IRS resignations could be a protest

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IRS resignations could be a protest

Three top-level officials in the US Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) LB&I department have resigned in the space of one week, leading tax professionals to question whether the moves are a response to some kind of internal restructuring.

Mike Danilak announced his resignation, effective from July 2. Shortly after Danilak’s announcement, Samuel Maruca also resigned, effective from August 1. And Diana Wollman, director of strategy and reporting to Danilak, has also handed in her resignation.

Three high-level resignations in such a short space of time can surely not be coincidence.

On Tuesday it was also announced that LB&I’s top domestic person also was leaving - Laura Prendergast, the LB&I acting deputy commissioner. 

“Something has happened but I don’t know what,” said one adviser. “I’m sure it will come out in time. Whatever it is, it’s not good. The departing international officials, in particular, have a done a very good job and will be missed. It’s also not a good time for these high-level departures given all the BEPS stuff that’s going on.”

Douglas O'Donnell, LB&I assistant deputy commissioner will take over for Danilak in the interim.

 

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