Published on the 29/07/2014 | Written by Newsdesk
The group is designed to offer a forum where outside perspectives can be shared and views exchanged in a free and frank manner between the ICT sector and the Inland Revenue…
Inland Revenue is taking a deliberately slow approach to its up to $1.7 billion, 10-year Business Transformation project, saying it is not just a computer system change but a process overhaul and that it wants to have the time to consult with taxpayers and relevant industry bodies. At a recent event that focused on the project, Revenue Minister Todd McClay said that IRD had established a reference group of finance industry specialists to offer advice. Today the IRD announced it is seeking nominations from the New Zealand technology sector for a similar IT industry reference group in a bid to avoid another a Novopay situation.
The Information Communications Technology (ICT) Reference Group, as it will be called, will be made up of New Zealand ICT professionals with relevant expertise and experience. The move will likely be welcomed by Xero founder and general technology poster boy Rod Drury. At a political panel discussion last week expressed his frustration that Government would not accept industry help, at one point saying the local technology community could take $500 million out of the IRD’s project today if it were allowed to.
Today Inland Revenue’s deputy commissioner of change, Greg James, who will chair the group, said it would help make sure the programme achieved its aim to make paying taxes and receiving entitlements easier and more efficient for all New Zealanders.
“With this group we’re looking for outside perspectives and for an open and frank exchange of views between the ICT sector and Inland Revenue.”
James said group members would be selected for their ability and willingness to represent the views and the voice of the wider ICT community and being able to identify issues and common problems affecting the ICT community.
“We’re excited about working with a variety of people with the right skills and experiences,” he said. “I’d also like to acknowledge the New Zealand Technology Industry Association, and its chair Bennett Medary, for their guidance and support in helping Inland Revenue establish this new group.”
The first meeting will be held in October 2014 and people who are interested in being on the Reference Group should email BTCommunications@ird.govt.nz for a copy of the Terms of Reference.
Nominations close on Friday 15 August 2014.
