Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
138. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Finance if he will divert a percentage of any taxes raised through consumption taxes on tobacco or high sugar or fat products towards an oral healthcare programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37773/13]
View answerOn the question of earmarking revenue for specific purposes, as a matter of principle, I am opposed to the hypothecation of taxes as it reduces the flexibility of Government to prioritise and allocate funds as deemed necessary at a particular time. It is, however, important to note that to date there are no specific taxes on high fat or sugar products. With regard to diverting tax raised on tobacco products, the Deputy will be aware that there is an agreement in place for a number of years whereby €168 million from revenue on tobacco is transferred to the HSE for health-related purposes.
