I propose to take Questions Nos. 755 and 756 together.
I am aware of this measure, and in particular of the HGV Road User Levy Bill. It is a matter for any State to introduce road use charges if it wishes, and this is an important option in relation to funding of roads infrastructure, which can benefit both national and international users of the roads in question.
I have been in contact with my counterpart in the United Kingdom, both in response to the initial public consultation and more recently, to point out that the contribution made to date by the Irish Government towards roads infrastructure costs in the United Kingdom (namely in relation to the A5 in Northern Ireland) should be taken into account and some provision therefore be made in relation use of roads by Irish-registered HGVs. The UK Minister has recently responded, indicating a willingness to consider certain specified roads in Northern Ireland.
There are no plans at present to introduce a similar pay-as-you-go road user charge for HGVs in Ireland. Such a decision would have cross Governmental implications and could only be taken after an extensive consideration. However, the National Roads Authority has carried out preliminary work on the issue of HGV road charging detailing the options available given that there are a number of European Directives in this area; the international experience and trends on road user charging; and the issues that will need to be considered in an Irish context. I recently received this report and am currently considering it and the appropriate follow up actions to be taken if it is decided there is merit in this proposal.
