Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 May 1995

Vol. 453 No. 4

Written Answers. - Northern Registered Cars.

Dermot Ahern

Question:

52 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the difficulty whereby residents of the Republic of Ireland who have been appointed as sales representatives for Northern Ireland companies and who are obliged to use company cars are unable to do so in view of current legislation regarding the driving of northern-registered cars in the Republic; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that these people feel that, as European citizens, they should be free to take up such a job opportunity anywhere in Europe and should not be discriminated against in view of vehicle registration laws; the plans, if any, he has to change the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7228/95]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn)

Under the rules in force, persons resident in the State may not use in the State cars registered in other EU member states. This provision is necessary to protect the vehicle registration tax which is an important source of revenue for the Exchequer. While, in certain circumstances, persons may use foreign registered cars in the State on a temporary basis, this exemption applies essentially to persons resident outside the State for purposes of VRT.

I have no plans for changes in these rules at present, but their operation is being kept under review by my Department in consultation with the Revenue Commissioners.