The latest UK tax tidbits features updated guidance and publications in a wide range of areas. Reporting poor R&D tax relief service standards, Rates and allowances: Inheritance Tax thresholds and interest rates, Inheritance Tax thresholds and interest rates, Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings: work out the value of your property, Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings: technical guidance, Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings, Check genuine HMRC contact that uses more than one communication method, List of approved professional organisations and learned societies (List 3), Income Tax personal allowances and reliefs, Tell HMRC about the end of a qualifying interest in possession because someone has died (IHT100b (death)), Regulations to update the UK’s automatic exchange of information agreements, Cryptoasset Reporting Framework, Negligible value claims and agreements, Compliance checks: tax advantaged shares schemes — CC/FS1f, Check genuine HMRC contact that uses more than one communication method, Find payroll software that is recognised by HMRC, Voice Identification Privacy Notice, Our governance, Submit your Soft Drinks Industry Levy return, List of community amateur sports clubs (CASC) registered with HMRC, Ask HMRC to transfer surplus Income Tax allowances, When National Insurance and PAYE is due on tips, gratuities and service charges (E24), Class 1A National Insurance contributions on benefits in kind (CWG5), and Tax-free savings newsletter 17.

In this week’s cross-border trading corner, we bring you the latest guidance updates and publications. The most recent Trader Support Service bulletin is also available as is the latest Brexit and Beyond newsletter from the Northern Ireland Assembly EU Affairs team. In a recent meeting of the Northern Ireland Joint Customs Consultative Committee, HMRC confirmed that the process is ongoing to deliver a permanent service beyond the end of 2025 which will provide the same services as the current Trader Support Service (TSS). For several years, Chartered Accountants Ireland lobbied the UK Government for a permanent solution to the TSS which would continue to provide  free support to help businesses move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland by facilitating customs and safety declarations.  Miscellaneous guidance updates and publications This week’s miscellaneous guidance updates and publications are as follows: Reference documents for The Customs (Reliefs from a Liability to Import Duty and Miscellaneous Amendments) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Reference document for authorised use: eligible goods and authorised uses, Reference Documents for The Customs (Tariff Quotas) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Reference Documents for The Customs Tariff (Suspension of Import Duty Rates) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Reference Document for The Customs (Origin of Chargeable Goods) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Reference Document for The Customs Tariff (Establishment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, Customs, VAT and excise UK transition legislation from 1 January 2021, Apply for repayment of import duty and VAT (CHIEF), Importing sanitary and phytosanitary controlled goods into Great Britain that interact with the Border Trade Matching Service, and External temporary storage facilities codes for Data Element 5/23 of the Customs Declaration Service.

In this week’s detailed miscellaneous updates which you can read more about below, a new digital process must now be followed to notify VAT error corrections and new evidence requirements must be met to satisfy all new PAYE claims for pensions tax relief. From 1 October 2025, agents are now able to reactivate Self-Assessment (SA) for their clients by calling the Agent Dedicated Line (ADL). In other news this week: The Institute for Fiscal Studies has published its Green Budget 2025 which sets out a range of potential options for tax increases in the next Budget, The latest schedule of HMRC Talking Points live and recorded webinars for tax agents are available for booking. Spaces are limited, so take a look now and save your place, and Check HMRC’s online services availability page for details of planned downtime and the online services affected.  New online process for VAT error correction after withdrawal of VAT 652 In early September, HMRC withdrew VAT Form 652 for VAT corrections. A new process must now be followed to notify VAT error corrections. More detail on this change is set out in updated guidance. The process is essentially now digitalised, with a paper option available for anyone who is exempt from Making Tax Digital for VAT. According to HMRC, the aim of this change is to improve efficiency and accuracy. Errors should now be corrected online by businesses by logging in using their Government Gateway credentials and using the Check how to tell HMRC about VAT Return errors tool. HMRC has also confirmed that agents are able to submit corrections on behalf of clients through the same system.  Any business with a confirmed exemption from MTD for VAT should continue to notify HMRC about errors in their VAT returns in writing. Written notifications should be sent to the VAT error correction team either by post at BT VAT, HMRC, BX9 1WR, or by email at inbox.btcnevaterrorcorrection@hmrc.gov.uk. Agents can also write on behalf of clients using the same contact details to correct errors, however HMRC had asked that the online route be used by agents where possible. The online tool can also be accessed by agents on GOV.UK. This will take the agent to the landing page to submit the error correction notice or to the authorisation pages to support setting up authorisation via the required digital handshake.  On 5 September, guidance within VAT Notice 700/45 section 4 was updated with information on how and when to correct VAT errors using the new process. However, HMRC acknowledges that it was not clearly communicated that authorised agents can also use the online error correction tool. New evidence requirements for PAYE pensions tax relief claims From 1 September 2025, all PAYE claims for pension tax relief should be made online or by post but must also be supported by evidence from the pension provider or employer. Supporting evidence is needed for each tax year that a claim is made. Information on the new process and evidence requirements is set out in Newsletter 172: August 2025 of the Pension Schemes Newsletter. Anyone who is not in Self-Assessment (SA) is able to contact HMRC to claim tax relief in respect of pension contributions in certain scenarios. Successful claims are reflected via an adjustment to the taxpayer’s tax code. SA taxpayers should continue to claim relief via their SA tax return.  Broadly, the evidence required is a letter or statement from the pension provider or a payslip from the employer which should provide the following details: The claimant’s full name, Details of the pension contributions paid and the tax year they relate to, and If the claim relates to a workplace pension, that the claimant received 20 percent tax relief automatically from their employer. SA client reactivation From 1 October 2025, agents are now able to reactivate SA for their clients by calling HMRC on the ADL. Reactivation means that if that client was previously in SA and did not submit a tax return in 2023/24, they can be reactivated before submitting their 2024/25 tax return and do not need to register again, as they will already have a Unique Taxpayer Reference number.  More information on this will be shared by HMRC in the October Agent Update later this month. This new process follows recommendations and discussions between HMRC and Chartered Accountants Ireland and the other professional bodies at recent stakeholder forum meetings. The new service can only be accessed by selecting the relevant option from the ADL menu meaning it is not possible to be transferred to this from other HMRC helplines or to request this via web chat. HMRC have confirmed that it is possible to discuss up to five client reactivations in one single call. It should also be noted that this service is for reactivations only. If the client was not previously in SA, the normal SA registration process must be completed.  

This summer the Government published the revised National Development Plan (NDP) representing investment of €275.4 billion, the largest ever capital investment plan in the history of the State, to grow the Irish economy, protect jobs and enhance our competitiveness. It outlines how the Government will invest long term in the country’s development and infrastructure, both critical to Ireland’s competitiveness. 1 in 4 SMEs we surveyed reported that their business had lost employees or prospective employees due to the unavailability of affordable housing, and access to childcare is a persistent issue for many members, further impacting the supply of talent. Understanding how the revised NDP will impact businesses is critical for strategic planning, and we are delighted that Seán Fleming T.D., Chartered Accountant and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Infrastructure and NDP Delivery will join us for a free, in-person lunchtime event at 12.30 on Monday 3 November at Chartered Accountants House. This is the second in our “Trusted Business Leadership: The Chartered Roundtables” series, and it will be chaired by Pamela McCreedy, President, Chartered Accountants Ireland.

Yesterday’s Chartered Accountants Ireland roundtable on pensions auto-enrolment marked the launch of the “Trusted Business Leadership: The Chartered Roundtables” series. With a panel of industry experts and strong member attendance, the event delivered lively discussion and practical insights on Ireland’s most significant pension reform in over a century. Members engaged deeply, raising questions on cost burdens for SMEs, tax anomalies between MyFutureFund and occupational schemes, and the readiness of payroll systems for the January rollout. The panel addressed operational challenges, compliance, and communication, highlighting the need for clarity and support as the sector prepares for change. The event reinforced the Institute’s commitment to advocating for members and ensuring their voices shape policy. As auto-enrolment approaches, Chartered Accountants Ireland will continue to advocate for and support members through change, championing trusted business leadership.   Chartered Accountants Ireland’s inaugural “Trusted Business Leadership: The Chartered Roundtables” event brought members together to discuss the imminent rollout of pensions auto-enrolment (AE)—the most significant reform since the State Pension’s introduction in 1908. Executive Head of Public Policy, Jill Farrelly, opened the session, emphasising the Institute’s commitment to advocating for members during this period of change.  The expert panel—Tony Culhane (Sage), Shane O'Farrell (Irish Life Employer Solutions), and Crona Clohisey (Chartered Accountants Ireland) - explored the expected benefits of AE, including increased retirement savings and streamlined administration. Members’ questions reflected real-world concerns: the cost and administrative burden for SMEs, readiness of payroll systems, and the adequacy of contribution rates. The panel acknowledged that while NAERSA aims to minimise employer workload, many businesses still feel under-informed and are seeking practical guidance ahead of the January launch.  Tax anomalies between MyFutureFund and occupational schemes, eligibility rules (such as the 13-week look-back and €20K income threshold), and the operational readiness of systems were debated. Practical challenges for employees transitioning into occupational pension schemes were highlighted, with concerns about the availability of resources and support to facilitate this change.  The panel stressed the importance of clear communication and robust support for both employers and employees, especially SMEs and seasonal workers. International comparisons with schemes in the UK, New Zealand, and Australia provided valuable lessons on opt-outs, compliance, and enforcement.  Several important points emerged during the discussion:  If a senior executive (or any employee) has a private pension but is no longer actively contributing because they have reached the Revenue maximum fund limit they will still be auto-enrolled in MyFutureFund if they meet the age and income criteria and are not making payroll contributions to a qualifying scheme at the time of assessment. The auto-enrolment system checks for current contributions, not just the existence of a pension fund or past participation.  Correction rules for auto-enrolment differ from standard payroll amendments with Revenue. Employers must ensure that pension contributions are made on each pay date, and any missed or incorrect contributions must be corrected promptly- typically by the next pay date.  AE is expected to drive a major shift of employees into private pension schemes, with employers needing to review existing arrangements and communicate options clearly. The cost burden for SMEs remains a significant concern, as labour costs are already high and AE will increase this further. The investment return of MyFutureFund will likely be closely watched in the initial 6-month period, but participants were reminded that by its nature, it is a long-term investment vehicle.  International comparisons showed that while the Irish system is less burdensome for employers than some overseas schemes, it is also less flexible than international peers.    The discussion highlighted the Institute’s ongoing advocacy, with members’ feedback feeding directly into policy engagement.   The Chartered Roundtables will continue, with the next event focusing on infrastructure and the National Development Plan.  You can view photos from the event here.

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, IAASA has published Insights Podcast Episode 4 which looks at some key themes and insights from their 2025 Corporate Reporting Observations Document.  The National Cyber Security Centre in the UK has launched the Cyber Action Toolkit: a single destination for sole traders, micro businesses and small organisations to start building their cyber defences. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting Chartered Accountants Ireland has issued its response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s request for information on the post-implementation review of IFRS 16 - Leases. The Institute noted its general satisfaction with how the standard is operating and highlighted some areas where clarifications and additional guidance would be beneficial. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has issued its September Update. This summarises public technical discussions and decisions taken in the month. EFRAG has also issued its September Podcast. The IFRS Foundation has developed stand-alone modules for each section of the ‘IFRS for SMEs’ Accounting Standard and is in the process of updating these modules to reflect the amendments in the 2025 version of the Standard. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has published its Final Comment Letter in response to the IFRS Interpretations Committee Tentative Agenda Decision: Updates to Committee’s Agenda Decisions for IFRS 18. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) published its annual public statement  setting out the European common enforcement priorities for 2025 annual corporate reports. Auditing and Assurance IAASA has published an updated compendium of audit reports.  IAASA has published Insights Podcast Episode 4: which looks at some key themes and insights from their 2025 Corporate Reporting Observations Document. Sustainability The complete agenda for this year’s IFRS Sustainability Symposium taking place on 30 October 2025 is now available. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published the recording of Episode 12 of its 'Perspectives on sustainability disclosure' webinar titled 'Climate-related scenario analysis'. Anti-money laundering and Fraud Accountancy Europe has recently launched a new AML publication titled ‘7 principles for AML Regulatory Technical Standards Development.’ The European Banking Authority (EBA) published a report on tackling money laundering and terrorist financing (ML/TF) risks in crypto-asset services through supervision. The Report draws on lessons learnt from recent supervisory cases across the EU and highlights how competent authorities can strengthen their approaches to supervision in this fast-evolving sector. Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) The Central Bank of Ireland has announced a reduction in the Insurance Compensation Fund Levy to 1% which will take effect from 1st January 2026. Central Bank of Ireland Governor Gabriel Makhlouf recently spoke at the Atlantic Council during IMF World Bank Week regarding the ‘Trans-Atlantic economy: pathways and perceptions in an era of global fragmentation’. Artificial Intelligence The Apply AI Strategy was launched in October 2025 by the European Commission. It aims to harness AI’s transformative potential by increasing and supporting AI adoption and integration across key industrial and public sectors, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Strategy encourages an AI first policy where AI is considered as a potential solution whenever organisations make strategic or policy decisions, taking into careful consideration the benefits and the risks of the technology.  The European Commission launched the AI Act Single Information Platform and the AI Act Service Desk to support implementation of the AI Act and to provide resources and tools regarding the AI Act requirements.  Cybersecurity The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in the UK has launched the Cyber Action Toolkit: a single destination for sole traders, micro businesses and small organisations to start building their cyber defences. The UK Government is concerned enough about cyber risk to send a Ministerial letter on cyber security to CEOs and chairs in October 2025. In it they asked for 3 actions, make cyber risk a Board-level priority using the Cyber Governance Code of Practice, sign up to the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre Early Warning service, and require Cyber Essentials in the company’s supply chain. This is a government-backed scheme which certifies that organisations have key cyber protections in place to prevent common cyber-attacks. In addition, the NCSC in the UK published its Annual Review 2025 report highlighting that the cyber threats facing the UK continue to escalate and that cybersecurity is now a matter of business survival and national resilience. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in Ireland issued an alert regarding multiple vulnerabilities in Oracle E-Business Suite. The NCSC strongly recommends installing updates for vulnerable systems with the highest priority, after thorough testing. Affected organisations should review the latest release notes and install the relevant updates from Oracle Corporation in addition to conducting a compromise assessment. The UK NCSC has also published a similar alert on their website with links included to supporting tools and guidance. Autumn 2025 Legislation programme The Government issued its Autumn legislative Programme 2025 in September 2025. Pre-legislative scrutiny is underway on the National Cyber Security Bill which is listed for priority publication. As we have reported here previously, the Bill will transpose the EU Directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union into national law. The directive was due to be transposed by 17 October 2024, so Ireland is overdue in its implementation and is subject to European Commission infringement procedures for failure to implement. Readers might be interested to note that in the recent budget the allocation to the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration for the National Cyber Security Centre was increased by over 50% to €12 million (This is an increase of €4.1 million). This increased funding is due to the significant expansion in scope and role of the centre as a consequence of the NIS2 Directive and new national security powers from the National Cyber Security Bill. Heads are in preparation and priority drafting is signalled for the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence and Non-Personal Data Bill. This now appears to have been rolled into one the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill and EU Data Regulation Bill which were two separate bills in the Spring legislative programme. The overarching purpose of the Data Bill is to support innovation and economic growth. It creates a harmonised framework on fair access and use of data and clarifies who can create value from data and under which conditions. It will also give full effect in Ireland to the EU Regulation on Artificial Intelligence, including the establishment of the national AI central office. DETE recently noted there was a €25.5 million increase in current funding, bringing the Department’s allocation to €618 million, which will ensure the delivery of several new and emerging priorities, including establishing the AI Office of Ireland to drive Artificial intelligence adoption and proportionate regulation. Work is ongoing on a Central Bank (Amendment) Bill 2025 to transpose certain elements of the Sixth Anti-Money Laundering Directive of relevance to the Central Bank of Ireland, through amendment to the Central Bank Reform Act 2011 and/or the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013. Heads are in preparation for a bill to transpose the IDAS Directive. This is to make necessary legislative changes to provide for a digital wallet as required under the European Digital Identity Framework Regulation, which must be available to EU citizens by December 2026 for use on a voluntary basis for online and offline public services across the EU. Earlier this year the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality announced that the long-awaited gender pay gap reporting portal will be launched in autumn 2025. We note that heads are in preparation in the Autumn legislative programme of a Gender Pay Gap Information (Amendment) Bill to clarify the legislative basis for employers to report their gender pay gap to the Minister via a central online portal. There is no update in relation to the Co-operative Societies Bill on which work is stated to be ongoing nor on the legislation on limited partnerships and business names. Other news The Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, has announced a survey and public consultation seeking the views of stakeholders on the Directive (EU) 2024/2831 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2024 on improving working conditions in platform work (Platform Work Directive). The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has published a report with outlines a detailed analysis of the 7,258 charities registered by the Commission between December 2013 and July 2025. The Pensions Authority is conducting an anonymous online customer satisfaction survey which will remain open until close of business on Friday, 31 October 2025. The European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) published a warning for consumers regarding the risks and limited protection for certain crypto-assets and providers. The ESAs also published a factsheet on crypto-assets. The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) published an endorsement of joint guidelines with the European Commission regarding the interplay between the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). These are the first joint guidelines planned by the Board and the European Commission, which are now open to a joint public consultation.   The EDPB also published details of the 2026 selected topic for the coordinated enforcement framework as part of the annual priority set by the EDPB regarding a certain topic for Data Protection Authorities to work on at national level. The 2026 selected topic will focus on compliance with the obligations of transparency and information under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The European Commission’s Directorate General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA) recently commissioned a Study on Venture and Growth Capital Funds with the aim of identifying barriers to the scaling up of funds investing in innovative and growth- oriented companies. The published document is available to download here. The Finance Bill 2025 Explanatory Memorandum has been published. This implements the tax changes announced on Budget Day, as well as introducing some administrative and technical changes to the tax code. The 142-page document provides for amendments relating to the rate of VAT applying to the hospitality and hairdressing sectors, the Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings Scheme, the Participation Exemption for Foreign Dividends, and the rates of taxation that apply to investments in Irish domiciled funds and life assurance policies. It also provides for changes to existing measures to support enterprises and farming, individuals and households, as well as property-related measures. These include the Rent Tax Credit, VAT on the sale of apartments, Residential Zoned Land Tax, Benefit-in-Kind on motor vehicles, the Research and Development Tax Credit, and the Key Employee Engagement Programme. It also provides for amendments to certain Stamp Duty measures and an extension of the Bank Levy. Minister Burke updated the government on their initiatives on cutting red tape and simplifying processes.  From paperwork to progress: Government cuts red tape highlights the achievements made to date. The Joint Committee of the European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA - the ESAs) published its 2026 Work Programme, outlining key areas of collaboration for the coming year. The upcoming Programme aims to strengthen the financial system’s digital operational resilience under the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), ensure the continued protection of consumers, and identify risks that could undermine financial stability particularly in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions and heightened uncertainties. The European Banking Authority (EBA) published its annual report on convergence of supervisory practices for 2024 across the European Union (EU). The Report details the EBA’s extensive efforts to strengthen the alignment of supervisory approaches across Member States and across all dimensions of its activities including prudential, resolution, consumer protection, digital finance and, until the end of 2025, anti-money laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT). 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.

  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin, read about sustainability in Accountancy Ireland, the upcoming Government Supply Expo which will cover sustainable public procurement, and sustainability in NTMA’s institutional investor presentation. Also covered are the changes to sustainability reporting and the new ISO Standard on biodiversity for organisations, as well as the usual articles, resources and upcoming events.   Chartered Accountants Ireland These articles on sustainability were published in the October/November issue of Accountancy Ireland “It takes a lot of people working together to bring about real change” Chartered Star 2025 winner Sophie Sweeney talks to Susan Rossney, Sustainability Advocacy Manager with Chartered Accountants Ireland, about the future of sustainability in the profession and its impact on wider society   Beating the bills while protecting the planet Pinergy’s Daire Keating explains how all businesses can now combine affordability and sustainability when assessing their energy needs   Female representation in financial services on the rise As a proud signatory of the Ireland’s Women in Finance Charter, Chartered Accountants Ireland has called on the Government to take action to improve access to affordable childcare.  The latest annual report from Ireland’s Women in Finance Charter shows a marked rise in women in senior roles in financial services—but barriers to equal representation remain.   Chartered Accountants Ireland joins CAFA Chartered Accountants Ireland has joined Climate Action for Associations (CAFA), a network dedicated to net zero and sustainability for the membership sector. “Joining the CAFA Collective demonstrates Chartered Accountants Ireland’s commitment to drive stronger climate leadership,” Susan Rossney, the Institute’s Sustainability Advocacy Manager, said. “It empowers us to communicate our climate action intention internally and externally with key stakeholders. It is also aligned with the Institute’s Strategy 27, which is guided by values of accountability, excellence and openness, and shaping the future of business with integrity, and underpinned by a powerful principle: Trusted Business Leadership.”   IRELAND Green public procurement in Government Supply Expo 2025 Green public procurement is one of the topics that will feature in the Government Supply Expo 2025, an all-island procurement event taking place in the Aviva Stadium on 11 November. The event is being organised by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) and InterTradeIreland. Minister of State for Public Procurement, Digitalisation and eGovernment Emer Higgins has encouraged Irish businesses, particularly SMEs, micro and social enterprises to network, to attend the largest procurement event of the year, build collaborations and scope out upcoming procurement opportunities. Along with green and sustainable public procurement, topics to learn about include the tendering process, innovation, tendering tips and the supports and resources available to suppliers. Sustainability in NTMA’s institutional investor presentation The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) has published the latest version of its presentation for institutional investors, with information on Ireland’s energy mix, highlights on Irish Sovereign Green Bond Impact Report, policy on just transition and biodiversity. You can view the full presentation here.   EUROPE Changes to sustainability reporting The Legal Affairs Committee of the European Parliament has approved its position on a series of changes to sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements for companies. These changes are to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and are part of the Omnibus I Simplification Package which is aimed at reducing the regulatory burden on businesses. Among the changes are that the CSRD would apply only to companies with more than 1,000 employees and €450 million in annual turnover, and the CSDDD will apply only to companies with 5,000+ employees and €1.5 billion in turnover.  There will be no EU-wide civil liability framework, and while climate transition plans remain mandatory, companies will no longer be required to outline specific implementing actions. Instead, they must make reasonable efforts to align their business models with EU climate legislation and the goals of the Paris Agreement. The next steps are for Parliament to approve the committee mandate at the next plenary session, after which MEPs and EU governments will start negotiations on the final text of the legislation on 24 October.   WORLD New ISO Standard on biodiversity for organisations The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) has launched the world’s first International Standard dedicated to helping organizations take action on biodiversity.  ISO 17298: Biodiversity for organizations – Guidelines and Requirements is a new standard providing, for the first time, a practical, scalable framework to help organizations assess their biodiversity impacts, dependencies, risks and opportunities. Commenting, ISO Head of Sustainability and Partnerships, Noelia Garcia Nebra, said “Many organizations see the urgency of biodiversity action, but navigating the path can be complex. Until now, there has been no globally agreed standard for organizations to integrate biodiversity into their strategies and operations… The standard embeds biodiversity into core governance and risk management practices - not just sustainability reporting - ensuring alignment with global expectations and organizational operations.” The new standard is designed to be interoperable with other widely used initiatives such as ISO 14001, ISO 26000, TNFD, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and contributes directly to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly Target 15 on corporate action.         Resources The Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) has released Scaling Finance for Nature: A Primer on What Financial Institutions Are Doing Today, showing  how nature recovery finance or ‘greening finance’ to avoid and minimise harm to nature, as well as restoring nature to no net loss, can happen today and at scale with existing private commercial capital, through the everyday actions of financiers. The primer identifies one prerequisite step and four levers of change that financial institutions can use to achieve this – illustrated with concrete, real-life examples of them already in use.  The primary audience for this primer is practitioners in financial institutions, with concrete examples from across the sector (banks, investors, insurers).   Accountancy Europe has published its October Sustainability update with the following highlights: European Commission de-prioritises certain delegated acts European Commission delivers on ITS and RTS under Green Bond Regulation Council endorses agreement on EU carbon leakage mechanism Ministers discuss 2040 climate target ESMA’s letter on EFRAG’s revised ESRS   Articles This September was the third-warmest on record, coming in at a global average of 16.11 degrees Celsius (Copernicus) Why pension funds are still pushing for climate action - Long-term asset owners have bucked the financial sector trend of retreat on green goals (FT)     Events International Society of Sustainability Professionals Webinar: AI in Action: Practical Tools for Corporate Sustainability Impact Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming how organizations collect data, measure impact, and drive sustainability performance—but it can be difficult to separate the hype from the real-world applications. This session will explore how corporate sustainability professionals can leverage AI to work smarter, not harder. Virtual, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT) NESC, NESC Energy Conference 2025: Energising the Transition This conference follows the publication of NESC’s reports Ireland’s Future Power System and Economic Resilience, International Trade Dependencies and the Energy Transition, and Connecting People to the Energy Transition, as well as the forthcoming Energy Transition: A Systems Perspective. The in-person event builds on this extensive body of work and incorporates inputs from national and international experts to provide stimulating discussions of how Ireland can make the necessary transition for the good of all people and sectors. In person, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin 2, 22 October, 8.30-15.45 A4S Insights,  Integrating sustainability into decision making – stories of impact Discover what it takes to drive change in finance at this online event featuring winners of the Finance for the Future Awards. Hear how bold sustainability actions are transforming organisations, and learn from the challenges and successes of real-world changemakers. A panel of judges will share insights into what makes an effective sustainability leader, offering practical lessons in resilience, collaboration, and impact that attendees can apply in their own organisations. Virtual, 29 October 2025, 16:00 GMT Sustainability Europe, Sustainability Europe 2025 This in-person event in London brings together finance professionals and sustainability experts to explore how organisations can navigate regulatory uncertainty, climate risk, and supply chain complexity while driving sustainable growth. A highlight of the programme is the A4S-led panel chaired by Ciara Burke, Director of CFO Programme Europe, which will focus on strengthening collaboration between finance and sustainability teams to improve reporting outcomes. In person, London, UK, 21–22 October 2025, 08:40–17:50;  A4S Session: Detangle the regulation web and master interoperability Date and time: 21 October 2025, 15:15–15:50 BST Ibec Networks Autumn Seminar Series, Session 4: The culture of sustainability innovation The final webinar in a four-part series Autumn Seminar Series ‘The culture equation’ looks at what supports are available to assist on a journey to becoming a more sustainable business. In the supporting case study from O'Brien's Fine Foods the webinar will discuss what drives a sustainability focused culture in an organisation. Virtual, Thursday 13 November, 11.00-11.50am     Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

On 14 October, the Ulster Society hosted a webinar titled: 'Industry Insights into the Evolving Cyber Threat Landscape', providing a practical and accessible overview of the most pressing cybersecurity threats facing organisations today. Speakers on the webinar included Puneet Kujkera, EY Ireland Head of Cyber; Sam Cheshire, Head of Cyber, Gallagher UK & Ireland; and Kyle Glancy, Group Product Manager, Proofpoint. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE

In Irish news, Revenue has announced plans for the roll out of electronic invoicing for VAT and real time VAT reporting, and Revenue has also provided clarification on the 2024 income tax return disclosure requirements for employer PRSA contributions. In UK news, the Institute has responded to the House of Lords call for evidence on the latest Finance Bill draft clauses and the Institute recently participated in an event which explored the complex issues arising from cross-border working. In International news this week, the European parliament proposes a simplified tax architecture to benefit EU citizens and businesses. Ireland 1. Revenue has announced plans for the implementation of the VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) requirements. 2. Read about the additional information provided by Revenue on the disclosure of employer PRSA contribution.   UK 3. In our submission to the House of Lords inquiry into Finance Bill 2025-26, the Institute continues to recommend that the Government needs to reframe its policy changes on agricultural property relief and business property relief. 4. The Institute was represented last week at an event in London which examined the complexity of global mobility, including tax implications and other key considerations.   International 5. The European Parliament has adopted a resolution on the role of simple tax rules and tax fragmentation in European competitiveness. Keep up to date with all the latest Irish, UK, and international tax developments through Chartered Accountants Ireland’s Tax Newsletter. Subscribe to the Tax News by updating your preferences in MyAccount. You can also read this week’s Cross-border developments and trading corner here.  

Earlier this week, the Institute’s Northern Ireland Tax Committee wrote to new the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Dan Tomlinson MP to highlight a range of tax policy and tax administration recommendations and concerns ahead of the next Budget on Wednesday 26 November. In our Pre-Budget Submission, the Institute continues to press the Government to reframe the draft legislation on agricultural property relief and business property relief given the disproportionate impact this will have on family-owned farms and businesses in Northern Ireland (NI). The Institute’s UK Tax Manager, Leontia Doran, is scheduled to deliver oral evidence on this issue on Monday 20 October to the House of Lords Finance Bill Sub-Committee as part of its inquiry into the draft Finance Bill 2025-26 clauses. The Institute is telling the Government that it is not too late to reframe this policy ahead of April 2026. However, if the Government is not willing to do so, we continue to recommend that a specific carve out from the rules is included in the draft legislation to protect NI. Given how deeply connected agriculture is throughout the island of Ireland, the unique circumstances of NI farmers cannot be ignored and must be addressed. The cross-border nature of NI’s agri-food industry, where Ireland is its largest export market, means that NI needs to remain competitive in order to be able to serve its largest market, particularly if its dual market access to the EU is to grow to its true potential. This will only be achieved via a coherent tool kit of economic policies, not the least of which should include pro-business and pro-family succession tax reliefs. It is for this reason that the Government should exclude NI from these changes. The Committee also highlighted a range of other issues in the submission as follows: The campaign to reduce the rate of corporation tax in NI, The tax burden and complexity arising from cross-border and remote/hybrid working on the island of Ireland, Tax simplification and the lack of progress in this area, Making Tax Digital for Income Tax and the implementation of mandatory tax adviser registration from 1 April 2026, and The ongoing need for climate and environmental objectives to feature significantly in UK budgets, which includes a range of tax policy recommendations.

From the Professional Accountancy team…... The Apply AI Strategy was launched in October 2025 by the European Commission. It aims to harness AI’s transformative potential by increasing and supporting AI adoption and integration across key industrial and public sectors, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Strategy encourages an AI first policy where AI is considered as a potential solution whenever organisations make strategic or policy decisions, taking into careful consideration the benefits and the risks of the technology.  The European Commission has also launched the AI Act Single Information Platform and the AI Act Service Desk to support implementation of the AI Act and to provide resources and tools regarding the AI Act requirements.           

The Finance Directorate at Queen’s University Belfast has launched a new graduate trainee programme in partnership with Chartered Accountants Ireland.  The graduates will work towards a chartered accountancy qualification with the Institute while gaining invaluable, hands-on experience in the workplace at Queen’s, with the technical expertise, commercial awareness and professional skills needed for a successful career in accountancy. Photographed at the front of the Lanyon are four of the graduate trainees: Laura McCullough, Zoe Taylor, Nicole Woods and Hannah Wylie, as well as Queen’s Vice-President and Chief Finance and Resources Officer, Patrick Anderson, and Director of Finance, Matthew Graham, with Zara Duffy, Executive Head of Global Engagement at Chartered Accountants Ireland, and Sinead Fox-Hamilton, Relationship and Professional Development Manager, Chartered Accountants Ireland. Speaking about the new Programme, Zara Duffy, Chartered Accountants Ireland said: “We’re delighted to work with Queen’s University on this new graduate trainee programme. The trainees will benefit from first-class experience in their role at the Finance Directorate and can work towards becoming fully qualified chartered accountants at the same time.  “We’re very keen to work with employers to find ways to empower their graduates and help them to carve out a rewarding career in chartered accountancy.”