Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 7

Written Answers. - Waste Recycling.

John Gormley

Question:

193 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to reports that the recycling rate for demolition waste in Denmark rose from 12 per cent to 82 per cent in the period since 1985 in response to the imposition of tax designed to have that effect; if he will consider including the imposition of similar tax in his forthcoming budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15225/98]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am not aware of the reports the Deputy refers to which relate to the Danish experience.

I am aware of taxes that are imposed on landfill, including demolition waste, in other countries, not least the landfill tax which applies in the United Kingdom.

The issue of landfill taxation is a matter that will be examined in the run-up to the budget, as is the case with all other tax proposals which arise from time to time.