience and support competitiveness.  For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.       This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.   

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, Accountancy Europe has published its 2024 Annual Report which highlights its key achievements, impacts and insights during the year. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has released its March 2025 podcast hosted by ISSB Chair Emmanuel Faber and Vice-Chair Sue Lloyd discussing the latest developments around the ISSB. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The SORP making body responsible for developing the Charity SORP has launched its public consultation on the next update to the Charity SORP. The update included in the Exposure Draft released includes proposed changes to reflect the amendments made in 2024 to FRS 102 as part of the periodic review of that standard. The consultation period will run until 20 June 2025. Carmichael, a specialist training and support body for nonprofits in Ireland, is hosting a webinar on 15 April to discuss the proposed updates to the SORP, including the implications it may have for charities. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has released its March 2025 update and podcast. The IFRS Foundation has released a recording of its recent event “Disclosures about transition plans”. The IFRS Foundation has published its annual report and audited financial statements for 2024. This highlights some of the achievements made by the organisation in 2024. The IFRS Foundation has released a podcast and webcast to help users understand the changes set out in the third edition of the IFRS for SMEs Accounting Standard. It has also released the March 2025 IFRS for SMEs Accounting Standard Update. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued minor amendments to the FRS 102 and FRS 105 standards. These amendments reflect the recent increase to the UK company size thresholds, which are referred to in both standards. For more information on this please see our recent news item. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has released its February 2025 update and podcast. EFRAG is inviting preparers, users, auditors, regulators and other stakeholders to participate in their upcoming roundtable on 25 April entitled “Practical Considerations of Connecting Financial and Sustainability Reporting”. Accountancy Europe has published its 2024 Annual Report which highlights its key achievements, impacts and insights during the year. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published its 2025/28 Regulatory Strategy and Feedback Statement. UKEB has published its final comment letter in relation to the IASB Exposure Draft Proposed Amendments to the IFRS Foundation Due Process Handbook. Auditing The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published an updated letter regarding its approach to capital restructuring at UK audit firms. Originally issued in September 2024, it provides further clarity on the FRC's position on this area. UKFIU material on anti-money laundering, EU Sanctions Helpdesk The UK FIU has published its 2024 Annual Report. The report covers key statistics around Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) in the Financial Year 2023 to 2024 and includes £240.1million being denied to suspected criminals because of Defence Against Money Laundering (DAML) requests. Click here to read the Report. As part of sector specific SAR Best Practice Workshops, the UKFIU Engagement Team’s April 2025 workshop webinar will be for the Accountancy sector and is scheduled for 29 April 2025 Register here. It is aimed at Money Laundering Reporting Officers (MLROs), Nominated Officers (NOs) or colleagues who write SAR submissions within organisations with AML compliance teams of 5 or less. Finally in UK FIU news, please click to hear a UKFIU podcast with the issue of professional enablers discussed by panellists. A new service, the EU Sanctions Helpdesk has been set up to support European SMEs in complying with sanctions. The service is funded by the European Union. The Helpdesk offers resources and personalised assistance free of charge to companies performing sanctions due diligence checks. It also manages a dedicated website featuring sanctions-related information, events, tips, lessons learned, and more.  Readers can click to read more about the EU Sanctions Helpdesk, Visit the EU Sanctions Helpdesk website, Submit a request to the EU Sanctions Compliance Support Service & read Frequently asked questions and access the Audiovisual Service. Sustainability European Commission Omnibus proposal: The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has issued a statement in which he welcomed proposals by the European Commission to introduce significant changes to the requirements for companies to report on corporate sustainability matters. The Institute previously issued a news item outlining the main changes proposed to the regulations. The European Commission and the European Parliament has recently approved the ‘stop the clock’ proposal which postpones the application of all reporting requirements in the CSRD for companies that are due to report in 2026 and 2027 (so-called wave 2 and 3 companies) and which postpones the transposition deadline and the first wave of application of the CSDDD by one year to 2028. This will now be sent for approval by the European Council. In other news on the Omnibus, Maria Luís Albuquerque, the EU Commissioner for Financial Services and Investments, sent a letter to EFRAG asking for updated recommendations to comply with the current proposal. The letter asks EFRAG to initiate the process to develop technical advice for the modification of the ESRS, including substantially reducing the number of mandatory ESRS datapoints.  EFRAG has until April 15th to draft a workplan with a target completion deadline of October 31st 2025. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published the recording of its eighth 'Perspectives on sustainability disclosure' webinar. The webinar is titled 'The future of integrated reporting and integrated thinking'. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has released its March 2025 podcast hosted by ISSB Chair Emmanuel Faber and ISSB Vice-Chair Sue Lloyd discussing the latest developments around the ISSB. The IFRS Foundation has published a ‘Roadmap Development Tool’, which is intended to support jurisdictions in the planning and the design of their adoption roadmaps for ISSB standards. The IFRS Foundation has released a series of webcasts to support companies in identifying and disclosing material information about sustainability-related risks and opportunities. Central Bank of Ireland In March 2025 the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) published its revised Consumer Protection Code. Please click to access the Central Bank’s page on the Consumer Protection Code 2025. The existing Consumer Protection Code of 2012 continues to apply to regulated firms, and the protections that are currently in place remain effective until the revised Code takes effect on 24 March 2026. Please also click to access the Central Bank's Consumer Code feedback document giving its reasons for its approach to the update Code and click here to read the Central Bank Governor’s opening remarks at the new Code’s launch. In other Central Bank news click to read the Central Bank’s Deputy Governor address to the Institute of Bankers in April 2025 entitled “Shocks and shifts – Regulation and Supervision in a changing world“.Topics she spoke about included the Central Bank’s more integrated approach to supervision and the  regulatory simplification agenda. Finally in CBI news, readers interested in the area of cryptoassets will be interested to read the Central Bank’s Director of Capital Markets & Funds remarks at a Markets in Cryptoassets Regulation (MiCAR) Industry Briefing in March 2025. He considers how CBI thinks about MiCAR and cryptoassets and what it is focusing on in implementing MiCAR: governance and culture, consumer interests and crime and fraud. Other news In the height of AGM season 2025 readers may find useful A&L Goodbody LLP solicitors guide to some of the key themes and issues which may be on the agenda for Irish listed companies this year. Click to read the guide “What’s on the agenda? AGM Season 2025”. Readers may be interested in the recent publication by the  Dept. of Enterprise Trade and Employment (DETE) of the Employment (Contractual Retirement Ages) Bill 2025. When enacted it will deliver a new employment right allowing but in no way compelling an employee to stay in employment until the State Pension Age (66). It will allow workers whose contract has a retirement age of 65 or under to work to State Pension Age of 66, if they so wish. Click here for a DETE press release on the draft legislation. The text has been published of the speech the Pensions Regulator gave to the Irish Association of Pension Funds’ Spring Conference in March 2025. Topics he spoke on include the Pensions Authority’ recent supervisory review activities, it’s plans for the rest of 2025 and its longer-term priorities. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.      This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.    

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the Central Bank of Ireland have issued their Quarterly Bulletin No. 1 2025 which includes commentary on the latest economic and market developments.  The Financial Reporting Council has launched a new public tool designed to improve free access to structured company reporting data. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published its Strategy for 2025-28 and its Annual Business Plan and Budget for 2025-26.  In its response to the IASB’s Exposure Draft IASB/ED/2024/8- Provisions – Targeted Improvements Proposed amendments to IAS 37, the Institute’s Financial Reporting Technical Committee have outlined some areas where the proposed amendments to the IAS 37 standard could be improved. These include; A recommendation that examples are included within Application Guidance to the standard A recommendation that the difference between a “transfer” and “exchange of economic resources” is better explained Concerns regarding the proposed deletion of paragraph 18 of IAS 37 The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has also published its Final Comment Letter and Feedback Statement in response to the same Exposure Draft. The Institute’s Financial Reporting Technical Committee has responded to the Financial Reporting Council’s (FRC’s) Exposure Draft FRED 86 Draft amendments to FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework 2024/25 cycle. The Institute noted its general agreement with the FRC’s proposed changes. The UKEB has published a Draft Endorsement Criteria Assessment (DECA) on the potential use in the UK of the IASB’s Amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 - Contracts Referencing Nature-dependent Electricity. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has published a Feedback Statement on its response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB’s) Exposure Draft- Equity Method of Accounting. The Statement explains how the feedback received was considered by EFRAG in reaching the positions reflected in its final comment letter. The IASB has begun discussions on its next agenda consultation, which will shape its technical strategy and work plan from 2027. It expects to launch a request for information from stakeholders in relation to this in the fourth quarter of 2025. In response to the Government’s changes to UK company size thresholds, due to come into effect from 6 April 2025, the FRC)has released updates to relevant existing publications. The FRC has also published a summary document, outlining the changes to provide clarity for those reporting in line with the updated framework. Auditing Technical Alert 02/2025 – Illustrative Management Representation Letter in respect to the provision of Limited Assurance under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.  TA 02/2025 provides an illustrative example of a management representation letter that may be used by the assurance provider when conducting a limited assurance engagement required under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (“CSRD”) as transposed in Ireland into Part 28 of the Companies Act 2014. IAASA has published its 2024 quality assurance review reports in respect of seven firms that perform statutory audits of public-interest entities (PIEs) in Ireland. The reports summarise IAASA’s inspection of each firm’s internal system of quality management. The reports include any findings and recommendations made by IAASA to the firms regarding these systems. As part of its campaign to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access audit services, the FRC has published the first in its series of supporting materials to help SMEs to engage with the annual audit process effectively and confidently. The summary document provides an introduction to audit standards, setting out the role International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) play in delivering transparent and accountable capital markets, and setting out the process for the development of standards in both the UK and international context. To engage further with the FRC and discuss this important topic, stakeholders can sign-up for roundtables or email stakeholderengagement@frc.org.uk. Anti-money laundering and sanctions Europol’s EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment 2025 (EU-SOCTA 2025) has just been published which is an intelligence-driven report offering insights into how organised crime is changing and its impact on our societies. A press conference to launch the publication took place on Tuesday, 18 March 2025 at the Europol’s headquarters in The Hague, the Netherlands. Sustainability Following on from the recently published Omnibus proposals, the Chair of the Global Sustainability Standards Board has highlighted the short-term pressures that exist to weaken regulations and why now is the time for the EU to show global leadership. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) are holding an event on 7 April entitled “VSME in Action: Empowering SMEs for a Sustainable Future”. The event will look at how the standard can be implemented. EFRAG and the CDP have published correspondence mapping between the CDP question bank and ESRS E1. IFAC has finalised revisions to the International Education Standards. The standards embed sustainability throughout aspiring professional accountants training. IFAC has called on stakeholders to begin preparing for implementation, with early adoption encouraged ahead of the 1 July 2026 effective date. Legislation 2025 The UK Government has published in draft the Companies (Directors' Remuneration and Audit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025. They have not yet been adopted, and that date is currently unknown. If adopted the legislation will repeal most requirements relating to the reporting of directors’ remuneration by quoted companies that were added in 2019 to implement the EU revised Shareholder Rights Directive. Readers can find more information about the changes in the explanatory memorandum to the Companies (Directors’ Remuneration and Audit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 and click here to read a recent news item on the draft corporate reporting regulations. Other news A Policy Paper has recently been issued setting out an outline transition plan for the UK Companies House in relation to the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. The FRC has launched a new public tool designed to improve free access to structured company reporting data. The Central Bank of Ireland have issued their Quarterly Bulletin No. 1 2025.  This Bulletin includes commentary on the latest economic and market developments with regular features on the Domestic Economy and Financial Developments.  A recent significant rise in policy uncertainty is the most striking factor due to the recent negative shift as regards the trade/investment relationship between the EU and US. Companies House (UK) is hosting a webinar on 2 April 2025 which will share helpful information on registering as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. You can register to attend this webinar here.   DETE are holding a Market Access Day 2025 on 9th April in the Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge. Readers can register here. Registration closes at 5pm on 2 April 2025.It is a free event aimed towards companies who may be first-time exporters, companies that may not have operated outside the EU market previously, or those who have encountered trade barriers. Topics will include implementation and enforcement of EU trade policy and its benefits for Irish businesses, available tools for business looking to export outside the EU Single Market, EU trade policy instruments (Access to Markets and Single-Entry Point), Trade barriers and solutions, Trade policy in the changing geopolitics, EU Free Trade Agreements and their concrete benefits to companies, Trade defence instruments. The Dept. of Foreign Affairs recently launched the Communicating Europe Initiative 2025 round. This provides government funding to voluntary organisations, educational bodies and civil society groups and bodies, for projects intended to deepen public awareness of the role that the European Union plays in our daily lives. €400,000 is being made available to eligible applicants and readers can click for more details. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.      This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the European Commission has released its eagerly anticipated ‘Omnibus’ proposal. Meanwhile, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has published amendments to its 'IFRS for SMEs' standard. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued updated “Guidance on the Going Concern Basis of Accounting and Related Reporting”. The guidance brings together various company law requirements, listing rules, codes and standards and serves as a practical guide to assist companies prepare high-quality going concern disclosures. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has issued its February 2025 update and podcast. The IASB has issued a major update to the IFRS for SMEs Accounting Standard. The standard is either required or permitted in 85 jurisdictions. Included in the updated standard (amongst other things) is a revised model for revenue recognition. The update is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2027. The UK Endorsement board is seeking comments and views in relation to the IFRS Foundation’s Proposed Amendments to the Due Process Handbook. Comments are welcomed by 11 March 2025. EFRAG (the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group) is also seeking comments to contribute towards its response to the same project, with comments welcomed by 24 March 2025. EFRAG has published a summary report on its recent event “Financial Reporting: What’s Ahead for 2025”. EFRAG has published its Feedback Statement on the IASB's Exposure Draft on Amendments to IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures. It has also issued a Feedback Statement on the IASB ED Climate-related and Other Uncertainties in the Financial Statements - Proposed illustrative examples. EFRAG are still accepting comments on its Draft Endorsement Advice for IFRS 18 - Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements. Accountancy Europe and IFAC, in a joint statement, have outlined ways in which they will work together to support their members and strengthen the profession. Sustainability Omnibus proposals In its release of the eagerly awaited “Omnibus” proposals on 26 February, the European Commission (EC) has proposed some significant changes to its Sustainability Reporting Regulatory framework. These proposals, if approved, will simplify the sustainability reporting rules that many Irish companies have been preparing for in recent years. The proposals will also remove many companies from a mandatory sustainability reporting regime. The proposals will now enter trialogue negotiations between the European Parliament and the European Council where amendments may be made prior to its introduction. Chartered Accountants Ireland will continue to engage with the relevant bodies, and we will update members on any significant developments. To read more about the proposals, see our recent news item. The Omnibus proposals have attracted a lot of attention since they have been published. Readers may be interested in reading the following. Accountancy Europe’s March 2025 Sustainability Update addresses some of the key changes proposed. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has labelled the decision “a backward step for EU sustainability” and has questioned how this will achieve a climate-neutral EU which is one of the key goals set out in the European Green Deal. The European Funds and Asset Management Association have published this infographic outlining some of the proposals expected from the European Commission in 2025. An IFRS Sustainability Stakeholder event took place on 25 February – Disclosure about transition plans.  The recordings of the various sessions are available to view online. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published the recording of its seventh 'Perspectives on sustainability disclosure' webinar Using the GHG Protocol for climate-related disclosures. Episode 8 ‘The future of integrated reporting and integrated thinking’ will be held on March 20th. The ISSB has issued its February 2025 update and podcast. The GRI has published a series of five case studies of companies reflecting on their journey towards compliance with GRI 101: Biodiversity 2024. Accountancy Europe recently held an online discussion with SMEs and discussed some of their sustainability reporting issues. Legislation 2025 Readers are reminded that new UK company size thresholds for micro, small and medium companies will come into force from 6 April 2025. The Professional Accountancy team has added a new UK company thresholds page to the Technical Hub where you can read more about the changes and access a chart showing the pre and post 6 April 2025 thresholds . Other news The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has published its Annual Mergers and Acquisitions Report 2024, providing details of the mergers and acquisitions notified to, and reviewed by the CCPC, throughout the year. The professional services sector (including legal, accountancy, consultancy, engineering, and veterinary) was the most prominent sector, with 13 merger notifications received. In February 2025 the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI ) published its 2025 Regulatory & Supervisory Outlook report. CBI states that the report sets out the Central Bank’s perspective on the key trends and risks that are shaping the financial sector operating landscape, and its consequent regulatory and supervisory priorities for the next two years. Artificial Intelligence is spotlighted again this year with the Central Bank expecting to be designated as a “Market Surveillance Authority” by the Government as part of a multi-lateral system of AI supervision in Ireland and the EU. Another spotlight is Geopolitical Risks: and the report outlines a Framework for Navigating Heightened Uncertainty. Other topics which may be of interest include the piece on credit unions including Credit Union Sector Key Risks Overview. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has launched a consultation on a revised version of ‘GRI 404: Training and Education 2016' and a new standard titled ‘Working Parents and Caregivers’. The consultation is open until 29 April 2025. Enterprise Ireland recently launched its new five-year strategy, Delivering for Ireland, Leading Globally (2025-2029) which sets out targets to increase jobs and to increase exports, focussing on strengthening skills and talent, funding ambition and embracing sustainability. In episode 12 of its podcast series “The Fast Future”, IFAC look at ways in which SMEs can embrace technology. The Charities Commission for Northern Ireland has released a short video outlining what it means to be a charity trustee. Charities representative body, the Wheel, is encouraging its members to support an initiative being undertaken by the Government’s Anti-Money Laundering Steering Committee, which is aimed at helping to assess the AML risk to the non-profit sector.  Artificial Intelligence (AI) - updates The Irish AI Advisory Council was established in January 2024 to provide independent expert advice to government on artificial intelligence policy. In February 2025 it released its latest report  “Ireland’s AI Advisory Council Recommendations --Helping to Shape Ireland’s AI Future”. One of the areas the report covers is AI Literacy and education. AI literacy is something which readers may be aware Article 4 of the AI Act requires providers and deployers of AI systems to ensure a sufficient level of. The report also calls for government guidelines for use of generative AI and a system to access AI tools. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.    This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the Government has issued its Spring Legislative Programme 2025 the first since the new Government took office.  Chartered Accountants Ireland and ACCA as CCAB-I has prepared Technical Alert TA01-2025 containing some pointers for firms to consider in their use of artificial intelligence (AI). Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting EFRAG, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group, is seeking views from financial statement users on particular aspects of the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB) Exposure Draft Provisions Targeted improvements. EFRAG is also seeking views in relation to when a levy provision should be recognised. EFRAG has prepared a summary report from its conference held on 10 December. The theme of this conference was “Advancing Transparency and Competitiveness in Challenging Times”. EFRAG has published its January 2025 update and podcast. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has announced that it expects to issue the third edition of the IFRS for SMEs Accounting Standard on 27 February. The UK Endorsement Board has announced that it has adopted Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards – Volume 11, which was issued by the IASB in July 2024 The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published the January/February 2025 edition of its “Spotlight on Markets” Newsletter. Auditing The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) have issued the Post-Exposure Consultation: Invitation to Comment Before the IAASB Finalizes the Narrow Scope Amendments to the ISQMs and ISAs as a Result of the Revisions to the Definitions of Listed Entity and Public Interest Entity in the IESBA Code. Accountancy Europe has released its February 2025 Audit Policy Update. Insolvency Readers may find of interest the recent Court of Appeal case in the matter of Joe Miley and Partners (Dublin) Limited (in liquidation) and in the matter of sections 25 and 26 of the Trustee Act 1893.In this case a property was in the name of a partnership as the registered owner. The case was made by the liquidator of Joe Miley and Partners (Dublin) Limited (the Company) that a transfer of the property to the Company had occurred prior to the liquidation and the liquidator claimed the property as a Company asset. The Court of Appeal upheld the claim. The court held that section 26 of the Trustee Act 1893 could be used to vest the property in the Company which is clearly entitled to it. The court was satisfied that the criteria within section 26 is appropriate, and it is the best option available to give effect to the clear agreement between the partnership and the Company, whilst also ensuring the liquidator has this issue fully resolved. The court held that while section 596 of the Companies Act 2014 confers an entitlement upon the liquidator to take company records and provides that any person holding company property without lawful entitlement shall surrender it immediately to the liquidator, this may be of assistance to the liquidator, but the property remains in the name of its registered owner. The judge agreed that reliefs pursuant to the 2014 Act would not have entirely met the difficulties encountered by the liquidator in this case. Instead, the provisions of section 26 of the Trustee Act must be utilised to vest lands in persons shown to be beneficially entitled to them. Anti–money laundering and sanctions The National Crime Agency in the UK has recently issued its first SARs in Action magazine of 2025. It includes an interesting article on an Amber Alert issued by the Joint Money Laundering Intelligence Taskforce in the UK in October 2024. The alert which is not publicly available covers the use of Artificial Intelligence to bypass customer due diligence checks. The magazine also includes an article on the destabilizing of a Russian speaking money laundering network, case studies on SARs and a reply to a reader’s question on NCA response or feedback from the NCA on a submitted SAR. Readers can find out more about being an Authorised Corporate Service Provider or Companies House authorised agent (UK). Registering as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a new requirement that will help Companies House to know who is filing information on the public register. The National Economic Crime Centre has issued its National Economic Crime Centre Annual Report 2023-2024. The UK financial sanctions authority, Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) recently published the first in a series of sector-specific assessments addressing threats and vulnerabilities relating to UK financial sanctions. This report relates to the financial services sector. It states that providers of related professional services, such as accountancy service providers or auditors are included as relevant persons. The report provides an insight into sanctions evasion typologies and areas where there is a higher risk of breaches. Sustainability The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) have confirmed a new partnership enforcing a shared commitment to high-quality sustainability assurance. The International Sustainability Standards Board has released its Q1 2025 Implementation Insights podcast. Irish Government Legislation Programme Spring 2025 The Government has in recent days issued its Spring legislative Programme 2025 the first since the new Government took office. In it there is some business legislation which may be of interest to members. For an in depth look at some of the proposed legislation  please click to read our latest news item on this topic. Other news The Corporate Enforcement Authority’s Director of Legal Michael Dillon recently wrote about directors’ duties. The Companies Act makes clear that the term ‘director’ encompasses anyone ‘occupying the position of director by whatever name called.’ He writes. The focus is on the function they perform, emphasizing ‘substance rather than form’.”. There is no such thing as director lite. The Dept of Enterprise Trade and Employment has recently issued its latest newsletter. News in the bulletin includes information on an European Commission AI webinar (see further below) and the Balance for Better Business 7th Annual Report. Readers can subscribe for the newsletter here. Central Bank of Ireland Governor Gabriel Makhlouf introduced the recent Strategic Foresight Symposium on The Importance of Foresight which took place on Tuesday, 11 February. The Dept of Finance recently published its first National Financial Literacy Strategy. A 5 year strategy, its ultimate mission is stated to be to improve the level of financial literacy in Ireland through a vibrant financial literacy ecosystem. Click for a press release on the strategy and here for the Action Plan. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a consultation on the criteria for the assessment of knowledge and competence of crypto-asset service providers’ (CASPs) staff giving information or advice on crypto-assets or crypto-asset services. The Charities Regulator has recently issued its first newsletter for 2025. Click for articles including an update on the Charities (Amendment) Act 2024 and details of provisions which have now been commenced. Also, read about the Charities Regulator’s plans to introduce a new traffic light system on the Register of Charities that will show more clearly and simply whether or not a charity has submitted its annual report on time. The change is designed to highlight the charities that meet their legal obligations. The European Commission recently published its work programme for 2025. Please click to access the programme and the annexes. There is also a fact sheet explaining the Commission work programme. In its competitiveness compass also recently published, the Commission signposted three planned omnibus packages. Two may be of particular interest to our members. The first one will deal with simplifying sustainability reporting, and the expected publication date is 26 February 2025 though we understand that this date may potentially slip. The other proposal will introduce a definition of small mid-cap companies, and the expected publication date is Q2 2025. Another proposal under “ongoing proposals” which may be of interest is the proposed directive to harmonise certain aspects of insolvency law.  Technical Release TR04-2015 ‘Companies Act 2014 - A statutory auditor’s duty to report to the Corporate Enforcement Authority’ has recently been updated. The updated version is available to members by logging into their member’s account. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has announced the successful signatories to the UK Stewardship Code following the latest round of applications. Accountancy Europe has released its February 2025 SME update. Artificial Intelligence (AI) - updates Please click to read a factsheet produced by Accountancy Europe (AE) in February 2025 entitled The EU AI Act: a guide for SME accountants. The factsheet outlines the key requirements of the EU AI Act, focusing on aspects relevant to SMEs. An accountant, as advisor to an SME or in their own practice may, AE writes, be developing or deploying AI systems. If so, the accountant should carefully familiarise themselves with the AI Act’s requirements, assess whether they are applicable to them, and take any required steps to ensure compliance. Article 4 of the AI Act requires providers and deployers of AI systems to ensure a sufficient level of AI literacy. It entered into application on 2 February 2025.The European AI office invites us to learn more about the approach of the European Union towards Article 4 of the AI Act. Please click to go to the European Commission webpage and to access a recording of a webinar on AI Literacy.  In the first part of the webinar, the EU AI Office focuses on Article 4 of the AI Act and its requirements, presenting the initiatives foreseen to facilitate the implementation of this general provision. In the second part of the webinar, some practices and related learnings are presented in an interactive dialogue between the EU AI Office and AI Pact members. Also on the subject of AI, Chartered Accountants Ireland and ACCA as CCAB-I has prepared Technical Alert TA01-2025 containing some pointers for firms to consider in their use of artificial intelligence (AI). All firms should be considering putting a policy in place whether it’s just to cover basic points of whether your trainees (or other employees) are permitted to use AI in the office or whether you need more extensive provisions. The pointers in the technical alert and links included in it may be of use to members. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.      This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, Technical Alert (TA) 02/2024, which was issued in June 2024, has been updated to reflect the transposition the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (“CSRD”) into Irish legislation and the issue of ISAE (Ireland) 3000 by IAASA.  The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has launched a campaign to assist SMEs with access to audit services and to support their growth aspirations.  Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published the 2025 consolidated UK-adopted international accounting standards on behalf of the UK Government. UKEB has issued a final call for comments on its Draft Comment Letter in response to the IASB’s Exposure Draft Provisions – Targeted Improvements. Comments are welcome until close of business on 10 February 2025. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published a draft three year strategy for 2025-28 detailing its commitment to supporting UK economic growth.  It has also issued a draft Plan and Budget for 2025-26. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) recently released a webcast explaining the amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 regarding power purchase agreements. The webcast explains the targeted amendments to both standards which aim to help companies better report the financial effects of nature-dependent electricity contracts The IASB has released its January 2025 update and podcast. The FRC has launched a campaign to assist SMEs with access to audit services and to support their growth aspirations.   EFRAG, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group, is currently inviting financial statement preparers and users to submit their feedback on the voluntary application of IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures, allowing eligible subsidiaries to prepare reduced disclosures under IFRS Accounting Standards. The feedback will assist EFRAG in performing a cost-benefit analysis of applying the standard. The deadline for submission is 28 February 2025. The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) has recently issued Amendments to IPSAS Standards: Specific IFRIC Interpretations. Auditing Sample Engagement Letter Terms for CSRD Technical Alert (TA) 02/2024 which was issued in June 2024 has been updated to reflect the transposition the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (“CSRD”) into Irish legislation and the issue of ISAE (Ireland) 3000 by IAASA. The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) have launched an integrated effort to support effective implementation of their landmark standards aimed at advancing trust and transparency in sustainability reporting and assurance. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published the final report from its market study into the assurance of sustainability reporting. The 2024 study found that while the UK’s market for the assurance of sustainability reporting is functioning well, there are concerns over quality consistency amid growing demand. The report recommends three key actions; establish a clear UK policy framework; create a unified regulatory regime and improve the calibre of available information on the quality of sustainability assurance to support how the assurance market functions. Insolvency The Insolvency (Amendment) Rules (Northern Ireland) 2024 confirmed that from 10 January 2025 the value of a vehicle disregarded as part of an asset value for a debtor seeking a debt relief order in Northern Ireland will increase from £2,000 to £4,000. Anti–money laundering and sanctions Please join us for Chartered Accountants Ireland free webinar on suspicious transaction reporting at 10AM on 12 February 2025. Accountants in practice, as designated persons under Irish Anti-Money Laundering legislation, have a statutory obligation to report suspicious transactions to both the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of An Garda Síochána and the Irish Revenue Commissioners. Join representatives of both An Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners on Wednesday 12 February as they provide an overview of how to report on the recently updated FIU GoAML system, as well as the Revenue system. This event will be of interest to accountants, trainees and anyone in the firm of a designated person who may come across something suspicious which might raise the obligation to make a suspicious transaction report. Click here to learn more and to book your place today: Suspicious transaction reporting: all you need to know - ..rteredaccountants.ie The Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Ireland Derville Rowland spoke recently on the topic of Innovation and technology in financial crime. She referenced some emerging risks and how the new AMLD 6 package will meet them : the use of AI is acknowledged under the package. Firms must ensure that human oversight is applied to decisions proposed by AI tools that may impact customers in certain areas. Details of Virtual IBANs which are linked to other payment accounts will have to be recorded in member states’ Bank Account Registers to allow law enforcement to trace funds. The concept of Information Sharing Partnerships is introduced. Credit and financial institutions will be enabled to share information relating to high-risk customers, subject to important protections. The Central Bank of Ireland recently published a new Behind the Data (BTD) paper on Irish payment fraud statistics. Click for insights from Irish Payment Fraud Statistics. Sustainability The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) is hosting an event on 25 February 2025 to discuss disclosures about transition plans - IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures.  The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published the final report from its market study into the assurance of sustainability reporting. The GRI Academy has launched a new ESRS Reporting program for all reporters to prepare to navigate the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). In its recent article, the GRI discuss some practices and steps that companies can take to mitigate against the risk of greenwashing. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has released a podcast hosted by ISSB Chair Emmanuel Faber and ISSB Vice-Chair Sue Lloyd discussing the latest developments around the ISSB. In its article entitled “CSRD & CSDDD: key provisions and concepts”, Accountancy Europe look at some of the key features, concepts and differences between the two Directives. The IFRS Foundation has published a guide entitled “Applying IFRS S1 when reporting only climate-related disclosures in accordance with IFRS S2”. This guide is intended to support the implementation of the International Sustainability Reporting Standards Other news The Companies Online Registration Environment (CORE) access was restored on 29 January.  If your Annual Return is late and you have already contacted the Annual Returns section in the CRO they will be in touch with you soon. The Irish Pensions Authority recently published a revised personal retirement savings account (PRSA) code of conduct. The revised code includes additional sections on conflicts of interest, risk warning, and product oversight and governance. PRSA providers must comply with the code from 1 August 2025. The most recent episode of IFAC’s podcast series The Fast Future with IFAC discusses how small and medium sized practices can embrace technology. The FRC hosted a webinar on Monday 3 February for insights into the feedback heard so far during its consultation on proposed revisions to the UK Stewardship Code. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.      This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has published the results of a survey among its members 'International Standards: 2024 Global Adoption Status Snapshot’ including research results on the adoption of IFRSs. EFRAG has released a document that maps the voluntary Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) against the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs). Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has launched a new podcast series dedicated to the forthcoming third edition of the IFRS for SMEs accounting standard. The series discusses some key updates to the standard.  The IASB has released a webcast which explains the proposed targeted improvements to IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets as set out in its recent Exposure Draft. The comment period for this Exposure Draft remains open until 12 March 2025.   EFRAG, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group, is holding an event entitled “Financial Reporting: What’s Ahead for 2025” on 6 February. This event will focus on upcoming changes in the reporting landscape in 2025. EFRAG has published its December 2024 update. This summarises the public technical discussions held, decisions taken, open consultations, future events and vacancies. EFRAG has published its final comment letter on the IASB’s Exposure Draft Equity Method of Accounting IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures. EFRAG has issued its latest Endorsement Status Report. The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has published the results of a survey among its members 'International Standards: 2024 Global Adoption Status Snapshot’ including research results on the adoption of IFRSs. IAASA has published a summary of the outcomes of its 2024 financial report examinations which highlights the various issues IAASA addresses with companies as part of its corporate reporting supervision.  It indicates a strong overall compliance with financial reporting requirements.  The summary lists the financial statement examinations completed in 2024 and the outcomes of those examinations. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published a Draft Endorsement Criteria Assessment on the potential use in the UK of the IASB’s Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards – Volume 11. Auditing The IAASB have published their plans for 2025 which includes approval of the revisions to the Fraud standard and complete the project on Listed and PIE entities.   At their December board meeting the IAASB approved ISA 570 (Revised 2024) Going Concern, which will be effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2026. Anti–money laundering and sanctions Please join us for Chartered Accountants Ireland free webinar on suspicious transaction reporting at 10AM on 12 February 2025. Accountants in practice, as designated persons under Irish Anti-Money Laundering legislation, have a statutory obligation to report suspicious transactions to both the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of An Garda Síochána and the Irish Revenue Commissioners. Join representatives of both An Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners on Wednesday 12 February as they provide an overview of how to report on the recently updated FIU GoAML system, as well as the Revenue system. This event will be of interest to accountants, trainees and anyone in the firm of a designated person who may come across something suspicious which might raise the obligation to make a suspicious transaction report. Click here to learn more and to book your place today: Suspicious transaction reporting: all you need to know - ..rteredaccountants.ie The Joint Practice Group (JPG ) comprising representatives of the professional accountancy bodies, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, Chartered Accountants Ireland, Association of International Accountants, and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants with input from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and FIU Ireland has recently issued a bulletin on payment diversion fraud. Click for more details. Sustainability The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published a thematic review of Climate-related Financial Disclosures by AIM and large private companies, following their first cycle of mandatory reporting in the UK. EFRAG has published a document that maps the voluntary Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) against the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs). Accountancy Europe has set up a tracker that monitors the transposition of the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) across the European Economic Area (EEA). In an interesting article, Accountancy Europe have discussed the European Commission’s efforts to reduce administrative and reporting burdens for European companies. While welcoming the efforts being made, Accountancy Europe have highlighted some concerns as well as some suggestions on how reporting burdens could be reduced. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment hosted a free online event focused on responsible business and the environment on 6 November 2024.  The presentations are now available to download from their website. Legislation The UK’s Public Procurement Act 2023 will be implemented shortly pursuant to the Procurement Act 2023 (Commencement No. 3 and Transitional and Saving Provisions) Regulations 2024. The explanatory notes describe the purpose of the Procurement Act 2023 as to reform the United Kingdom’s public procurement regime following its exit from the European Union, creating a simpler and more transparent system not based on transposed EU Directives. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has published a Transposition Table of EU Directives as of 31 December 2024. Other news The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants has begun a standard-setting project to create a principles-based framework on a firm’s culture and governance. The objective of the project is to develop a culture and governance framework that promotes, supports and reinforces a high standard of ethical behaviour by a firm's leadership, other partners, and staff across all of the firm’s services, thereby helping the firm develop a reputation as a highly ethical firm, mitigate the risks of unethical behaviour and strengthen public trust and confidence in all of its services. Readers may find of interest the High court judicial review case taken by the Irish Registrar of Companies in connection with two companies’ delivery of annual returns to the Companies Registration Office. Under section 343 of Companies Act 2014 a court can make one order (only) to extend the time for filing an annual return. In Registrar Of Companies and Greenway Limited ; Registrar Of Companies and Kitchen Innovations Limited the High Court quashed a decision by the District court where the District Court erroneously granted a second extension of time for filing of  annual returns. With the coming into force of Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) on 17 January 2025, readers may be interested in some DORA related news. Please click to read  an article of January 17th entitled “What do you need to know now that DORA is here?” Also, the Pensions Authority recently published details of how pension schemes subject to the DORA regulation can report major ICT-related incidents and make voluntary reports of significant cyber threats. Readers can find details here. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.      This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the Institute has published new guidance Technical Alert 04/2024 – Sample CSRD Limited Assurance Report in accordance with ISAE (Ireland) 3000 as required by Section 1613 of the Companies Act 2014. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published a Draft Endorsement Criteria Assessment on the potential use in the UK of the International Accounting Standards Board’s ‘Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments’. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting On 10 December, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) held their 2024 conference entitled ‘Advancing Transparency & Competitiveness in Challenging Times’. A recording of this event is now available to view on EFRAG’s website. The body responsible for drafting the next version of the Charity SORP has provided an update on the development of the next version of the standard, which will incorporate the recent changes in UK and Irish GAAP. The SORP making body plan to submit a draft SORP to the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) in January 2025. Once the draft has been approved by the FRC, the draft SORP will be subject to a 12-week consultation period (expected no later than March). The SORP making body have also stated that they expect the updated SORP to be issued in Autumn 2025, with an effective date of 1 January 2026. The FRC is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, 15 January on the topic of recent amendments to FRS 102 to discuss how it will impact UK charities and how they can start preparing for implementation of the updated reporting requirements. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published a Draft Endorsement Criteria Assessment on the potential use in the UK of the International Accounting Standards Board’s Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments. Comments are welcomed by UKEB by 10 January. UKEB has published a draft comment letter for public consultation in response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB) Exposure Draft Provisions – Targeted Improvements. Comments are welcomed by UKEB until 10 February 2025. The UK Government have issued their Government Financial Reporting Manual (FReM) which sets out guidance for preparing government annual reports and accounts in the United Kingdom. Auditing The Institute has published new guidance ‘Technical Alert 04/2024 – Sample CSRD Limited Assurance Report in accordance with ISAE (Ireland) 3000 as required by Section 1613 of the Companies Act 2014’. The Technical Alert has been prepared to assist members reporting on the limited assurance engagements under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (“CSRD”) and in compliance with International Standard on Assurance Engagements (Ireland) 3000 . Anti–money laundering and sanctions In December 2024 the Minister for Justice passed Regulations which from 30 December prescribes crypto asset service providers as a designated person under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing ) Act 2010 and prescribes the Central Bank of Ireland as the competent authority for crypto-asset service providers. Accountancy Europe have issued a factsheet: Navigating the EU Anti-Money Laundering Regulation: Key Issues for the Accountancy Profession on their website. The European Banking Authority latest newsletter was published in the last few weeks. Take a look for a roundup of the last few months and a preview of what lies ahead. Please click to access the EBA AML CFT newsletter here. On 16 December 2024 the European Union adopted its 15th package of sanctions measures. The package includes travel bans and asset freeze measures against natural persons and legal persons, entities, or bodies, updated sectoral sanctions and extension of derogations. Click to read the European Council press release giving details of the 15th package. The derogation in certain circumstances from the prohibition on provision of services including accounting and auditing services (which prohibition exists since the 6th package of sanctions in 2022) has been extended to 31 December 2025. Please click for further details in our news item. Sustainability Accountancy Europe have published a new webpage of FAQs: fundamentals to assurance on sustainability reporting which provides answers to frequently asked questions on sustainability reporting assurance. EFRAG has published an addendum to EFRAG IG 3 ‘ESRS Datapoints’, which is part of EFRAG's non-authoritative implementation guidance on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs).   The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and the We Mean Business Coalition (WMBC), together with the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), have published a report titled ‘Building Trust in Sustainability Reporting and Preparing for Assurance: Governance and Controls for Sustainability Information’. Accounting for Sustainability (A4S) is preparing a series focused on nature to assist accountants and finance professionals in shaping a nature-positive economy that supports long-term value creation. The first guide in the series, The Business Case for Nature, explains why nature is vital to business and offers clear steps and practical tips for developing the business case for your organization. Central Bank of Ireland The Central Bank of Ireland has announced the establishment of a dedicated Fitness and Probity Unit. Other news The Institute has revised the Public Practice Regulations with effect from 1 January 2025. Please click here for a news item on revision of Public Practice Regulations from the Institute’s Professional Standards Department on the amendments. The Institute has revised the CPD Regulations with effect from 1 January 2025. Please click here for a news item on revision of CPD Regulations from the Institute’s Professional Standards Dept. on the changes. In December 2024 the UK Government laid the legislation, the Companies (Accounts and Reports) (Amendment and Transitional Provision) Regulations 2024 before Parliament to increase the monetary size thresholds for micro, small and medium-sized entities. It also removes certain requirements from the Directors’ Report. Please also click to read the explanatory memorandum to the legislation for further insight into the changes. The new monetary size threshold changes are effective from 6 April 2025.                        In conjunction with commencement of Screening of Third Country Transactions Act 2023 on 6 January 2025, the Dept. of Enterprise Trade and Employment has launched an Inward Investment Screening mechanism whereby transactions that meet certain criteria are notified using a new Inward Investment Screening (IIS) online portal, and checked to make sure all is in order before being given the green light to proceed, or to modify or cancel the investment. Please click for all the details on the new system, including access to the new IIS portal. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a Feedback Statement summarising the responses it received to its Consultation Paper (CP) on the securitisation disclosure templates under the Securitisation Regulation (SECR). The International Organisation of Pension Supervisors (IOPS) has launched a public consultation on its draft Revised IOPS Principles of Private Pension Supervision.  The process is due to be closed by 14 February 2025. The Corporate Enforcement Authority have recently issued ‘A graduated response’ which details specific criminal offences and the range of civil enforcement measures available under the Companies Act 2014. For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.    This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.  

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, the Central Bank of Ireland has appointed Mary-Elizabeth McMunn as Deputy Governor, Financial Regulation.  She will take up her role on 1 January 2025.  The International Accounting Standards Board and the International Sustainability Standards Board recently launched a webcast series to discuss how IFRS Accounting Standards and IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards complement each other. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Audit and Assurance The Institute has published new guidance ‘Technical Alert 04/2024 – Sample CSRD Limited Assurance Report in accordance with ISAE (Ireland) 3000 as required by Section 1613 of the Companies Act 2014’. The Technical Alert has been prepared to assist members reporting on the limited assurance engagements under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (“CSRD”) and in compliance with International Standard on Assurance Engagements (Ireland) 3000 . The FRC has published initial feedback on its market study into the audit market for NHS providers and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). Financial Reporting The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) are holding a webinar entitled “How charities can prepare for major amendments to FRS 102 “ which will discuss the impact of the recent amendments to FRS 102 on charities. The FRC has issued FRED 86-Draft amendments to FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework 2024/25 cycle. This proposes some changes to FRS 101 as part of the annual review of the standard. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has announced that it has completed its decision making on the revised IFRS Practice Statement 1 Management Commentary, with an updated Practice Statement expected to be published in the first half of 2025. The IASB has released its IFRS 19 disclosure tracker. This tracker will assist preparers in applying the new standard and maps the disclosure requirements in IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures to their equivalent disclosures in other IFRS Accounting Standards. The IASB has issued its December 2024 update and podcast. Following its exposure draft on Contracts for Renewable Energy earlier this year (to which the Institute issued a response to), the IASB has acted swiftly in issuing targeted amendments to IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures. These amendments are intended to help companies better report the financial effects of nature-dependent electricity contracts, which are often structured as power purchase agreements. The FRC has issued a draft three year strategy for 2025-28 along with a draft Plan and Budget for 2025-26. In its recent podcast, the IFRS Interpretations Committee chair, Bruce McKenzie discussed some of the decisions made at its recent committee meeting held on 26th November. This includes discussions on; Application of IAS 29 to identify when an economy becomes hyperinflationary Expenditure on carbon credits and R&D activities, and whether these meet the requirements in IAS 38 to be recognised as an intangible asset Accountancy Europe has issued its December 2024 Newsletter. EFRAG, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group, has announced that it has completed its due process regarding the Amendments to IFRS Accounting Standards contained in Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards – Volume 11. Following the completion of this due process, it has submitted its Endorsement Advice to the European Commission, recommending the endorsement of the Amendments. EFRAG has published its November 2024 update and have also published an updated Endorsement Status Report, which reflects the publication of the targeted amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 discussed earlier. The IFRS Foundation have published proposed updates to its Due Process Handbook to reflect the creation of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published its Final Comment Letter and Feedback Statement on the IASB’s Exposure Draft on Equity Method of Accounting–IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures The IFRS Foundation’s annual conference will be held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge on 23–24 June 2025 with details to follow in early 2025. Andreas Barckow, Chair of the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), delivered a keynote address at the EFRAG Conference on 10 December. He explained how IFRS Accounting Standards build transparency and trust in financial markets and connect global markets through a common financial language. Sustainability EFRAG has added further non-authoritative technical explanations to its compilation of explanations that are intended to assist stakeholders in the implementation of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs). EFRAG has announced that it has delivered its technical advice on the Voluntary SME (“VSME”) standard to the European Commission. The VSME is designed for undertakings that are not in the mandatory scope of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (‘CSRD’) and the standard aims to replace the current practice of multiple uncoordinated data requests for ESG information with a standardised set of information that stakeholders can use to fulfil their reporting needs. EFRAG has also released some educational videos on the VSME standard. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) recently launched a webcast series to discuss how IFRS Accounting Standards and IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards complement each other.   The ISSB has issued its December 2024 update and podcast. Accountancy Europe has published its December 2024 update. The FRC, in its role as the Secretariat to the UK Sustainability Disclosure Technical Advisory Committee, has published the Committee’s final recommendations to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, recommending endorsement of the first two IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards for use in the UK. The committee has recommended some minor amendments to IFRS S1 and S2, as well as requesting additional guidance to assist with implementation. Anti-money laundering /sanctions The European Commission: Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs, has in recent months issued a report mapping and providing an in-depth analysis of High-risk areas of corruption in the EU The report is described by the Commission as a report to advance the EU’s Anti-Corruption Strategy to combat corruption and reduce its harm to society. It maps high-risk areas and provides an in-depth analysis of the nature of and reasons behind these risks. Artificial Intelligence (AI) The European Commission recently hosted 2 webinars one on November 28 2024 exploring the Architecture of the AI Act and offering participants an in-depth look into the AI Act objectives, its risk-based framework, and the governance mechanisms it introduces, including the central role of the EU AI Office. The event was public and open to everyone. The recording of the webinar and the slides can be accessed here. Second Webinar on the architecture of the AI Act was held on 17 December 2024 where AI Office experts continued exploring the nature of the AI Act to enable its smooth implementation. Click for further details and to access a copy of the recording. Central Bank of Ireland (CBI)  CBI has published - a review of the regulatory framework for credit union lending, and launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the framework. - its latest Q4 2024 Quarterly CBI Bulletin  which contains its projections for the Irish economy. The report headlines steady growth and lower inflation in the Irish economy, but that geo-economic risks are rising. -the first edition of its ‘Investment Funds Supervision Bulletin’. CBI states that the purpose of the Bulletin is to inform industry participants of the Central Bank’s areas of recent and ongoing focus, and to provide an insight into future priorities. It is intended that the Bulletin will complement other forms of industry engagement, and CBI hopes to publish a bulletin of this nature annually. CBI also welcomed the publication this month of the outcome of the OECD review of Central Bank of Ireland’s consumer protection supervisory functions. It had commissioned the OECD to review its supervisory functions against the global standards for financial consumer protection. The OECD assessment found that the Central Bank is strongly committed to fostering and upholding the G20/OECD Principles, which are the international standard for effective and comprehensive financial consumer protection frameworks. It also found that CBI aligns with international standards and that its practices are consistent with peer regulators. Finally in CBI news, CBI has appointed Ms Mary-Elizabeth McMunn as Deputy Governor, Financial Regulation.  She will take up her role on 1 January 2025. Legislation The Dept. of Enterprise Trade &Employment (DETE) has announced that the Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation has signed the Commencement Order for the Screening of Third Country Transactions Act 2023 with all provisions of the Act commencing on 6 January 2025. Readers will find more information on the Act in a news item of  November 2023 on the Screening of Third Country Transactions Act 2023 and details of and a link to draft guidance issued under the Act in our news round up dated 1 March 2024. Other In an interesting and thought provoking piece entitled “10 principles for policymakers to reduce administrative burdens for companies”, Accountancy Europe have shared some recommendations for policymakers to ensure that the expected reforms on simplification and administrative burden reduction are genuine and impactful for businesses. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published a consultation proposing revisions to Technical Actuarial Standard 300: Pensions (TAS 300) to reflect recent developments in pension scheme funding. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) is hosting its conference “Shaping the future of EU capital markets” on 5 February 2025 in Paris, France.  The latest December 2024 newsletter has been issued by the Irish Charities Regulator. It includes links to the Regulator’s overview of the latest charities’ legislation and protecting your charity from cybercrime. Please click here to read the Regulator’s overview of the Charities Amendment Act 2024. Please click to listen to a podcast from Carmichael, the training and support body for non-profits. Here they speak with Director of Civil Enforcement with the Corporate Enforcement Authority Fallon Judge on dealing with compliance with company law. The Director discusses her role in the CEA and the work of the Corporate Enforcement Authority in relation to charities and their directors. Charities with an annual reporting deadline of 31 January 2025 are being encouraged to submit their annual return to the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland on time. The Minister for Trade Promotion, Digital & Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD has appointed Ms Aisling Kennedy as Chairperson of IAASA from 21 December 2024. Aisling is a current member of the board and has broad experience as a company director in a range of areas.   Wishing all of our members a very happy Christmas and all the best for 2025!     This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, Chartered Accountants Ireland has issued its response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB) Exposure Draft ‘Climate-related risks and Other Uncertainties in the Financial Statements’.  The Pensions Authority has published a dedicated website page for information on the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Audit and Assurance IAASA has published Inspection Insight Series 5: International Standard on Quality Management Ireland 1 (ISQM 1). This paper sets out the key requirements for audit firms relating to ISQM1, IAASA’s findings from their quality assurance reviews and areas of good practice noted by IAASA.  The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published its annual report on the quality of major local audits, which also sets out how it will continue to support the local audit system to recover from delays in the publication of audited accounts. The FRC has published its annual Audit Market and Competition Update for 2024. The report shows that in the UK the Big Four audit firms continue to dominate the market earning 98% of FTSE 350 audit fees and 90% of all PIE audit fees. However, challenger audit firms’ share of FT350 audit engagements grew to 13% in 2023. The FRC is evolving its approach to audit market competition, addressing stakeholder concerns such as differences in quality between the largest and smaller audit firms. You can access the report on this link. Earlier this year the FRC published an update to its Ethical Standard for auditors, effective from 15 December 2024. The updated ethical standard simplifies the existing ethical standard and provided additional clarity in a limited number of areas. the new standard takes into account recent revisions made to the international IESBA Code of Ethics. there is a new targeted restriction on fees from entities related by a single controlling party Read more and access the revised standard here. Financial Reporting Chartered Accountants Ireland has issued its response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB) Exposure Draft “Climate-related risks and Other Uncertainties in the Financial Statements”. The Exposure Draft, which proposes eight examples illustrating how entities may apply the requirements in IFRS Accounting Standards to report the effects of climate-related and other uncertainties in its financial statements, was issued by the IASB in July 2024. The UK Endorsement Board has also published its Final Comment Letter and Feedback Statement in response to the same Exposure Draft. EFRAG, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group has published its October 2024 update which summarises public technical discussions and decisions taken during the month. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has updated their suite of factsheets addressing FRS 102. For more information on this please see our news item here. The FRC has published its Annual Review of Corporate Governance Reporting. EFRAG has published its Final Comment Letter on the IASB's Exposure Draft Translation to a Hyperinflationary Presentation Currency - Proposed amendments to IAS 21. EFRAG has published its Final Comment Letter on the IASB's Exposure Draft Amendments to IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures. The UK Endorsement Board has also published its response to this Exposure Draft. EFRAG’s discussion paper “The Statement of Cashflows objectives, usages and issues” has been published, with the objective of listing the perceived issues with cash flow statements presented in accordance with IAS 7. Comments are requested by EFRAG by 15 May 2025. The International Accounting Standards Board has published its November 2024 update and podcast. Insolvency The CCAB-I Insolvency Committee has recently published Technical Alert 03/2024 Succession Planning for Insolvency Practitioners. Insolvency appointments are taken in a personal capacity by an Insolvency Practitioner, who has an obligation to ensure that cases are properly managed at all times, and to have appropriate contingency arrangements in place to cover a change in the Insolvency Practitioner’s circumstances. This Technical Alert maps out a succession plan for an Insolvency Practitioner and covers some of the high-level considerations and discussion points to be considered by Insolvency Practitioners. Sustainability The European Commission has published a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to support stakeholders in the implementation of the EU taxonomy, a classification system for sustainable economic activities. The FAQs provide technical clarifications regarding various elements of the EU taxonomy. Examples of matters included are the application of general taxonomy requirements and technical screening criteria for specific activities included in the Taxonomy Climate and Environmental Delegated Acts and they also address the generic ‘do no significant harm’ (DNSH) criteria that ensure that economic activities contributing to one of the environmental objectives set out in the Taxonomy Regulation do not cause significant harm to any of the other environmental objectives. The 2024 edition of KPMG’s Survey of Sustainability Reporting, which surveyed 5,800 large companies across 58 countries showed that GRI usage has risen to 71%. The survey also identified an increasing prevalence of companies obtaining independent assurance on their sustainability reporting as well as an increase in the number of companies carrying out double materiality assessments, both of which are practices that will soon become mandatory for certain companies in the European Union. A recording of EFRAG’s recent webinar “ESRS for Non-EU Groups” is available to view via the EFRAG website. The IFRS Foundation has published some educational material entitled “Sustainability-related risks and opportunities and the disclosure of material information”. The publication is focussed on helping companies understand how the concept of sustainability-related risks and opportunities is described in IFRS S1 General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information, including how these can arise from a company’s dependencies and impacts. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published its November 2024 update and podcast. As many jurisdictions worldwide make decisions locally regarding whether (or how) they adopt ISSB reporting standards, the IFRS Foundation continues to compile a list of the ongoing and completed Jurisdictional sustainability consultations. This is a useful reference point for anyone trying to establish the reporting requirements of various countries worldwide. The IFRS Foundation has published a recording of its fifth Perspectives on sustainability disclosure webinar which is titled 'The state of assurance for sustainability disclosures'. Accountancy Europe has published its November 2024 Sustainability Update. Digital, Cyber, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Crypto The Pensions Authority has published a dedicated website page for information on the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland Gabriel Makhlouf was invited to speak at a Financial Services Ireland event on 20 November to talk about The Role of Financial Services in the Irish Economy. Legislation You can read our recent news item on the signing and part commencement of the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Act, 2024. We have selected those provisions which we think will be of most interest to our members and have identified what has been commenced on 3 December 2024 and what awaits commencement in 2025. Click to go to the CEA website where you can read about the key changes introduced by this Act which concern the Corporate Enforcement Authority . Other Please click to read the latest from the Corporate Enforcement Authority December newsletter and click here if you want to subscribe to the CEA newsletter. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published its Annual Review of Corporate Governance Reporting 2024, providing important insights as companies prepare to implement the revised UK Corporate Governance Code from January 2025. The Pensions Authority has published information on the Annual Compliance Statement (ACS) for 2024 that is provided for under the Pensions Act.  The form to be used for the ACS is available under Related File(s) on their website with a deadline for completion of 31 January 2025. Accountancy Europe has issued its December 2024 SME update.     This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, Accountancy Europe has issued the latest in its series of publications summarising the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) provisions and sharing views on ESRS aspects that merit further guidance and clarification. Legislation has been signed in Ireland to change the rules regarding the loss of audit exemption in certain circumstances. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Audit and Assurance The IAASB has published the much anticipated ISSA 5000 International Standard on Sustainability Assurance 5000, General Requirements for Sustainability Assurance Engagements.  This standard is a comprehensive, stand-alone standard suitable for any sustainability assurance engagement. It will apply to sustainability information reported across any sustainability topic and prepared under multiple frameworks. The standard is also profession agnostic, supporting its use by professional accountants and non-accountant assurance practitioners. The draft standard was subject to a public consultation in 2023 and Chartered Accountants Ireland's response can be read here. IAASA has recently uploaded the recording of its Audit Committee Briefing 2024 held on 22 October 2024 to its YouTube channel. You can click to view the briefing here. The presenters at the briefing covered the topic of sustainability, including developments in sustainability reporting Q&A, a regulatory update, an audit committee panel session and artificial intelligence for audit committees. The FRC has published the criteria to assess local audit specialist training developed by Recognised Qualifying Bodies (RQBs), training providers and audit firms. Financial Reporting On 1st November, IAASA hosted a conference at Maynooth University entitled ‘Integrating Sustainability Reporting and Assurance into Accounting Education’. Slides from the event are available here. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has launched surveys on the accounting requirements for intangible assets. This includes separate surveys for investors and companies. These will remain open until 30 November 2024. EFRAG has published its draft comment letter on the International Accounting Standards Board’s Exposure Draft on the Equity Method of Accounting. Comments are welcomed by 6 January 2025. In its recent publication entitled “Empowering SMEs through IP: insights and strategies from the ground”, Accountancy Europe discuss the importance of the protection, by SME’s, of their brand and ideas. The Financial Reporting Council has announced the launch of a consultation on Actuarial Standard Technical Memorandum 1 (AS TM1). The 2024 IFRS Foundation Integrated Thinking and Reporting Conference took place on 18 October in Milan. The event convened stakeholders from around the world to discuss the value of integrated reporting. The IFRS have published six takeaways from the event. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has published a consultation aimed at improving the requirements for recognising and measuring provisions on company balance sheets. The consultation proposes changes to IAS 37 and remains open for public comment until 12 March 2025. ESMA, the European Securities and Markets Authority has published the latest edition of its Spotlight on Markets Newsletter. The EFRAG 2024 Conference Advancing Transparency & Competitiveness in Challenging Times is taking place on 10 December 2024 in Brussels and virtually. The FRC has launched its consultation on significant updates to the UK Stewardship Code focusing on supporting economic growth and investment and delivering increased transparency for investors, savers and pensioners in the UK. A webinar will be held by the FRC on 20th November to discuss the proposals. Sustainability Accountancy Europe has issued a series of publications summarising the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) provisions and sharing views on ESRS aspects that merit further guidance and clarification. The most recent in this series covers interoperability. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) are hosting episode five of their webinar series Perspectives on sustainability disclosure on 25 November, which summarises developments and considerations as companies prepare for assurance of sustainability disclosures. A report, which was prepared by the IFRS Foundation and presented to the Financial Stability Board, highlights that over 1,000 companies have referenced the International Sustainability Standards Board in their reports and 30 jurisdictions are making progress towards the introduction of the International Sustainability Standards in their legal frameworks. EFRAG are holding webinars on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) for non-EU groups. These will be held on the 19th and 20th November. EFRAG and CDP, the global independent disclosure system for companies to measure and manage their environmental impacts, have announced that they have achieved extensive commonality between the CDP and ESRS. This follows ongoing collaboration between both organisations on their shared goals. Irish Companies Registration Office Two matters readers should note; the CRO has reminded filers that companies with an ARD of 30 September have a filing deadline of Monday 25 November. Please click to read the CRO reminder on peak filing. Also, the CRO has issued information about its Christmas 2024 Deadlines: applications should be no later than the following dates and all applications will be processed in strict date order.: – Fé Phráinn Online Scheme: 9 December 2024 – Ordinary Online Scheme: 2 December 2024 – Change of Name: 9 December 2024 – Re-registration: 9 December 2024 – Company Name Reservation: 15 December 2024. Economic Crime and anti-money laundering The Failure to Prevent Fraud offence was introduced in section 199 of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). The Act provides that the Secretary of State must issue guidance about procedures before the provisions come into force. This guidance to organisations on the offence of failure to prevent fraud has now been issued (as of 6 November 2024). The guidance states that the offence will come into effect nine months after the publication of this guidance, to allow organisations to develop and implement their fraud prevention procedures. A reminder of what the Failure to Prevent Fraud offence is. The legislation will apply to large organisations where an associate of the organisation commits any of the offences listed in schedule 13 of the ECCTA (for example, cheating the public revenue or false accounting) with the intention of benefitting the organisation and the organisation did not have in place reasonable fraud prevention procedures. The large organisations to which the legislation will apply align with the thresholds in the Companies Act 2006. In short, a large organisation is one satisfying two or more of the following conditions: turnover of more than £36 million; balance sheet total of more than £18 million; or more than 250 employees. Readers should be mindful that there are proposals to uplift the monetary thresholds under company law. Digital, Cyber, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Crypto The European Council this month approved the European Court of Auditors’  Special report 08/2024: EU Artificial intelligence ambition which concluded that stronger governance and increased, more focused investment is essential going forward aiming to strengthen EU’s AI ambitions. Click here for the press release and here for details of the Council’s conclusions on the report. On the domestic front, Ireland’s first National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, 'AI – Here for Good' which was launched in July 2021 has been given a refresh this month. The refresh takes account of the significant developments in AI technology and regulation since the original strategy was published in 2021. Please click to read the press release about some of the new measures which include establishing an AI regulatory sandbox to foster innovation in AI and updating the 2022 study on AI skills of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. Click here to access a copy of the 2024 Refresh. This week Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, published the inaugural National Cyber Security Annual Update 2023, which provides a broad overview of the work that was carried out across Government in 2023. He also launched the NCC-IE Cyber Security Improvement Grant for SMEs, a €2 million fund aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Ireland as they enhance their cybersecurity. You can read more about the grant here. Please click to read remarks by Central Bank Director of Financial Regulation, Policy and Risk Gerry Cross, at a DORA Industry Briefing in November 2024 in which he outlines where they are now in relation to DORA as well as a bit of DORA background. In November 2024 the Minister for Finance gave effect to EU regulation on Markets in Crypto-Assets by enacting SI 607/2024 which designates the Central Bank of Ireland as the National Competent Authority, outlines the administrative penalties and measures for Regulated and non-Regulated Financial Service Providers and specifies the duration of the transition period for firms that provided crypto services before 30 December 2024. Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) Click here to read the CBI Governor’s blog on the Central Bank’s strategy 2024. CBI is holding its Financial System Conference 2024 “Delivering a well-functioning financial system to support a changing economy” on 18 November 2024. In-person registration is closed but readers just about have time to register online.  See details here. It opens with a fireside chat with Paschal Donohoe TD and Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and also has sessions on the Future of Financial Services in Ireland and Europe and the Future of Payments. Legislation Dara Calleary TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, has announced that preparatory work for the commencement of the Screening of Third Country Transactions Act 2023 is nearing completion and it is anticipated that the Act will be commenced in early January 2025. Please click for an Institute news item on the legislation in November 2023 at the time the Act was passed. New Irish Company Law provisions: The President signed the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Bill 2024 into law on 12 November 2024. Provisions which will be of interest to our members were outlined in our news item in March 2024 following publication of the general scheme of the Bill. These include changes in the rules regarding loss of audit exemption, provisions relating to receivers, some new grounds for company strike-off and provisions regarding registered office and electronic filing agents. Following publication of the draft Bill in August 2024 we did a further update on the Bill noting that most but not all of the provisions of the General Scheme had been included in the Bill. Click for the August 2024 updated news item. At the time of writing, publication of the legislation on the Irish Statute Book as passed and details of its commencement into law is awaited and we will provide further updates when information on this is made available. Click here for a statement from the Corporate Enforcement Authority which welcomed the passage of the legislation containing enhancements to existing legislation including for example the extension of the list of competent State bodies with which the CEA can share information. Other The Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, recently published the Prospects 2024-2025 report which highlights 50 projects that make up Project Ireland 2040. This report aims to provide further visibility on Ireland’s priority infrastructure over the coming years, facilitating firms to plan commercial bids for these major infrastructure projects.   This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Technical Roundup 1 November Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, the European Securities and Markets Authority, in its annual European Common Enforcement Priorities Statement for 2024, has highlighted its areas of enforcement focus in 2025.  The Pensions Authority have published updated guidance for determining assumptions used in pension benefit statements, as required under regulation 34(4) of the European Union (Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2021. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The IFRS Foundation has published its 11th Compilation of Agenda Decisions by the IFRS Interpretations Committee. This covers decisions made in the period from May to October 2024. The IFRS Foundation has published its National Standard Setters October 2024 Newsletter. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has issued its October 2024 Newsletter and podcast. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), in its annual European Common Enforcement Priorities (ECEP) Statement for 2024, has highlighted its areas of enforcement focus in 2025. This includes some areas of focus under the topics of financial statements, sustainability statements and ESEF reporting. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a survey on legal entities identifiers, aiming to gather evidence on the impacts of including alternatives for reporting or record keeping requirements. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) is calling for technical experts in accounting and financial reporting to join its Financial Reporting Technical Expert Group which provides technical advice to the EFRAG Financial Reporting Board. The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board has issued Exposure Draft (ED) 92, Tangible Natural Resources which is open for public comment until 28 February 2025. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published its two annual reports covering the year to 31 March 2024, including its report to the Secretary of State and its report to the FRC. UKEB has issued its Draft Comment letter on the IASB’s Exposure Draft — Equity Method of Accounting—IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures. This letter is open for public comment until 20 November 2024. UKEB has also published a Draft Endorsement Criteria Assessment (DECA) on the potential use in the UK of the IASB’s Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards – Volume 11. Accountancy Europe has issued its October 2024 Newsletter. The IASB has released a podcast hosted by Executive Technical Director Nili Shah featuring IASB Vice-Chair Linda Mezon-Hutter and IASB Member Bruce Mackenzie discussing the deliberations held during the October 2024 IASB meeting. Sustainability On 6th November, Chartered Accountants Ireland will host a free, 1 hour webinar on the CSRD. This will be the final webinar in our three-part series covering the CSRD. In this webinar, Derarca Dennis, Partner, EY and Chartered Accountants Ireland's Deirdre Moran will review some of the practical challenges that companies have faced in preparing to comply with the CSRD, matters to consider when developing and implementing a sustainability strategy, and the role of the Board. The Executive Committee of the World Economic Forum (WEF) and the International Business Council (IBC) have published a statement in which they welcome the progress towards establishing a global baseline of consistent and comparable sustainability information based on the ISSB standards. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has released a podcast hosted by ISSB Chair Emmanuel Faber and ISSB Vice-Chair Sue Lloyd discussing the latest developments around the ISSB. In its recently published article on Medium, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) discuss why, as greenwashing scrutiny intensifies, legal teams must safeguard ESG integrity across all claims Accountancy Europe has issued its October 2024 Sustainability update. Economic Crime and anti-money laundering The Advisory Council against Economic Crime and Corruption was established by Government in 2022. The Irish Dept of Justice launched a consultation in October 2024 on developing a strategy for the Advisory Council to combat Economic Crime and Corruption. They are seeking the public’s views on what should be addressed in the strategy to combat economic crime and corruption. In October 2024 and to mark Anti-Slavery Week 2024, the National Crime Agency in the UK announced a Private Public Partnership to tackle sexual exploitation. The NCA announced that 31 financial institutions, law enforcement agencies and government departments have joined forces to tackle sexual exploitation. Click here to read more. Click to read the latest SARs in action from the UKFIU. It includes a feature on the Egmont Group of FIUs which works to enhance member capabilities and to improve secure information sharing, training, and best practice internationally. The magazine also provides information on The Joint Money Laundering Intelligence Taskforce where the Public Private Cryptoasset Forum has been developed as a new threat group within JMLIT+, with the intention of building links with the UK registered and regulated Cryptoasset industry, identifying opportunities for partnership and bringing members of the industry further into partnership work. The Institute’s Professional Standards Dept. has published its AML Supervision Report 2023/2024 which summarises AML supervisory activities in both jurisdictions, ROI and UK for the period April 2023 – April 2024. Please see the report for case studies on AML including deficiencies identified and how they were rectified. The report identifies emerging risks including crypto currency, the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence and the continued potential for post-Covid fraud. Issues arising from the Ukraine crisis also remain in focus. The report examines what compliant means and most common findings on monitoring visits and desk-based reviews. Other Richard Moriarty reflects on his first year leading the FRC in an 'In Conversation' podcast episode, hosted by Kate O'Neill, Director of Stakeholder Engagement and Corporate Affairs. Accountancy Europe is promoting the topic of the attractiveness of the accountancy profession through online campaigns, events and blog articles. A recent online story is regarding the work done by the Norwegian Institute of Public Accountants (NIPA) to improve the image of auditors and attract new talent. The Corporate Enforcement Authority held its second annual conference on Thu 17 October. Representatives from our technical team attended and please click to read a summary of the discussions at the conference some of which might be of interest to our readers. Click here to go to the CEA pages where you can find copies of slides and speeches made available after the event. Readers may be interested in the October 2024 UK judgment in the case of  Standard Chartered Plc and others. Upon the cessation of publication of LIBOR, the issue in the case was whether a replacement rate to LIBOR should be implied in a legacy contract. The court implied a term into the contract for a replacement rate and held that an implied term that shares should be redeemed and the contract unwound was untenable. Click to read an interview on the European Commission website with Mairead McGuinness European Commissioner for Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union on her mandate, where she thinks most progress was made, and how she sees the future of finance. The Pensions Authority have published updated guidance for determining assumptions used in pension benefit statements, as required under regulation 34(4) of the European Union (Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2021. Charity Trustees’ Week takes place on 11 to 15 November this year to thank trustees across Ireland for their important work in the area of governance and leadership of charities. It is organised in partnership by the Charities Regulator, Boardmatch Ireland, Carmichael, Charities Institute Ireland, Dóchas, Pobal, The Wheel, and Volunteer Ireland.  Click here for further details. Jonathan Reynolds, the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, issued a statement on 14 October to announce the publication of a green paper  which outlines plans to deliver Invest 2035: The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy. He also announced proposed changes to company law. Click for the announcement which proposes changes by year end to reporting requirements and uplift the monetary size thresholds for micro-entities, small and medium-sized companies, as well as making technical fixes to the UK’s audit framework. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment will be hosting a free online event focused on responsible business and the environment at 11am on Wednesday, 6 November 2024. Click for IDA insights article on “What makes Ireland an extraordinary partner for leading global companies” In news on the Funds sector, the Minister for Finance this month published the Report of the Funds Sector 2030 (Review). The review examined Ireland’s funds sector framework to ensure it is up-to-date, taking account of the significant developments in recent years, to support the long term growth in the sector in Ireland. It concluded that Ireland is well placed to grow in the funds and asset management sector. The review also developed a set of recommendations to address the most material issues and to put in place measures that will help navigate the further changes that are coming in a controlled way. Also in Funds news, click to read remarks by Central Bank of Ireland Deputy Governor Derville Rowland “Past, present and future of Exchange Traded Funds’ at an event in October 2024 on Unlocking the Potential for Europe and Ireland. The FCA has published the results of a survey to better understand how firms record and manage allegations of non-financial misconduct. The survey of over 1,000 investment banks, brokers and wholesale insurance firms found that the number of allegations reported increased between 2021 and 2023. In the UK, Companies House has outlined its transition plan for Companies House in relation to the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (the Act). The Act will reform the role of Companies House and improve transparency over UK companies and other legal entities. There were certain changes implemented in March 2024 with the next wave of anticipated in winter 2024 and into 2025 as follows: Companies House should be able to: expedite the striking off of companies where the registrar has concluded the company has been formed for a false basis. annotate the register in a wider range of circumstances, such as when a company has a director who has been disqualified but has yet to terminate their appointment on the register, or where Companies House has issued a statutory notice to require more information from a person, but the matter remains unresolved. The transition plan is available here along with our information booklet on the changes already implemented available here.   This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, IAASA has issued its annual Observations paper highlighting matters that management, audit committees and auditors should consider when preparing, approving and auditing financial statements for 2024 year-end dates. The European Securities and Markets Authority has published Clearing the smog: Accounting for Carbon Allowances in Financial Statements which aims at improving financial reporting for issuers engaging in carbon allowance programmes. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has released its September 2024 Update. This report summarises the public technical discussions held and decisions taken by EFRAG in September. EFRAG is seeking feedback on its assessment of the Annual Improvements to IFRS Accounting Standards-Volume 11. This assessment is based on the EU's technical endorsement criteria and their alignment with the European public good. The Deadline for comments is 22 November 2024. EFRAG has submitted its Endorsement Advice on Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments (Amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7) to the European Commission. In its submission, EFRAG has assessed that the Amendments meet all technical endorsement criteria of the IAS Regulation and are conducive to the European public good. It therefore recommends endorsement of the Amendments. EFRAG has published its Feedback Statement on the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB) Exposure Draft ED/2024/1 Business Combinations—Disclosures, Goodwill and Impairment (Proposed amendments to IFRS 3 and IAS 36) The FRC are hosting an upcoming webinar on the key changes in the revised UK Corporate Governance Code ahead of its first reporting cycle (beginning 1 January 2025). The event takes place on 24 October 2024. The Q3 2024 IFRS Interpretations Committee podcast is now available. This podcast focusses on guarantees issued on obligations from other entities and recognition of revenue from tuition fees in accordance with IFRS 15 Revenue from contracts with customers. The IASB is consulting on proposed amendments aimed at helping companies to account for their investments in associates and joint ventures.  A webcast series has been launched to take a detailed look into these proposed amendments. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published revised Technical Actuarial Guidance: Models, to support the growing use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) techniques in actuarial work. Assurance and Auditing IAASA has published its annual Observations paper highlighting matters that management, audit committees and auditors should consider when preparing, approving and auditing financial statements for 2024 year end dates. The FRC have announced that all four big firms in the UK have met the 2024 deadline set by the FRC to implement the principles of operational separation. Sustainability The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published 'Clearing the smog: Accounting for Carbon Allowances in Financial Statements' which aims at improving financial reporting for issuers engaging in carbon allowance programmes. ESMA has also recently issued the 2024 EU Carbon Markets report.  The fourth episode of the IFRS Sustainability webinar series, ‘Perspectives on Sustainability Disclosure’, took place on 17 October 2024 with a focus on the Pan-African approach to sustainability disclosure. The Financial Reporting Council has published initial feedback on its market study into assurance of sustainability reporting. Amongst other findings, the study found that “while currently most UK companies reported having sufficient choice of provider of assurance, some raised concerns that the market may begin to consolidate around the largest UK audit firms”. Other The annual reporting deadline for NI charities is coming up at the end of the month.  The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is encouraging anyone with a query around reporting to get in touch. The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment is seeking nominees as representatives of expert, technical, legal, government and regulatory bodies. Also sought are expressions of interest from suitably qualified candidates for appointment to one of the six Ministerial nominations to the Employment Law Review Group (ELRG).  Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA has been named to succeed Barry Melancon in January 2025 as Chief Executive Officer of the AICPA & CIMA.   This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, the Minister for Finance has signed a statutory instrument commencing further provisions of the Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023 (2023 Act) on 30 September 2024.  The Financial Reporting Council has released the 22nd edition of its Key Facts and Trends report, offering a comprehensive overview of the UK accountancy and audit landscape.  Just as this newsletter has been published, we have received confirmation that the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment has signed into law S.I. No 498 of 2024 The European Union (Corporate Sustainability Reporting)(No. 2) Regulations 2024. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has issued its September 2024 update and podcast. The IASB has issued a Debrief of their 2024 World Standard-setters Conference, which was held in London on 23-24 September. More than 130 delegates from 70 countries were represented at this event. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has published an Exposure Draft Due Process Procedures for the EFRAG Financial Reporting Activities. This aims to formalise the existing due process applied for its financial reporting activities. EFRAG is calling for technical experts in accounting and financial reporting to join its Financial Reporting Technical Expert Group (EFRAG FR TEG). EFRAG has issued a draft comment letter on the IASB’s Exposure Draft on Climate Related and Other Uncertainties in the Financial Statements. Comments are welcomed by 15 November 2024. EFRAG has also issued a draft comment letter on the IASB’s Exposure Draft Amendments to IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability. Comments are welcomed by 13 November 2024. The UK Endorsement Board has also issued draft comment letters to the above mentioned exposure drafts, with comments welcomed by 11th November for both. The IASB have released a webcast on its Climate-related and Other Uncertainties in the Financial Statements Exposure Draft. The webcast covers the project's background, key research findings and an overview of the illustrative examples that the IASB developed in response to strong demand from stakeholders, particularly investors. The UK Endorsement Board has published a Draft Endorsement Criteria Assessment on the potential use in the UK of the IASB’s Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments. Comments are welcomed by 10 January 2025. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published its Annual Review of Corporate Reporting setting out the findings of its monitoring of UK companies’ annual report and accounts alongside its expectations for the upcoming reporting season. The FRC has released the 22nd edition of its Key Facts and Trends report, offering a comprehensive overview of the UK accountancy and audit landscape. The FRC are running an online survey to obtain preparers’ views on FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework. The aim of this research is to gather feedback from groups of companies that include entities eligible to apply FRS 101 in preparing their financial statements (whether or not they choose to do so). The survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete and will provide a valuable contribution to the ongoing development of the standard. The survey will remain open until 31 October. The European Securities & Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published its 2025 Annual Work Programme (AWP). Accountancy Europe has published its September 2024 Newsletter The September 2024 IFRS for SMEs Accounting Standard Update has been published which discusses news, events and other information about the standard. The IASB has announced that it has concluded its Post-implementation review of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers, finding that the Standard is working as intended and providing investors with useful information. The IASB noted that it has identified a few application issues to consider in its next agenda consultation, which it plans to start in late 2025. The Financial Reporting Council has published version 2.0 of Technical Actuarial Standard 200 (TAS 200). Assurance and Auditing ISAE (Ireland) 3000 Assurance Engagements Other Than Audits or Reviews of Historical Financial Information – Assurance of Sustainability Reporting in Ireland. IAASA has adopted ISAE (Ireland) 3000 be applied by auditors performing sustainability assurance engagements required by the European Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). ISAE (Ireland) 3000 applies to assurance reports issued on or after 15 December 2024. Limited amendments have been made to the international standard to ensure that it applies to sustainability assurance in engagements in Ireland and that sustainability assurance providers are subject to appropriate ethical and quality management requirements. This new standard requires auditors to comply with ISQM (Ireland) 1, Quality Management for Firms that Perform Audits or Reviews of Financial Statements, or Other Assurance or Related Services Engagements therefore IAASA has updated ISQM (Ireland) 1 to reflect the requirements of the CSRD as transposed in Ireland. Additional minor amendments were made to ISQM (Ireland) 1 to make conforming amendments for ISA (Ireland) 600, which was revised in February 2023 and is effective for financial periods starting on or after 15 December 2023. IAASA has updated the auditing standards to reflect the conforming amendments required due to the revision of ISA (Ireland) 600, Audits of Group Financial Statements (Including the Work of Component Auditors) in February 2023. The revised standard is effective for financial periods beginning on or after 15 December 2023. The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has announced the adoption of a new Technology Position. This will guide how the IAASB adapts its work to embrace the intersection of audit, assurance, and technology. The Position is structured around three key components: Technology Position Statement - IAASB’s commitment to facilitate and encourage the use of technology by practitioners and firms, ensuring the standards remain relevant and effective. Operationalizing the Technology Position - IAASB’s strategy for implementing the Statement by identifying opportunities for new or revised standards, along with developing non-authoritative materials and guidance. Monitoring and Adapting to Technological Trends - IAASB will continually monitor technological trends to ensure its standards are adapted and remain aligned with the rapidly changing landscape. The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has released a comprehensive adoption guide designed to help jurisdictions adopt the ISA for LCE, an alternative to the full suite of International Standards on Auditing. The guide provides valuable insights into the adoption process, highlighting common steps and successful approaches, while also addressing potential challenges. The guide also outlines steps for legislative, regulatory, or relevant local bodies with standard-setting authority to allow practitioners to use the ISA for LCE.  ISA for LCE is not currently adopted in Ireland and the UK. Sustainability The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment has signed into law S.I. No 498 of 2024 The European Union (Corporate Sustainability Reporting)(No. 2) Regulations 2024. Following the signing into law of S.I No 336 European Union (Corporate Sustainability Reporting) Regulations 2024 in July 2024, many organisations, including the Institute, have engaged with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment regarding the wording of the legislation, which many felt contained significant application challenges. While this legislation is not available at the time of publication of this newsletter, we hope that the new legislation will address these challenges which will hopefully provide clarity for companies as they begin their journey of reporting under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. We will keep members up to date when the legislation is published. Accountancy Europe has issued its September 2024 Sustainability Update. The update includes details of Accountancy Europe’s new factsheet on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Sue Lloyd, Vice-Chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board, spoke at the World Standard-setters Conference in London on 23 September 2024.  The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has issued its September 2024 Update and podcast, summarising their September 2024 meeting. The IFRS Foundation has published a guide entitled Voluntarily applying ISSB Standards — A guide for preparers. The guide aims to support companies as they start to apply ISSB Standards voluntarily as well as helping them communicate their progress to investors. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), along with the World Benchmarking Alliance, has published How to strengthen corporate accountability: The case for unlocking sustainable corporate performance through mandatory corporate reporting. The publication explores the link between the use of the GRI Standards and companies' social performance, as measured by WBA's Core Social Indicators. Other The Minister for Finance has signed a statutory instrument commencing further provisions of the Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023 (2023 Act) on 30 September 2024. The provisions have now been fully commenced whereby a credit union can agree to participate in a loan to a member of another credit union, referral of members of one credit union to another credit union (where the rules permit) and the obligations which heretofore were annual, to approve, review, and update plans policies and procedures are now to be carried out every three years. Also, environmental social and governance policy is now included as a policy for the board to approve, review and update at least every 3 years. Some provisions remain to be enacted such as the provisions regarding corporate credit unions introduced in the 2023 Act. Readers are reminded that there is a resource page on credit unions on the Institute’s Technical Hub where you will find further information on these new provisions and other useful information on credit unions including auditing and Central Bank information. Accountancy Europe has published its September 2024 SME Update. The Decision Support Service (DSS) is seeking suitable candidates to join the decision support service panel of decision-making representatives. The DSS proposes to expand the Panel due to increasing requests from the Circuit Court and the Wardship Court for nominations. The closing date for applications is 14 October at 12pm and more information is available here - https://www.dsspanelrecruitment.com/. Euronext Dublin has published the Irish Corporate Governance Code. An important step in the development of corporate governance in Ireland, the new Code applies to financial years commencing on or after 1 January 2025 for Irish incorporated companies with an equity listing on Euronext Dublin (Irish Stock Exchange). Companies dual-listed in Ireland and the UK have the option to follow the Irish Code or the UK Corporate Governance Code. The Irish Pensions Authority has published a consultation on a draft revised code of conduct for personal retirement savings account providers. The revised code raises the standard of conduct required of PRSA providers when facilitating unregulated investments. The revised code also aims to better inform PRSA contributors about the risks of unregulated investments. The closing date for submissions to the consultation process is 1 November 2024.  In other pensions news the Irish Pensions Authority has issued its annual report and accounts 2023. Click also to read the Pensions Regulator’s annual report 2023 statement. With draft legislation published in July 2024 to adopt a significantly increased cybersecurity preparedness and incident reporting regime in the Heads of Bill of the National Cyber Security Bill, readers may be interested to read more about grant assistance funded by the EU and announced by Enterprise Ireland to assist businesses with cyber security. The Cyber Security Review Grant will assist SMEs to take steps to review and update their online security measures to mitigate against the risk of cyber-attacks.  Click also to read an article by the IDA on what makes Ireland a hotbed for cybersecurity talent.  Click for a fact sheet from the European Data Protection Supervisor called Don't open the floodgates to your personal information The 17th of October is National Women’s Enterprise Day. Click here to read more about the initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices. There are 14 events lined up across the country that will see some of Ireland’s best female entrepreneurs and businesswomen share their stories of challenges and success. You can also click here for more information and registration.   This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Roundup 20 September 2024 Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. In developments since the last edition, the International Accounting Standards Board has announced the start of a research project to review and improve the requirements for the statement of cash flows and related matters in IFRS Accounting Standards. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has recently confirmed changes to the procedure for notifying the Minister of proposed collective redundancies, pursuant to section 12 of the Protection of Employment Act 1977. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published new September 2024 editions of UK and Irish financial reporting standards. These standards consolidate all recent amendments to the standards, including the amendments arising from the recent periodic review of the standards. The following September 2024 publications are included on the FRC website. Overview of the financial reporting framework FRS 100 Application of Financial Reporting Requirements FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland FRS 103 Insurance Contracts Implementation Guidance to accompany FRS 103 Insurance Contracts FRS 104 Interim Reporting FRS 105 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable to the Micro-entities Regime The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has issued its August 2024 Update. This report summarises the public technical discussions and decisions taken in the past month as well as open consultations, future events and vacancies. EFRAG has published its feedback statement on its response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB’s) exposure draft Contracts for Renewable Electricity (proposed amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7). The feedback statement summarises constituent’s feedback, including responses to EFRAG’s draft letter and outreach activity findings. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has announced that it is starting a new research project designed to review and improve the requirements for the statement of cash flows and related matters in IFRS Accounting Standards. The IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) has released its September 2024 update which summarises the decisions reached in its public meeting on 10 September. During the meeting, IFRIC considered requests received in relation to the following matters; Guarantees issued on obligations of other entities Recognition of revenue relating to tuition fees The IASB has proposed amendments to IAS 28 in its exposure draft Equity Method of Accounting – IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures. The proposed amendments add to and clarify how to apply the equity method by answering application questions that the IASB has received over several years. The consultation period remains open until 20 January 2025. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) Survey response deadline on IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements has been extended to 30 September. In its Autumn 2024 Joint Committee Report, the three European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIPOA and ESMA) have warned national supervisors of the financial risks stemming from economic and geopolitical uncertainties. Auditing and Assurance The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board has published a report, Balancing Effectiveness and Timeliness in Audit and Assurance Standard Setting.  This report gives an overview of the IAASB’s progress in addressing key public interest issues and reiterates its strategic direction to continue bolstering confidence in audits and assurance engagements. The Financial Reporting Council welcomes the Government tabling legislation in Parliament on 9 September 2024 to address the significant delays in local authority audits. This follows the Written Ministerial Statement issued on 30 July 2024. Insolvency The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has recently confirmed changes to the procedure for notifying the Minister of proposed collective redundancies, pursuant to section 12 of the Protection of Employment Act 1977, as amended. These changes took effect from 1 July 2024. More information is available on our website. Readers may want to take note of a recent UK High court judgment in connection with the collapse of the retailer British Home Stores (in 2016) and the findings made against individual directors in relation to Wrongful Trading Claims, a Trading Misfeasance Claim and Individual Misfeasance Claims. Two of the directors were each ordered to make a contribution of £6.5m (roughly 15% of the total) to the companies’ assets, on a several liability basis and another director was ordered to make a contribution of £21.5m to the companies’ assets. Please click for an article by UK law firm Burges Salmon which analyses the judgment in detail and the article provides a number of key takeaways for directors of distressed businesses as follows: Navigating duties during times of financial difficulty has never been more complex or potentially risky Directors must ensure that they are up to the task Professional advice is a key protection, but the court will view it in context Board minutes in a distressed situation must be a faithful record of proceedings Directors exercising limited functions may not abdicate decisions for the whole board Directors should not assume that they will be shielded by insurance Please also click for an article by UK law firm Jones Day on the BHS judgment in particular their closing comment that …”. While the BHS facts are relatively extreme, the fact that directors were found liable to such an extent, when in some cases they were earning around £150,000 a year and (at least in one case) had limited involvement at board level, is a warning to all directors of companies facing financial pressure”.  Sustainability EFRAG held its Sustainability Board meeting on Tuesday 17 September 2024. The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) has published two exposure drafts (EDs) for sustainability reporting standards that are fully converged with IFRS S1 and IFRS S2. The comment period for the EDs ends on 27 October 2024. The Institute is holding a webinar on the CSRD on Wednesday 25 September which features Orla Carolan from Future Planet and Mike O’Halloran to understand more about the practical challenges of implementing the CSRD. This includes an overview the steps involved in conducting a double materiality assessment and what to do next around data collection, disclosure and reporting. Please register here to attend. In its recent ESRS Perspectives series, Accountancy Europe look at the European Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ESRS) development process. In this publication they have summarised the ESRS processes and listed the various ESRS support materials from the European Commission and EFRAG. This will provide users and preparers a useful insight into how the standards have been developed. Sanctions and anti-money laundering The UK government recently announced the launch the Office of Trade Sanctions Implementation (OTSI), within the Department for Business and Trade, in October 2024.  Click here also for further information. To equip the office with new civil enforcement powers, on 12 September 2024, the UK government passed the Trade, Aircraft and Shipping Sanctions (Civil Enforcement) Regulations 2024. Click for the explanatory memorandum. OTSI’s enforcement powers come into effect from 10 October 2024. They will apply to all UK persons including businesses wherever they are in the world and any person including businesses in the UK or the UK territorial sea. The regulations introduce new civil enforcement powers, including the power to impose monetary penalties, for breaches of aircraft, shipping and certain trade sanctions. The regulations also give the Secretary of State the option to publish reports where a breach of sanctions regulations has occurred. Click for statutory guidance on the Trade, aircraft and shipping sanctions, civil enforcement. Please click for the latest UK Financial Intelligence Unit SARs in Action magazine, Issue 27. Articles include a look at the UK cross system strategy to tackle professional enablers (individuals or organisations which are providing professional services that enables criminality). The publication also includes some case studies on suspicious activities reports made to UKFIU and an article on “virtual squatting”. The UK National Economic Crime Centre (NECC) recently published its annual report for 2023-2024. It includes some interesting case studies on the takedown of one of the biggest online marketplaces selling stolen credentials to criminals, an investigation into international Cash-Based Money Laundering controller network and case study on the crackdown on romance fraud. Charities news The NI Charity Commission has enhanced the security of Online Services - documents submitted  must not now include special characters in their names. Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons MLA, has appointed Leanne McCullough as a Commissioner to the Board of the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland with effect from 15 August 2024 to 14 August 2029. Central Bank of Ireland news On 18 September 2024 the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) issued its latest Quarterly Bulletin for Q3 2024. You can read about the latest trends and the outlook for the Irish Economy, an article on economic policy issues in the Irish housing market and an item about climate change in the financial sector. The focus of the climate change article is on describing the new analytical indicators of carbon emissions for financial institutions resident in Ireland. In September 2024, CBI published a page dedicated to frequently asked questions on Markets in Cryptoassets Regulation (MICAR) divided into sections on authorisations, expectations, policy and virtual asset service providers. Government legislation programme Autumn 2024 The Government has published its legislative programme for Autumn 2024. Read the press release here and the contents of the programme here. Since the last publication in April, we have reported on draft legislation and enactments of relevance to members. For example, the Charities (Amendment) Act 2024 which has been enacted and awaits commencement. Also, the Irish Dept. of Finance published the Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Bill 2024. The Companies (Corporate Governance Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Bill has been published and is currently being considered in the Dail. Heads of Bill of the National Cyber Security Bill were published in July 2024. This legislation is to transpose EU Directive 2022/2555 which all EU member states are required to transpose in full by 17 October 2024. Also, heads of bill have been published for the Miscellaneous Provisions (Registration of Limited Partnerships and Business Names) Bill which bill will reform the Limited Partnerships Act 1907 and the Registration of Business Names Act 1963, strengthening Ireland’s regulatory framework and responding to concerns raised in relation to the transparency of Limited Partnerships. Other draft legislation of note in the Autumn legislative programme is the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) (Amendment) Bill which is heads in preparation, and which is stated to amend the 2010 Act to ensure that Crypto Asset Service Providers are covered by national law in relation to Ireland’s Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing regime. Also heads in preparation is the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill which will provide for, the designations of Competent Authorities, and penalties, to comply with Ireland’s obligations under Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence (Artificial Intelligence Act). Other On 11 September 2024, the Property (Digital Assets etc) Bill was introduced into the UK Parliament. The press release issued on publication of the Property (Digital Assets etc) Bill noted that it will mean that for the first time in British history, digital holdings including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens such as digital art, and carbon credits can be considered as personal property under the law. The Bill will also ensure Britain maintains its pole position in the emerging global crypto race by being one of the first countries to recognise these assets in law. Click to read the Bill and the explanatory memorandum. Read details of the UK Law Commission’s work on digital assets here. Companies House in the UK has recently posted a blog on “Authorised Corporate Service Providers [ACSPs]: what you need to know”. Readers may recall that identity verification is a core pillar of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 under which Act Companies House will be required to verify the identity of anyone who is submitting information to the public register, including those acting on behalf of a company. The blog gives some information on ACSPs including standards to become an ACSP and registering to become an ACSP.   This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup which is published on the first and third Friday of every month. This is the first edition of Technical Roundup since its Summer Break and we have included some updates below which occurred over the Summer. In developments since the last edition Chartered Accountants Ireland were delighted to welcome members who joined on 1 September to the Institute thereby creating the largest professional body on the island of Ireland.  IAASA recently published a consultation paper to obtain stakeholders’ views on its proposal to revise the Ethical Standard for Auditors (Ireland) and the Financial Reporting Council has issued a consultation on revisions to its Guidance on the Going Concern Basis of Accounting and Related Reporting including Solvency and Liquidity Risks. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has published several updates over the summer months covering their recent activities, including June 2024 update and podcast July 2024 update and podcast August 2024 update The IASB has published its review of the impairment requirements relating to financial instruments, which indicate that the requirements in IFRS 9 are working as intended and provide useful information to users of financial instruments. The IASB is proposing amendments to its newest standard, IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability Disclosures, which proposes to reduce disclosure requirements for entities applying the standard. The comment period remains open until 27 November 2024. The IASB is proposing narrow-scope amendments to IAS 21 The Effect of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates. The comment period remains open until 22 November 2024. The IASB is also proposing to add eight illustrative examples to illustrate how companies can apply IFRS Accounting Standards when reporting the effects of climate-related and other uncertainties in their financial statements. The comment period for these proposals remains open until 28 November 2024. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued a consultation on revisions to its Guidance on the Going Concern Basis of Accounting and Related Reporting, including Solvency and Liquidity Risks The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has issued its Annual Review 2023 which includes key developments for 2023 and Q1 of 2024. The FRC has published amendments to the FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework standard. There are minor amendments to the standard including a disclosure exemption from presenting certain comparative information, and a conditional exemption for qualifying entities in respect of certain disclosures about supplier finance arrangements required by IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows. The FRC has published thematic reviews covering offsetting in financial statements and IFRS 17 first year disclosures. IASB Exposure Drafts On 15th July, the IASB closed the comment period for their exposure draft ED/2024/1 Business Combinations—Disclosures, Goodwill and Impairment (Proposed amendments to IFRS 3, IAS 36). While broadly agreeing with the proposals, the Institute made some recommendations for the IASB to consider when finalising their response. EFRAG and the UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) also responded to the consultation with some recommendations. On 7th August, the IASB closed their comment period for their exposure draft ED/2024/3 Contracts for Renewable Electricity- Proposed amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7. The Institute’s Financial Reporting Technical Committee issued a response to this and noted its overall support for the project, with some areas for improvement and clarification noted. EFRAG and the UKEB also responded to the consultation with some recommendations. IFRS 18 educational material IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements will become effective on 1 January 2027. Some recently published educational material in relation to this new standard includes; IAASA’s policy paper, which sets out some matters for preparers to consider when applying the standard EFRAG’s summary reports on their educational sessions held over the Summer The UKEB have held some outreach activities and have also conducted some surveys on the standard Join us for some Free CPD & learn about the upcoming changes to FRS 102 on 11 September In March, the FRC issued amendments to FRS 102 and FRS 105 as part of its second periodic review of the standards. These changes will become effective in 2025 and 2026. In order to raise awareness of the requirements set out in the amended accounting standards, the FRC will be in Dublin on the 11th September for a free, in-person event. Please join us at the event to learn more about the upcoming changes, including significant changes to lease accounting and revenue recognition. Auditing and Assurance IAASA has published a consultation paper on its proposal to revise the Ethical Standard for Auditors (Ireland) and the comment period remains open until 25 October. The proposed effective date for the new standard is for audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after 15 December 2025. IAASA has issued the July edition of its Standards Newsletter which includes updates on assurance of corporate sustainability reporting in Ireland and international developments. The FRC has published its sixth Annual Enforcement Review (Review) which provides a summary of FRC enforcement activity for the year ending 31 March 2024. The FRC has published its Annual Review of Audit Quality which covers the inspection and supervision results of the Tier 1 audit firms (BDO, Deloitte, EY, Forvis Mazars, KPMG, and PwC), which the FRC defines as the firms with the largest share of the UK PIE market. International Standard on Auditing for Audits of Financial Statements of Less Complex Entities (ISA for LCE). IAASB has published new supplemental guidance on auditor reporting and new supplemental guidance which has been added to the existing resources issued.  The IAASB guidance includes videos, webinars, and other guidance. Sustainability On 5 July 2024 Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD signed into law the Statutory Instrument giving effect to the provisions of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). This legislation was signed just before the passing of the 18-month period whereby EU Member States had to have the CSRD enacted locally. While Ireland made this deadline, not all European countries did. You can keep track of the status of the CSRD transposition across Europe using Ropes & Gray’s CSRD Transposition Tracker. On 7 August IAASA issued a letter to Audit Committee Chairs highlighting their responsibility for the process of preparing sustainability reports as well as for monitoring the assurance process. It also highlights IAASA’s expectation that compliance with these requirements may significantly impact the annual reporting timelines. On 30 August, EFRAG published its XBRL Taxonomy for ESRS Set 1, which enables the digital tagging of ESRS statements. In addition, EFRAG has published the XBRL Taxonomy for Article 8 disclosures. The digital taxonomies enable the marking up ('tagging') of sustainability reporting in machine-readable XBRL format. Over the Summer, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) issued some interesting publications, including; GRI best prepares companies for CSRD reporting rules which answers some questions on what the new European Sustainability Reporting Standards mean for the use of GRI standards. GRI and TNFD make reporting on biodiversity easier which introduces a joint interoperability mapping resource and gives a detailed overview of the alignment between the TNFD disclosure requirements and the GRI standards EFRAG’s ESRS Q&A platform continues to provide a useful source of information regarding the ESRS standards. The platform is regularly updated with new questions and explanations. On 5 July 2024 the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) published: a Final Report on the “Guidelines on Enforcement of Sustainability Information” (GLESI), and a Public Statement on the first application of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). Over the Summer, the EFRAG have released a connectivity project initial paper entitled “Connectivity considerations and boundaries of different Annual Report sections” The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for sustainable products was published on 28 June 2024 and entered into force on 18 July 2024.  It expands the scope of and replaces the current Ecodesign Directive (which applies to the energy efficiency of energy using products). Please click the Dept. of Enterprise Trade and Employment link to find out more about the main features of the legislation which include putting a stop to the destruction of unsold consumer goods and promoting and procuring more sustainable products. Sanctions and anti-money laundering The Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment (IOCTA) issued its annual assessment in July 2024.  The report highlights relevant trends in crime areas such as cyber-attacks, child sexual exploitation and online and payment fraud schemes. Charities news The Charities (Amendment) Act 2024 was enacted in July 2024 and commencement of the legislation is awaited. Anyone who deals with a charity will benefit from reading Mason Hayes & Curran LLP article which deals with a selection of the new features of the 2024 Act. See in particular a useful paragraph on financial reporting requirements. The link to the Mason Hayes & Curran LLP article is here. Also on the charities front, the Irish Charities Regulator has published a newsletter in recent weeks. Charities Regulator News Issue 29 (newsweaver.com). It contains a link to their Annual Report 2023, a very useful article and checklist for a charity which may be selling a property some information on the new Charities (Amendment) Act 2024 and an article on Charity reserves and why they matter. Dept. of Enterprise Trade and Employment news Increase in Company law thresholds come into force The European Union (Adjustments of Size Criteria for Certain Companies and Groups) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 301 of 2024) were signed into law on the 19 June and came into operation on the 1 July 2024. The Regulations transpose delegated Directive 2023/2775/EU . The purpose of the Regulations and the Directive is to adjust company size thresholds in line with 25 per cent inflation, thereby reducing the regulatory and administrative burden on some companies, which would otherwise become subject to audit and additional financial reporting requirements. In October 2023 the Institute, as part of the Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies -Ireland responded to the European Commission request for feedback on adjusting SME size criteria for inflation . Please see an Institute news item of June 24, 2024 on Increased size limits for Irish companies signed into law and click for the Dept. of Enterprise Trade and Employment (DETE) announcement referred to in the news item. Please click for a link to the page in the Institute’s technical hub dedicated to details of company law thresholds. Employment (Collective Redundancies and Miscellaneous Provisions) and Companies (Amendment) Act 2024 Readers may recall a news item in our last edition of round up that this legislation had been passed and readers were given a link to an Institute guide on the company law changes. The Act was commenced in its entirety on 1 July 2024. Draft company/business law legislation has been brought forward by DETE recently Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Bill 2024 The General Scheme of the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Bill 2024 was published by DETE in March 2024. Readers can click here for our news item on provisions which might be of interest to members. By way of update readers should note that in July 2024 DETE published the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Bill 2024 (“the Bill”). The Bill includes substantially all the provisions of the General Scheme though it is worth noting that some of the provisions contained in the General Scheme in relation to the Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA) are not included in the Bill. Click here to see the update on the proposed changes to Irish company law which we published in August 2024. Registration of Limited Partnerships and Business Names Bill (General Scheme) The heads of the General Scheme of the Registration of Limited Partnerships and Business Names Bill 2024 was published in July 2024. The General Scheme is accompanied by a Regulatory Impact Analysis.  The General Scheme proposes to repeal and replace the Limited Partnerships Act 1907 and the Registration of Business Names Act 1963. Subsequently, in August 2024 government approval was secured to commence drafting of the Miscellaneous Provisions (Registration of Limited Partnerships and Business Names) Bill. The proposed Bill would repeal and replace the Limited Partnerships Act 1907 and the Registration of Business Names Act 1963. Both Acts require updating to provide for modern business practices for those engaged in business using a business name or the limited partnership model.  Please click here for an article by law firm Pinsent Masons LLP, an article by law firm Addleshaw Goddard LLP and an article by KPMG Law LLP on the proposals. National Enterprise Hub On 10 July the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD, launched the National Enterprise Hub which brings together information and resources on over 180 government supports.  It is a free service which will make it easier for entrepreneurs to access and avail of grants funding and expert advice across a range of sectors. The hub brings together information and resources on over 180 government supports from 19 different departments and state agencies which can be accessed through the new online hub (www.neh.gov.ie). Please click here for an article by Ogier LLP on the launch of the hub. Pensions Authority The Pensions Authority published 3 publications during the summer which might be of interest. The first is Investment strategy (liquidity risk) guidance for trustees. The next is a link to the launch of the IAPF’s (which represents pension savers)  Cost Transparency Standard (CTS).The third is an information note on the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). Digital resilience - DORA and NIS-2 In August 2024 the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications published the General Scheme of the National Cyber Security Bill 2024. The Bill, when passed, will implement EU Directive 2022/2555, Network and Information Security Directive known as NIS 2. The directive must be brought into effect by member states by 18 October 2024. When implemented, in-scope entities will have imposed on them a significantly increased cybersecurity preparedness and incident reporting regime. Click to read some further information from the Dept. on the general scheme including the categories of “essential “and “important “entities (which includes for example sectors such as transport, pharmaceutical and healthcare ) and cybersecurity risk management. The three European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – the ESAs) will establish the EU systemic cyber incident coordination framework in the context of the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), that will facilitate an effective financial sector response to a cyber incident that poses a risk to financial stability by strengthening the coordination among financial authorities and other relevant bodies in the European Union. Other On 1 September Chartered Accountants Ireland and CPA Ireland commenced operations as one Institute under Chartered Accountants Ireland. CPA Ireland members, students, staff and services have been incorporated into those of Chartered Accountants Ireland creating the largest professional body on the island of Ireland. On 11 July The Central Bank of Ireland published the independent review of its Fitness and Probity (F&P) regime.  The review was undertaken by Mr Andrea Enria the former Chair of ECB Supervisory Board. The Corporate Enforcement Authority has this week published its September newsletter which provides an overview of the CEA’s activities in recent months. This includes information about the CEA annual report, enforcement activities, company law developments and a reminder about its upcoming annual conference on 17 October 2024. You can sign up here  to receive the CEA newsletter directly to your mailbox.          Readers, in particular employers, may find useful A &L Goodbody thoughts and insights after 18 months of the new whistleblowing regime | A&L Goodbody LLP (algoodbody.com) which was published during the summer. It is written 18 months after Ireland transposed the EU Whistleblowing Directive through the Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022 (“2022 Act”). It notes, for example, a substantial increase in the number of whistleblowing claims and discusses the question most frequently asked by its international employer clients. This is whether the employer can retain its centralised reporting channel at parent company level with the introduction of the 2022 Act or whether each legal entity in a group must have its own internal reporting channels and procedures. Readers are also reminded of the Institute resources in this area. The Institute pages on protected disclosures on the technical hub have a large volume of information and resources available on this topic. In July 2024, the Irish Dept. of Finance published the Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Bill 2024. The Bill aims to ensure that sufficient and effective access to cash is available in Ireland, and that any further evolution of the cash infrastructure will be managed in a fair, orderly, transparent and equitable manner for all stakeholders. Click here for the Dept. press release and text of the draft legislation. The text of the EU Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act was published during the summer. You can click for the text of Regulation 2024/1689. The AI Act became law on 1 August 2024 and the various parts of the legislation come into effect in the coming years. Please click the link to access a European Commission page on the AI Act. IFAC, the International Federation of Accountants has published a Professional Accountancy Organisation (PAO) Strategy Planning Toolkit which is designed to equip PAOs to develop their strategic plans and develop their operating models.    This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the information. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of the information we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained herein.