Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 26 Apr 1990

Vol. 397 No. 10

Written Answers. - Motor Taxation Delays.

Phil Hogan

Question:

36 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to delays at motor taxation offices throughout the country in meeting the demands of motorists directly through the local authority; if he will consider allowing other outlets to carry out this work; and, in particular, whether An Post would be capable of doing the duties performed at present.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Flynn)

At present there are no undue delays generally on the part of motor tax offices in dealing with motorists.

Certain temporary delays arose following the introduction of the new Eurostyle driving licence last November. In many cases licences are now issued within a few days. Delays seldom exceed two weeks.

Since 1987 a significant proportion of motorists renew their motor tax, post free. The vehicle registration unit of my Department computer-issue forms reminding vehicle owners to renew motor tax about two weeks in advance of the expiry of existing tax discs. The reminder notice can be used as a tax renewal form and it contains preprinted details of the vehicle, including the appropriate quarterly, half-yearly and annual rate of tax. The form is accompanied by a post-paid reply envelope, addressed to the local motor tax office.

I understand that personal callers to motor tax offices are dealt with expeditiously and that delays of any significance occur only at peak times, generally at the beginning and end of the month.

I have no proposals at present to have the functions of motor tax offices carried out by any other agency.