asked the Minister for Local Government if he has received a request from the Road Transport Association to reduce the amount of road tax at present levied on licensed carriers and hauliers in this country to conform with the tax system operating in EEC countries; the action the Government propose to take in this matter; and the current amount accruing annually from such tax.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Road Tax.
148.
I am aware that the association have made representations on this matter to the Minister for Transport and Power.
There is at present no uniform system of road taxes operating within the existing EEC. Ireland will, as a member of the enlarged Community, participate fully in the evolution of a common transport policy, including any revisions of road taxes that may be agreed on for application throughout the Community in due course. I mentioned this in introducing the Estimate for my Department recently.
The income from motor vehicle licence duty on all goods vehicles amounted to £3,673,000 during the year ended 31st March, 1972, the last year for which annual returns are available. Separate figures are not available in respect of goods vehicles operated by licensed carriers and hauliers.
Does the Minister consider that the system of road taxation is completely unjust and, in view of the fact that so many representations have been made to him and to his Department, would he consider introducing instead a tax or a levy on the fuel used?
I will consider all matters suggested to me in relation to road taxation.
Tht Minister must be the greatest considerer of all time.