Vol. 527 No. 2
35 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance his views on the suggestion made in the recent OECD review of Ireland's environmental record that more use should be made of eco-taxation; the plans he is considering for such eco-taxes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28006/00]
I am aware of the conclusions and recommendations contained in the First OECD Environmental Performance Review of Ireland, which was received recently. Like all reports received from the OECD, its contents are being examined by the relevant divisions within my Department.
As I have informed the House on a previous occasion, taxation can play a part in attaining environmental goals. As Minister for Finance, I am concerned to ensure that tax measures take into account the effect on Ireland's international competitiveness, particularly in relation to non-EU countries which compete with us and which may have low taxes on energy. I am also concerned in framing policy about the effect that the imposition such taxes may have on the consumer price index and how they could impact on the less well off members of our community.
