A promise by the tax authorities to resolve people’s concerns “as quickly as possible” and treat them with “courtesy” is now etched in a document outlining taxpayers’ rights and obligations.

The Taxpayer Charter, launched yesterday by Finance Minister Tonio Fenech, asserts taxpayers’ right to access information held by tax departments about them.

The charter outlines what taxpayers can expect from the departments and what is expected of taxpayers.

“The aim of the charter is that of nurturing the relationship between the revenue departments and the community they serve, a relationship of mutual trust and respect,” the charter itself says.

Taxpayers have a right to be treated as honest and tax compliant unless there is evidence to the contrary. They also have a right to be assisted by the tax departments and be advised or represented by any person on taxation matters.

The charter outlines a number of obligations taxpayers have, including that of keeping records in accordance with the law, being honest and cooperative when dealing with tax departments.

The charter was launched during an international seminar organised by the Malta Institute of Management.

Mr Fenech said it was important for tax departments to provide a just and efficient service while being tough with those who evaded taxes.

He said information sharing between EU countries was important to curb tax evasion. “An effective system of fiscal cooperation at an administrative level in Europe is necessary to reduce evasion and important for Malta not to experience a drop in revenue,” Mr Fenech said.

Revenue from taxation amounted to 35 per cent of GDP, Mr Fenech added, which was below the European average of 37 per cent. He said Malta had one of the lowest income tax rates for individuals.