New figures comparing corporation tax revenues in Scotland and Ireland have reignited debate over Scotland’s economic future, with supporters of independence pointing to Ireland’s performance as evidence of what a small independent nation can achieve.

Statistics produced by the Scottish Parliament Information Centre show Ireland collected €33 billion in corporation tax during 2024 to 2025.

By comparison, Scotland generated £7.8 billion in corporation tax revenue, a figure higher than every part of the UK except London but significantly behind Ireland.

The figures come as the National Institute of Economic and Social Research has forecast a further £24 billion shortfall in the UK’s public finances by the end of the decade compared with projections made at the Spring Statement earlier this year.

The comparison has prompted fresh calls from the SNP for Scotland to pursue independence, arguing that Ireland demonstrates the economic opportunities available to small European nations.

Commenting on the figures, SNP MSP and former MEP Alyn Smith said:

“The undoubted success of Ireland is a mere glimpse into the wealth of an independent Scotland.

“While Scotland outperforms all parts of the UK outside of London, when we look across the Irish Sea there is a clear example of what a small independent, European and Celtic nation can achieve.

“Broken, Brexit Britain is in terminal decline and Andy Burnham is fast running into that reality, but it does not have to be that way for Scotland.

“Through a fresh start with independence, we can take control of our energy resources and entice businesses to make Scotland their home, that’s how we build a wealthier Scotland anew.

“With the First Ministers of Scotland, Wales and North Ireland all committed to an independent future, recognising a more prosperous future away from Westminster, there is a Celtic connection across these islands no Westminster Prime Minister can ignore.”