From Monday 14 October 2024, claims for relief for employment expenses should only be made by post using form P87. The claim must now also be backed up by supporting evidence which should also be sent by post. According to HMRC, this change in process is being made as a response to a “growing tax risk driven by ineligible claims for employment expenses”. HMRC says they “are working at pace to reinstate the digital process as soon as possible”. Guidance on the new evidence requirements has also been published. From Monday 14 October, HMRC requires the taxpayer claiming relief for employment expenses to use the P87 form and provide supporting evidence to prove eligibility before the claim will be any further progressed. Some examples of acceptable evidence include receipts and copies of mileage logs which should accompany the P87 in the post. The following publications provide more detail on this: HMRC issue briefing: Evidence required to claim PAYE (P87) employment expenses, Claim tax relief for your job expenses, and Claim tax relief for your job expenses by post.

HMRC has recently been working on tidying up agent registrations and on 4 October 2024 emailed all agents asking them to provide details of their agent codes for self-assessment, VAT and corporation tax. Responses must be made by 8 November 2024 by completing the online form even if the agent/firm only has one code. We are aware that this email has caused some confusion with some believing it to be a scam/phishing attempt. The email is a legitimate email from HMRC and should not be ignored in order to ensure that an agent/firm’s continued access to online services for their clients is not interrupted or cancelled. This email has been sent to all agents who have signed up to receive HMRC agent emails and is not addressed to agent firms.  HMRC is conducting this exercise to identify codes which are no longer needed, or which are linked to entities that no longer exist due to mergers, takeovers or other changes. If this is the case, the correct legal entity will be required to obtain new authority from its clients.  Only one response is required for each legal entity. After 8 November 2024, HMRC will commence contacting firms who did not reply. It is important to note that failure to reply could lead to an agent code being cancelled by HMRC if there is no response. An agent code is the code that issued by HMRC when an agent firm first contacts them to obtain access to HMRC's self-assessment, corporation tax or VAT online services. It is used to enrol for the relevant service and may also need to be used in commercial filing software. The agent code is not the agent’s Government Gateway ID nor is it the Agent Services Account agent reference number.   Agents will have a different code for each service and may have several, for example for different branches of the same firm. Firms may also have codes to access other services; these are not to be provided as part of this exercise. For each code, you should identify if it is: still being used, not in use but is still needed, or no longer needed.   Once the response has been submitted, HMRC will send an acknowledgement which should be retained. Thereafter, HMRC will review the information submitted and make any updates necessary to its systems or it will contact the agent/firm if more information is required. 

In this week’s miscellaneous updates, we bring you news that the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has overturned a European Commission decision that the UK’s controlled foreign company (CFC) rules were state aid. From this month HMRC has begun replacing some of its texts and SMS messages with what it refers to as “branded messages” and the latest issue of HMRC’s Public Service pensions Remedy newsletter has been published. Two new non-executive directors have also joined HMRC’s board, one of whom includes the former director of the Office of Tax Simplification, Bill Dodwell. And finally, HMRC has published more information ahead of the commencement of VAT being charged on private school fees from 1 January 2025. CJEU decision says UK CFC finance company rules were not state aid The CJEU recently ruled that the UK’s CFC rules were compatible with the internal market and set aside the judgment of the General Court, ordering the European Commission to pay the court costs for those involved in the appeal. The case centred around whether the UK’s finance company exemption on the taxation of the non-trade finance profits of CFCs was tantamount to artificial diversion of profits and constituted state aid. HMRC branded messages From October 2024 HMRC has begun to replace some of the texts and SMS messages it sends to taxpayers with what it refers to as  “branded messages”. These “branded messages” use some of the features of rich communications services, in order to “modernises and improves SMS messaging”. Although HMRC says that “branded message are more secure”, it continues to advise taxpayers to follow the published guidance on identifying suspicious contact. VAT on private school fees HMRC has published more information ahead of the commencement of VAT being charged on private school fees from 1 January 2025. This confirms that education providers will be able to register for VAT from 30 October 2024. More details are available in the following publications: Check if you must register for VAT if you receive private school fees, and Charging and reclaiming VAT on goods and services related to private school fees.

In this week’s post EU exit corner, we bring you the latest guidance updates and publications relevant in the post EU exit environment. The most recent Trader Support Service bulletin is available as is the latest Brexit and Beyond newsletter from the Northern Ireland Assembly EU Affairs Team. HMRC has sent two attachments containing key information on the latest release for the Customs Declarations Service (CDS). Finally, last week it was announced by email that the new safety and security declarations for imports into Great Britain which were due to commence from the end of this month under the next stage of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) have been further delayed and will now commence from 31 January 2025. CDS latest release HMRC has asked us to share two attachments containing key elements of CDS release 4.6.0. The first attachment is an update on CDS release 4.6.0.  The second attachment is an annex which makes clear what codes traders should not be using. Delayed to introduction of safety and security declarations for imports HMRC has updated its guidance to reflect the decision to delay the new import requirements for goods from the EU (and other territories that did not have requirements before 1 January 2021) which were expected to be implemented from 31 October 2024 under the next phase of the BTOM. The waiver has now been extended until 31 January 2025. HMRC will publish further information in the coming weeks and will reach out to key stakeholders to start arranging more detailed engagement sessions, including support for readiness activity Miscellaneous guidance updates and publications Safety and security requirements on imports and exports, Making an entry summary declaration, Data Element 2/3: Document and Other Reference Codes: Licence Types — Imports and Exports of the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), Reference Documents for The Customs (Tariff Quotas) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Reference document for authorised use: eligible goods and authorised uses, Reference documents for The Customs (Reliefs from a Liability to Import Duty and Miscellaneous Amendments) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Flexible Accounting System for imports (Customs Notice 100), Appendix 2 C21e: Data Element 1/11: Additional Procedure Codes, and Method of payment (MOP) codes for Data Element 4/8 of the Customs Declaration Service.

The latest edition of our tidbits features guidance updates in a range of areas and HMRC’s latest organisation chart and governance arrangements are also available. Apply as an individual to receive UK rental income without UK tax deducted, Named tax avoidance schemes, promoters, enablers and suppliers, Work out and claim relief from Corporation Tax trading losses, Disguised remuneration: settling your tax affairs, Disguised remuneration settlement terms 2020, Register a limited company as a subcontractor with payment under deduction by post, Register a partnership as a subcontractor with payment under deduction by post, HM Revenue & Customs – Our governance, Declare no return of Class 1A National Insurance contributions, Check the recognised overseas pension schemes notification list, Self Assessment: tax calculation summary (SA110) , How to apply for a certificate of residence to claim tax relief abroad, Completing your Company Tax Return, HMRC email updates, videos and webinars for VAT, HMRC email updates, videos and webinars for company directors, Public service pensions remedy newsletter — October 2023, HMRC email updates, videos and webinars for tax agents and advisers, HMRC email updates, videos and webinars for employing people, Approved offshore reporting funds, Correction of pension contributions following the public service pensions remedy, Glossary of terms for tax and National Insurance contributions for employee travel (490: Employee travel), Pension schemes: report of relevant benefit crystallisation events or transferring relieved relevant non-UK scheme assets (APSS 252), International Tax — UK Real Estate Investment Trusts (form UK-REIT DT-Company), Tell HMRC about who is dealing with the estate when someone dies, Claim a tax refund when you've flexibly accessed all of your pension (P53Z), Claim back Income Tax on a pension death benefit lump sum P53Z(DB), Claim a tax refund if you've stopped work and flexibly accessed all of your pension (P50Z), Class 1A National Insurance contributions on benefits in kind (CWG5), Penalties for a failure to correct certain offshore tax non-compliance, Details of deliberate tax defaulters, Submit information to support your claim for R&D Corporation Tax reliefs, Named tax avoidance schemes, promoters, enablers and suppliers, HM Revenue and Customs' organisation chart, How HMRC resolves civil tax disputes, HMRC Code of Governance for Resolving Tax Disputes, Dispute resolution governance board remits, HMRC Accounting Officer Assessments, How HMRC consults with Large Businesses, Inheritance Tax: reduced rate of Inheritance Tax (IHT430), Help with common risks in transfer pricing approaches — GfC7, Using the Non-resident Landlords Scheme if you’re a letting agent or tenant, Penalties for a failure to correct certain offshore tax non-compliance, People involved in transactions connected with VAT fraud, Details of deliberate tax defaulters, Inheritance Tax account (IHT400) , Claim a refund of Income Tax deducted from savings and investments (R40) , Register an unincorporated association for Corporation Tax, Corporation Tax for non-UK incorporated companies, Register an offshore property developer for Corporation Tax, Register a non-UK incorporated company for Corporation Tax if you're a UK resident, Register a non-resident company who disposed of UK property or land for Corporation Tax, Apply as a company to receive UK rental income with no UK tax deducted, Register for Corporation Tax through a dependent agent permanent establishment, Pensions schemes newsletter 162 — September 2024, How to apply for clearance or approval of a transaction from HMRC, Software developers providing customs declaration software, Admit tax fraud to HMRC using the Contractual Disclosure Facility, Pay a penalty charge for not registering or maintaining a trust, Pay Plastic Packaging Tax, Pay duty on biofuels or road fuel gas, Pay your Economic Crime Levy, and Pay the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (notice 5).

AI is reshaping the workforce, blending human creativity with technology. Tim Bergin explores how organisations can leverage generative AI to unlock potential and drive transformation Generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) may be perceived as a risk to human employment, but it can also be viewed as a catalyst for redefining the contribution of individuals in the professional environment. Increased access to Gen AI is allowing workers to fill capability gaps in creativity, team dynamics and content generation with a new technology-driven assistant. The challenge now lies in encouraging our organisations to embrace the advantages while unlocking the potential for workforce workplace restructuring. Unlocking human potential Gen AI provides the ability to rethink how work is organised at operating model, functional level an team level. How can employers unlock the full potential of their workforce at these levels? Team AI is a proven catalyst for better communication, how we interact with colleagues and customers, and how we collaborate and get work done. For example, virtual and augmented reality allow real-time collaboration with people across the globe, facilitating richer conversations, skill sharing and exposure to other areas of the organisation. According to the EY Workforce Reimaged 2023 survey, there is a 33 percent net positive sentiment of employers and employees who believe Gen AI will boost productivity and new ways of working, and an even greater 44 percent net positive of those who expect the technology to enable greater flexible working. Aside from additional capacity, AI systems can provide insights into team performance, sentiment and connection by tracking and analysing data. This could give employers insight into how their team is feeling through survey feedback. This can help promote a more productive, collaborative environment, enabling employers to proactively address employee issues. Organisation The adoption of AI at an organisational level can revolutionise current ways of working from front-line customer-facing functions, to operations and corporate functions such as finance and HR. The transformative impact can be seen on all fronts, demonstrating the potential to improve not only efficiency and effectiveness but also employee experience. For example, using Gen AI to predict consumer needs can help organisations refine their stock systems and supply chain to ensure products are ready at the point of need, rather than stockpiling and incurring unnecessary storage costs. This use case can also free up time for consumer-facing staff to have more considered conversations with their customers about potential future purchasing needs, and demonstrates the rounded positive impact we can expect to see if Gen AI is used responsibly, and thoughtful consideration is given to the workforce impact and opportunity. It is clear from a team and organisational perspective that AI’s role is pivotal in the evolution of the workforce and the increasing requirement for upskilling and reskilling. Success lies in the coming together of emerging technologies and vital human interventions; releasing the power of technology while emphasising the importance of what makes work human. Collaborative partnership While AI's rapid proliferation might trigger fear of unprecedented changes in the working environment, organisations must remember that by embracing AI and investing in the upskilling of their workforce, they are fostering a collaborative partnership between human creativity and artificial intelligence. Tim Bergin is Partner of People Consulting at EY 

When an employee resigns, handling the process smoothly is crucial. Moira Grassick outlines key steps to manage both formal resignations and sudden departures in your business Occasionally, employees resign. In doing so, they usually give full contractual notice of their resignation. However, an employee sometimes resigns in the heat of the moment. As you can imagine, quitting a job with no notice given doesn’t exactly follow the typical resignation process. Regardless of whether an employee submits a resignation letter or rage quits their job, you need to handle the situation properly.   What is resignation? Resignation is when an employee informs their employer that they’re quitting. The employment relationships can end in various ways, including: An employee gives you their notice of resignation by speaking with you or handing in a letter of resignation; The business ends the contract of employment; or An employee reaches a justifiable contractual retirement age. Once an employee has notified you of their intention to resign, they must complete a notice period. The length of this notice period can be found in the employee’s employment contract. During this period, you can begin your search to find a replacement for the role. It’s also worth noting that you can pay the employee to not work through their notice period. Notice periods in Ireland Notice periods in Ireland vary by each employee’s employment contract and often their length of service. There are, however, two common types of notice to keep in mind: Contractual notice: You can decide the amount of contractual notice an employee must give. For instance, two months’ notice may be required for an employee who has worked with your business for two years. Statutory notice: This is the length of notice an employee is legally required to give. This will depend on their length of service. If an employee has worked with your business for at least 13 weeks, they must give you at least one week’s notice. However, one week’s notice is generally too little time to arrange a replacement. This underlines the value of an appropriate contractual notice period that works for your business. Next steps When an employee of yours decides to resign, it’s only natural that you may try to convince them to stay. After all, they could be one of your highest achievers. If instead you accept the resignation, there are some key steps to follow: Get the resignation in writing: Written confirmation of the resignation must include the employee’s name, the date, and a signature. Seek a resignation letter regardless of the length of employment. Respond to the resignation: Acknowledge your acceptance of the resignation. This can be a written or verbal response. You can also send a resignation email with the notice period confirmed. Decide on the notice period: Do you want the employee to work their full notice period? Confirm your decision with the departing employee. Prepare a handover pack: A handover pack for the departing employee’s replacement will come in handy when they arrive. Conduct an exit interview: This interview allows you to understand the employee’s reasons for resigning. You’ll also be able to make improvements to their role or management practises based on that feedback. Retrieve business property: Retrieve business property from the departing employee. These items could include computers, devices, or their uniform. You must also arrange the employee’s final wage payment. Failing to do so can result in a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) claim. Finally, try to end the professional relationship on a positive note. After all, the departing employee may return to your business down the line. Moira Grassick is Chief Operating Officer at Peninsula

Finance Bill 2024 introduces key updates on tax reliefs for employers and private businesses. Pat Mahon breaks down the most significant changes From an employment and personal tax standpoint, the majority of the legislative actions contained in Finance Bill 2024 are aligned with announcements made on Budget Day. However, some newly announced measures in the Finance Bill are likely to be of interest to employers and private businesses. Employment Investment Incentive Finance (No. 2) Act 2023 brought several changes to Employment Investment Incentive (EII) relief to ensure the relief complied with amended EU state aid rules. The most fundamental change concerns the rate of tax relief. Finance (No. 2) Act 2023 restricted the maximum effective rate of EII relief for follow-on investments to 20 percent. This change was implemented based on an initial interpretation of EU state aid rules. However, on further developments, it appears that there is flexibility in the EU state aid rules for the 35 percent rate to apply to follow-on risk finance investments where the company has been in existence for less than ten years or within seven years of its first commercial sale. Finance Bill 2024 has recognised this rate of relief on a retrospective basis for shares issued on or after 1 January 2024. This is a welcomed change for the Irish scale-up sector. Other relevant changes to the regime were: An extension to the deadline for processing the relief from four months post-year-end to 31 December in the year following the year in which the shares were issued. The extension of the operation of the relief to 31 December 2026. The amount upon which an investor can claim tax relief under the scheme has increased from €500,000 to €1 million. Start-Up Refunds for Entrepreneurs The amount of Start-Up Refunds for Entrepreneurs (SURE) relief that an investor can claim annually has been increased from €100,000 to €140,000. This results in a total maximum of €980,000 over seven years. For SURE relief being claimed where a loan is converted to eligible shares, a business plan must be in place in advance of the date of the issue of the loan. The same change for the rate of relief from 20 to 3 precent for follow-on EII investments also applies to SURE claims.   Start-Up Relief S486C TCA 1997 For accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2025, in addition to providing the current relief relevant to the amount of employer’s PRSI borne by the company, relief will also be available by reference to the amount of Class S PRSI paid by a director of the company. This is subject to a maximum of €5,000 employer’s PRSI per employee, €1,000 Class S PRSI per company director and €40,000 overall. R&D tax credit  The amount of refundable R&D tax credits that can be paid to a company in a year has been increased from €50,000 to €75,000. CGT retirement relief Finance (No. 2) Act 2023 increased the age limits for CGT retirement relief purposes from 65 to 69 years. However, it also introduced a new maximum limit of €10 million on disposals of qualifying assets to children up to and including the age of 69 years. These changes were due to take effect from 1 January 2025. While the increased upper age limit will remain in place, amendments introduced in Finance Bill 2024 propose a clawback period of 12 years in relation to disposals of qualifying assets in excess of €10 million made by an individual between the ages of 55 and 69 years (inclusive) from 1 January 2025. The relief will operate to defer any CGT which would be due by the parent disposing of the asset to the earlier of: the date on which the shares are disposed of by the child; or the expiration of 12 years from the date of the disposal. Where a qualifying asset on which retirement relief is claimed is subsequently disposed of by the child within 12 years of the transfer, the child will be assessed on the deferred CGT in addition to any CGT arising in respect of the gain accruing to the child. However, if the qualifying asset is held by the child for at least 12 years, the CGT will be abated. This change is to be welcomed and will ensure that transfers of successful businesses to the next generation are not penalised subject to a number of requirements being satisfied. Angel investor CGT relief Angel investor CGT relief was introduced in Finance (No. 2) Act 2023. The relief provides a reduced CGT rate for qualifying investments made by a qualifying investor in a qualifying company. The reduced CGT rate is 16 percent for direct investments or 18 percent for investments made by a partnership. The relief was restricted to a lifetime limit of €3 million on gains. The new Finance Bill increased the lifetime limit on gains from €3 million to €10 million. The commencement of the relief is subject to Ministerial Order. Small benefit exemption Finance Bill 2024 confirms the increase in the small benefit exemption threshold to €1,500 per annum. There is also a very welcome increase in respect of the number of vouchers or benefits that qualify for the relief, with five gifts or vouchers now being eligible for relief providing the cumulative value does not exceed €1,500 per annum. Surprisingly, the Bill also states that the exemption will cease with effect from the year of assessment 2030 onwards. PAYE statute of limitations There is a provision to amend the time limits within which the Revenue Commissioners can raise PAYE assessments against employers for tax years 2025 et seq. However, there are some uncertainties in relation to the effect of the changes and further clarity will need to be provided once the draft provision is debated. Pat Mahon is Tax Partner at PwC

  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG bulletin read about Chartered Accountants Ireland's new regulatory framework in place for sustainability assurance service providers in Ireland. Also covered is a report from Business in the Community Ireland urging action on interconnected climate and nature crises, sustainability in the October issue of Accountancy Ireland, and the publication by Global Accounting Alliance of Nature is everyone’s business: the GAA’s progress and pathway to 2030, as well as the usual resources, articles and upcoming events. Ireland news New regulatory framework for sustainability assurance service providers in Ireland in place The Institute has published the Audit Regulations (incorporating assurance under CSRD) and Guidance, Ireland with effect from 11 October. These regulations replace the existing Audit Regulations for Ireland and introduce the Institute’s regulatory framework for the authorisation and oversight of firms and individuals undertaking sustainability assurance engagements pursuant to Part 28 of the Companies Act 2014 (which reflects the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)). Read more here.  Reverse the Trend Ireland's first official sustainable fashion campaign – Reverse the Trend – launched this week. The launch marked World Circular Textiles Day on Tuesday, 8 October, a day dedicated to exploring circularity in textiles around the world and sharing stories to inspire more sharing, re-wearing, reuse and remanufacturing along the textiles supply chain. The fashion industry is estimated to be responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions, while only 31% of Irish people see a link between purchasing textiles and climate change. Three in Five Irish Consumers More Likely to Support Businesses Committed to Climate and Nature Three in five Irish consumers are more likely to support businesses committed to climate and nature, according to a report published this week by Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI). BITCI surveyed consumers ahead of the launch of their new collective action campaign  Accelerate, the Business Pact on Climate and Nature which urges action to address the interconnected climate and nature crises. Sustainability in Accountancy Ireland The October/November 2024 issue of Accountancy Ireland published this week, with a special report into sustainable finance. The recently transposed Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CRSD) is covered, along with articles by Chartered Accountants supporting businesses and the wider profession in its implementation: Niamh Brennan, Louise Gorman and Seán O’Reilly explain why accountants will play a critical role in helping SMEs manage the impact of new sustainability reporting requirements on their supply chains.   In ‘The CSRD – more than just compliance?’ David Connolly and Alba Boshnjaku explain how companies complying with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive could see real business benefits, but the right mindset is crucial.   Clarity is needed to support compliance with CSRD in Irish law, writes Daniel O’Donovan, who considers the urgent need to resolve interpretative questions that have emerged following the transposition of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive into Irish law.   Chartered Accountants Ireland Professional Accounting Lead, Dee Moran, writes about how Accountants are key to reaching Climate Act targets, and have a critical role to play in assisting companies, both large and small, to get on their sustainability journey.   Dee France, Wellbeing Lead with Thrive, Chartered Accountants Ireland’s dedicated wellbeing hub, writes how age discrimination is often under-represented in DE&I discussions, with older professionals experiencing the ill-effects of negative attitudes and bias. World news Chartered Accountants Ireland, as a member of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), has this week published ‘Nature is everyone’s business: the GAA’s progress and pathway to 2030’. The publication builds on progress made since our combined commitments made in 2022 to reverse nature loss before the Biodiversity COP 16 meeting being held later this month in Colombia. The report summaries the progress made to date, what we need to do as professional bodies, actions we need to take collectively and as individual GAA members, to accelerate progress.   And there is much work to be completed in this area. The Living Planet Report, a comprehensive overview of the state of the natural world, reveals how global wildlife populations have shrunk by an average of 73% in the past 50 years. Our institutes are committed to supporting our members and contributing to our global commitment. The GAA intends to publish a ‘Starter guide to Nature for Accountants’ later this year to give our members practical guidance on why nature matters to them in their professional roles, and how to get started on embedding it in their day-to-day practices. Technical update In case you missed them, here are some  Technical updates from the Professional Accounting team at Chartered Accountants Ireland   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.   The IFRS Foundation has published a guide Voluntarily applying ISSB Standards — A guide for preparers that aims to support companies as they start to apply ISSB Standards voluntarily and 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. Did you know UK retail giant ASDA has launched a new initiative aimed at boosting sustainability within its supply chains. Set to launch in January 2025, the initiative will reportedly provide financial incentives to encourage sustainable practices among suppliers, rewarding those performing strongly with most preferential terms. Articles Social mobility can widen talent pool ((The Times (UK)) Fossil Fuel Companies Made Bold Promises to Capture Carbon. Here’s What Actually Happened (DeSmog) Renewables provided a third of electricity in September (Irish Examiner)   Upcoming Events Trinity College Dublin, What does economics have to do with nature? What does economics have to do with nature? What is the natural capital approach? Why do we need an economic approach to climate change risks?  Come and hear answers to these questions and more from Ece Ozdemiroglu, environmental  economist, founder & CEO of EFTEC (Economics for the Environment) In person, Oct 14, 2024 at 6:00 PM   Wall Street Green, Wall Street Green Digital Summit Date: Oct 15th Location: Online UN Global Compact, Virtual Open House: Exploring the UN Global Compact & the Network for Ireland Are you interested in learning more about the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative? Curious about how your company can play a role in advancing the UN SDGs and driving impactful change? Join the Virtual Open House on 16th October for a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders and explore how we can work together to create a more sustainable and responsible future. At this webinar you’ll gain insights into the value of engaging with the UN Global Compact and the soon-to-be-launched Network for Ireland. - Overview of the UN Global Compact and its Ten Principles - Benefits of joining the UN Global Compact for your business - Introduction to the new Ireland Network and how it can support your sustainability goals Online, 16 October, 3:30- 4:30pm Environmental Finance, Sustainability Data EMEA Date: Oct 17th Location: London Environment Ireland, Environment Conference Environment Ireland® is Ireland’s major environmental policy and management conference. Now in its 20th year, this important event features a range of focused sessions highlighting the pressing issues facing the environment in Ireland and further afield. In person, Croke Park, 17 October   Derry City and Strabane District Council, The Sustainable Climate Conference 2024 This event will unite national leaders, policymakers, scientists, industry experts, and community leaders to address the pressing challenges presented by climate change, sustainability, biodiversity loss, and the preservation of our natural environment for the betterment of all citizens and communities. In person, Guildhall Square Londonderry BT48 7BB United Kingdom, Thursday, October 17 · 9:30am - 12:45pm   Convention on Biological Diversity, COP16 Date: Oct 21-Nov 1 Location: Colombia Chartered Accountants Ireland ESG Masterclass: Take your sustainability knowledge to the next level (ROI/NI) Masterclass designed for all professional accountants working in business or practice, wishing to consolidate their knowledge and understanding of the sustainability regulatory, reporting and assurance landscape. 24 October, 08:30 – 12.00, Virtual   Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI) +NSAI, IBEC and The ESG Exchange, CSRD compliance linked to strategy and long-term (sustainable) performance At this event, company practitioners and international experts will discuss what good ESG data management looks like, and a new international sustainability maturity guideline on where to start and how to build towards best practice in sustainability' Virtual, 24th October 2024, 10:00-11:30   IAFA & IAASA  Integrating Sustainability Reporting and Assurance into Accounting Education Conference The conference is a collaboration between IAFA and the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA) and aims to build awareness of the implications of sustainability reporting & assurance for accounting education, and to foster meaningful dialogue & collaboration among stakeholders to drive positive change. It will explore: Challenges and opportunities facing accounting education in the context of sustainability reporting and assurance, Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and its implications for accounting education, Future skills for sustainability reporting and assurance, Strategies for enhancing accounting education and student skills development. In person, 1 November, Maynooth University   Accountancy Europe, Shaping the future of sustainability assurance engagements Join Accountancy Europe and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) to discuss the latest developments in the world of sustainability assurance. In this webinar, you will hear insights from the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), the Committee of European Auditing Oversight Bodies (CEAOB) and the Nordic Federation of Accountants. Virtual, 12 November, 15.00-16.45 (Brussels Time)   iQuest & Business Post, ESG Autumn Summit Date: Nov 20th Location: Croke Park   Network for Chartered Accountants working on ESG projects Are you a Chartered Accountant working in ESG or working on ESG-related projects? Would you like an opportunity to engage with other Chartered Accountants working in this space to share insights, challenges and opportunities? Chartered Accountants Ireland now has a network to allow members working in sustainability/ESG to meet and discuss all matters of interest re ESG and accounting. Next meeting: Wednesday, 23 October, 14:00-15.30 Zoom If you would like to attend, please email sustainability@charteredaccountants.ie   You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.

The Ulster Society Public Sector Sub-Committee held the next latest event in its leadership series on Tuesday 8 October - 'Spotlight on leading in the Public Sector' Will Young, Director of HR in the Northern Ireland Civil Service, presented on what it means to be a leader in the public sector today. A pdf copy of Will's presentation is available HERE

The Institute has published the Audit Regulations (incorporating assurance under CSRD) and Guidance, Ireland with effect from 11 October.   These regulations replace the existing Audit Regulations for Ireland and introduce the Institute’s regulatory framework for the authorisation and oversight of firms and individuals undertaking sustainability assurance engagements pursuant to Part 28 of the Companies Act 2014 (which reflects the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)). In Ireland only statutory auditors and statutory audit firms can undertake sustainability assurance engagements.  The regulatory regime builds on the existing regulatory regime for statutory auditors and audit firms and this is reflected in the Institute’s revised Audit Regulations (incorporating assurance under CSRD).  The Audit Regulations (incorporating assurance under CSRD) provide for the authorisation, quality assurance and regulatory enforcement of firms and individuals carrying out sustainability assurance engagements and sets out the ongoing regulatory obligations of those firms and individuals. Applications for approval to carry out sustainability assurance engagements The Institute is accepting applications from Institute firms and responsible individuals (RIs) registered for audit in Ireland for approval to carry out sustainability assurance engagements.  Given the urgency of providing authorisation for eligible firms and RIs who have clients reporting under the CSRD in respect of financial year 2024 the Institute will prioritise applications from audit firms and RIs who have clients in this ‘first wave’ of sustainability reporting.  Application forms are available from sasp-applications@charteredaccountants.ie.  The Institute FAQs regarding approval to carry out sustainability assurance engagements provide useful information for potential applicants. Eligibility for approval to carry out sustainability assurance engagements: An Irish registered audit firm is eligible for approval to carry out sustainability assurance engagements if the firm has at least one RI who has been approved as a sustainability assurance service provider (SASP).  An individual approved as RI in Ireland before 1 January 2026 can avail of transitional arrangements and therefore is eligible for approval as a SASP if that RI has demonstrated competence in sustainability assurance by undertaking the appropriate relevant CPD.  A detailed CPD template is submitted by the RI on application for SASP status.   An individual approved as RI in Ireland on or after 1 January 2026 will not be able to avail of those transitional arrangements and will have to undertake a programme of education, including examination, and 8 months of practical training in relevant work. Background note: The CRSD was transposed into Irish law in July 2024 by SI 336 of 2024 which amended the Companies Act 2014.  New Part 28 of the Companies Act 2014 requires certain companies to prepare sustainability reports disclosing information about the company’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) activities in line with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRSs).  It also requires third party assurance (limited assurance initially) on these ESG disclosures and provides for a regulatory regime for the education, training, authorisation and oversight of sustainability assurance providers.   In Ireland only statutory auditors and statutory audit firms can undertake sustainability assurance engagements. 

According to a Forbes article, 69% of people said their manager impacts their mental health more than their therapist or doctor—and it’s equal to that of their partner. Further research from Gallup identifies management style as the second leading cause of work-related stress absence. If you’re struggling with a difficult manager, it's important to understand how to effectively navigate the situation.    Understand what’s driving their behaviour Managers can act difficult for a variety of reasons, many of which may have nothing to do with you. They may be stressed, lack proper training, have challenging personality traits or may have other personal issues. Recognising this can help you avoid taking their behaviour personally and cultivate empathy. While constructive feedback and direction are a normal part of any job, if your manager is delivering this in a harsh or unhelpful manner, it is more likely a reflection of their internal struggles or skill gaps than your performance. Regulate your own emotions and behaviour Dealing with a difficult manager can be incredibly stressful, often taking a toll on your self-esteem. It’s important to prioritise self-care and process these difficult emotions. Techniques such as breathwork, meditation, journaling, practicing self-compassion and grounding exercises can help you stay calm and avoid reacting impulsively to their behaviour. It is also important to reflect on your own actions—are there any behaviours or responses on your part that might be contributing to the tension? Being self-aware can help you navigate the situation more effectively. Communicate your concerns It is important to remember that no one is a mind reader. Although we might expect our manager to know what to do or not do, it is crucial to communicate your concerns openly and professionally, rather than letting frustrations build up. While preparing for this conversation: - Provide specific examples of the issues you are facing rather than vague complaints. - Focus on the behaviour rather than making it personal. Avoid placing blame or statements like ‘you’re too critical’ and instead use ‘I’ statements such as ‘I noticed that I received a lot of detailed feedback on my last three reports.’ - Be clear on the impact it is having on your work and your mental health, for example, ‘It’s making it difficult for me to feel confident in my work, and it’s starting to affect my motivation and self-esteem.’ - Offer solutions to improve the situation rather than just pointing out problems for example, ‘Could we balance detailed feedback with what’s working well, so I can improve more effectively?.’ - Ask for feedback and be open to hearing their perspective on the situation, for example, ‘I’d like to get your perspective on the situation and how we can improve it going forward.’ Seek Support A problem shared is a problem halved. When dealing with a difficult manager, it is vital to have a support network. Trying opening up to a trusted family member, friend or colleague that can listen or give you impartial advice. If your entire team are struggling with the same issue, consider discussing the issue collectively. Having addressed the issue with your manager without seeing any progress, it may be time to escalate the situation to their manager or HR, either informally or through formal channels. If you’ve exhausted all options and you are still struggling, it may be worth considering whether the role or team is the right fit for you in the long term, or if exploring new opportunities could offer a better environment. Written by Gillian Bane on behalf of Thrive.  If you are struggling with the impacts of work-related issues, Thrive is here to help. Thrive is the Institute's dedicated wellbeing hub that offers free wellbeing support to members and students. Contact the team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie  or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294.  Gillian Bane is a chartered accountant and workplace health and wellbeing consultant who specialises in manager and leadership training. You can find more information on her website www.wellwork360.com.