Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Jan 1995

Vol. 448 No. 1

Written Answers. - Car Sales.

Ivor Callely

Question:

59 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Finance the number of used motor vehicles imported from the United Kingdom for each of the years 1990 to 1994; if this importation is affecting car sales in Ireland; and the measures, if any, he will take to address this matter. [1652/95]

Ivor Callely

Question:

60 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Finance the number and amount of vehicle registration tax paid in 1994; and if he will give a breakdown of new and used cars imported from the United Kingdom. [1653/95]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 59 and 60 together.

Comprehensive information on the numbers of cars imported from the United Kingdom is not available at present. However, I am arranging to have this information made available, in so far as this is possible. I will communicate further with the Deputy in the matter.

Because of the many other factors at play in determining the level of car sales here, it is not possible to say, with any conviction, whether or to what extent second-hand imports are having an effect. It can be argued that, given the age and value profile of such importations, the level of new car sales is unlikely to be significantly affected. However, industry interests contend that the importations, through their impact on the indigenous second-hand market, depress new car sales. It should be noted though that new car sales recovered strongly in 1994, rising by 25 per cent year-on-year, reflecting strong consumer confidence and low interest rates. In preparation for the forthcoming budget, I will be examining carefully the various proposals I have received in relation to the motor industry.

In 1994, 158,767 vehicles were registered for VRT and £272 million was paid.