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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Nov 1972

Vol. 263 No. 12

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Road Transport Legislation.

20.

Mr. O'Donnell

asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he has received recent representations from organisations representing the licensed road transport industry regarding the implications of EEC regulations for Irish licensed hauliers; if so, whether he proposes to introduce new legislation governing road transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Representations regarding the implications of membership of the EEC for licensed hauliers in this country have recently been made to me and these are at present under consideration.

In my reply to a previous question by the Deputy on 21st June, 1972, I indicated that it would appear that under the regulations, directives and decisions made by the Community to date, no major changes in current transport legislation would be involved. This still remains the position. It will, of course, be necessary to implement some of the provisions of the EEC legislation governing the transport sector by way of ministerial regulations under the European Communities Bill.

Can the Minister say what bearing such regulations will have on transport?

In the transport area they are very much under discussion. No firm conclusions have been reached but we will be involved in any such firm conclusions.

Mr. O'Donnell

Is the Minister aware that the implications for the road transport industry in respect of EEC membership are much more serious than the Minister realises and that as from the 1st January the entire haulage industry in this country will be in a disadvantageous position vis-á-vis its counterparts in Britain and on the Continent because the Irish road transport industry must pay higher road tax and they get a much lower rebate on trading than do their counterparts in the places I have mentioned? Will the Minister take steps to rectify the situation?

This is a different area. The question of the harmonisation of taxation is one that will take some time to iron out between all member countries.

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