Anybody who knows me is aware that I nearly always support the Civil/Public Service personnel in everything. It's the Trade Union Rep. in me. However, many people working in Revenue are inquisitive by nature and dare I say some for some reason or other are zealous chasing income. This zealot nature can lead to over the top approach especially to those vulnerable. For example my parents were of the opinion "Of course it must be true, the Revenue Commissioners Official informed me . . ." Furthermore, those in Revenue are human and mistakes can be made.
People in Revenue are aware that many supply false information to them. Many understate their income and it is up to Revenue to separate the chaff from the wheat. Sometimes, they keep the chaff. Afterall, they are human.
I reckon career advancement can be enhanced in Revenue by some collecting taxes that are not due. Ask any good financial advisor, if you don't believe me. There is an appeals process for those who feel they have been over taxed. If all in Revenue was beyond approach why is there a Tax Appeals Process? Ask yourself how long does the Appeals Process take? (Would you believe two years?). It is obvious there must be many people in Ireland not happy with their tax payable assessments.
The Ombudsman is also used by people who believe they have been short-changed by Revenue.
Asking Revenue for favourable tax advice is like on the Somme having a British Army Officer asking his German counterpart, if it is OK to mount a surprise attack tomorrow at dawn. Use a Financial Advisor to act for you. It costs, but it is the best way forward.