Phil Hogan
Question:57 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance his views on the proposal by the EC to introduce a transport tax for using the community's motorways from January, 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - EC Transport Tax.
In the context of discussions on the harmonisation of the taxation arrangements for heavy goods vehicles, the EC Commission have recently proposed that member states should have the right to levy user charges on visiting vehicles using motorways. As the implications are still being examined, it would be premature to adopt a definitive position on the proposal at this stage. I have to say, however, that, viewed from the perspective of a peripheral member state, I would have serious reservations about any measure which could put Irish hauliers at a disadvantage in operating within other member states.