WTF????
This gets to something that is a real problem with the IRS. They hire people right out of college and are expected to go up against seasoned really good accountants and lawyers. Anyone that starts with the IRS that's really good, gets hired into the private sector for a lot more money.
So, I can understand their feelings here. But, it's not a good excuse to not try.
And...if the tax code were to be simplified, it would make their jobs a lot easier.