Written Answers. - Plastic Bags.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:
110
Mr. Broughan
asked the
Minister for the Environment and Local Government
when the proposed levy on plastic bags will come into operation; the steps being taken to ensure that retailers provide shoppers with alternatives to plastic bags; if it is intended to apply the levy on a pro rata basis, to other larger plastic bags, such as those used for fertilisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[24744/00]
John Gormley
Question:
147
Mr. Gormley
asked the
Minister for the Environment and Local Government
when the proposed levy on plastic bags will be introduced; the legislative vehicle to be used to introduce the levy; and if that legislation is currently being drawn up.
[24846/00]
Ivan Yates
Question:
343
Mr. Yates
asked the
Minister for the Environment and Local Government
if it is still his intention to proceed with the tax on plastic bags; the way in which and when it is proposed to implement this; the likely estimated revenue expected to be yielded from this measure; and the steps he has taken to facilitate alternative arrangements for consumers instead of the use of plastic bags.
[25062/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 110, 147 and 343 together.
The Government has agreed to the introduction by the Revenue Commissioners of a levy on plastic shopping bags manufactured in Ireland, or imported, for use in the Irish market. This measure requires primary legislation, and the Government further decided that the necessary legislative provision should be incorporated into the earliest available legislative vehicle. At this time, the next Finance Bill is likely to be the earliest suitable vehicle for this purpose, and the legislative provisions will be prepared in that context. It is the intention to implement the levy as early as possible in 2001.
The supply side measure referred to above will be complemented by a mandatory point of sale charge to be made by retailers, to ensure that the impact of the levy is fully passed on to consumers. The enabling provision in this regard will be incorporated in regulations to be made under the Waste Management Act, 1996.
The primary purpose of the proposed measures is to directly influence consumer behaviour and achieve a significant reduction in the consumption of plastic shopping bags dispensed at retail outlets, because of their significance as a highly visible component of litter. It follows, therefore, that revenue from the levy would be proportionate to the impact and success of the proposed measures and, for that reason, cannot reliably be estimated.
It is a matter for decision by retailers whether and to what extent they are prepared to provide customers with alternatives to plastic shopping bags. It will of course be open to customers to utilise reusable bags or other containers for shopping purposes, and thereby avoid exposure to the proposed levy. I make a distinction between plastic shopping bags, and plastic bags used as primary packaging for products such as fertiliser. I have no proposals at this time to levy such primary packaging.
Question No. 111 taken with Question No. 96.
