Receipts of corporation tax ran 206.5% ahead of forecast in February, according to the latest Exchequer Return published by the Department of Finance.

The Department notes that January and February are relatively small collection months for corporation tax. However, last month the Exchequer took in €314 million more in this tax than it had expected.

Overall, the Exchequer recorded a surplus of just over €1 billion at the end of February, with tax revenue running 13.8% ahead of the same period last year. Income tax returns were strongly ahead by 14.6% year-on-year.

The Department's Fiscal Monitor also notes election expenses of €15.8 million for the period which included the general election.