asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the hardship imposed on cricket clubs because of the cost of cricket balls; and if he will consider removing any duties or levies on them until such time as they are manufactured in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Duties on Cricket Balls.
I am aware that cricket balls, in common with a wide range of other requisites for sports and games, are liable to an ordinary customs duty of 15 per cent. ad valorem (10 per cent. preferential rate) and also to Special Import Levy at 60 per cent. ad valorem (40 per cent. preferential rate). In the case of the ordinary duty there is provision for the issue of duty-free licences where recommended by the Minister for Industry and Commerce. There is no similar licensing provision in the case of Special Import Levy. The question of the need for retaining the Special Import Levies under their various headings is kept constantly under review.