Motor Taxation.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 February 2006

Tuesday, 7 February 2006

Questions (446)

Joe Higgins

Question:

533 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason motorists, who are obliged by financial constraints to pay their motor tax on a quarterly basis, should have to pay substantially more than if they could afford to make a single payment for their yearly motor tax; and if this iniquitous situation will be changed. [4005/06]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The surcharge on non-annual discs is designed to cover the higher administrative costs involved. Current surcharge levels are lower than those permitted under motor tax law, and were slightly reduced in 2001. My Department will continue to keep the level of surcharge under review in light of the expansion of e-motor tax arrangements.