Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Jan 1995

Vol. 448 No. 1

Written Answers. - Budgetary Measures.

Dermot Ahern

Question:

51 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the better economic climate prevailing in the Border areas in the past few years; if he will ensure in a budgetary context that no adverse measures are taken to reverse this trend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1125/95]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn)

I presume the Deputy is referring mainly to indirect taxation.

I am both aware and pleased that the Border areas are sharing in the general economic improvement experienced here over the past few years. Indeed, I would hope that, in the new climate of peace, the economic situation in the Border areas will strengthen further. I am also conscious that the narrowing of tax differences between North and South has been an important contributory factor in the improvement being recorded. Consequently, in framing my budgetary proposals, to be presented to the House on 8 February next, I will be bearing in mind the need to avoid actions which could result in cross-Border trade and revenue diversion.

As for direct taxes which affect competitiveness on a cross border basis, the programme of tax reform set out in the Government'sProgramme for Renewal will address this problem over a number of budgets.