Trevor Sargent
Question:64 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance the plans, if any, he has to introduce a carbon tax during the term of this Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7540/96]
Written Answers. - Carbon Tax Proposal.
In my Budget Statement I indicated that:
The tax system can clearly play a key role in environmental policy and in eliminating activities which destroy our environment and deplete natural resources. I have therefore directed my Department, in conjunction with other relevant Departments and agencies, to examine the strategic impact of taxation on environmental policy and to bring specific tax measures for the 1997 budget which will have due regard to competitiveness considerations.
Work in this regard is continuing and I can assure the Deputy that the question of carbon taxation is receiving due consideration in this process.
As for EU developments in this area, as it was not possible to reach agreement on previous Commission proposals, the ECOFIN Council recently agreed to ask the Commission to submit new proposals to it in this field as soon as possible for consideration.