The leader of the Green Party has said the Government should not appeal the Apple tax ruling.

Earlier this week the European Commission found Apple’s tax deal with Ireland illegal and ordered the tech giant to pay €13bn, plus interest, in back taxes. The total figure is about €19bn.

The Dáil will be recalled on Wednesday to rubberstamp the Cabinet’s decision to appeal the ruling.

However, Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan said the appeal was ill-advised.

“The Government said two things on Friday. They said they would appeal. I don’t think we’ll win first of all.

“Secondly, they said they want to lead in terms of tax justice. It’s a bit like the principle – Lord make me virtuous, but not quite yet.

“It’s not the clever business approach, I don’t think.”