Irish politicians are accusing Apple CEO Tim Cook of snubbing the country's legislature, and by association the entirety of Ireland, by declining an invitation to answer questions about the European Union's recent tax ruling.

Cook, along with other high-ranking Apple executives, were last month invited by Chairman of the Oireachtas all-party Finance Committee, John McGuinness, to take part in a series of hearings relating to an EU tax decision that saddled Apple with a $14.5 billion penalty. 

Apple recently informed the committee that Cook would not attend, vaguely citing the complex legal machinations in play, reports The Independent.

"As you will appreciate, this is a complex and challenging issue, and one on which we are receiving ongoing legal counsel. We are engaging with the Department of Finance and The Revenue Commissions, as well as the European Commission," Claire Thwaites, director of Apple EMEIA government affairs, said in a written response. 

"Disappointed and angry at Apple decision to refuse to attend Finance Committee. Legal excuse doesn't add up-others involved attending!," he said. "Will push Committee to ask Apple to reconsider. Tim Cook attended Senate hearings and claimed a deal was in place. Dail deserves same respect."

Doherty is likely referring to EU Commissioner for Competition, Margrethe Vestager, who is slated to explain and defend the tax ruling at Ireland's hearings next month.

Both Apple and Ireland are appealing the ruling. In the coming weeks the company will likely have to pony up the $14.5 billion sum, which will be held in escrow as the potentially years-long appeals process moves forward.

Source: appleinsider