Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2014
112. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding car tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5743/14]
View answerThe new arrangements for declaring a vehicle off the road are provided for in the Non-Use of Motor Vehicles Act 2013. The Act commenced on 1 July 2013 and provided for a three month transition period to the end of September 2013 to allow motorists to bring their motor tax status up to date.
During the transition period , a procedure was put in place to allow those who were abroad, and not in a position to return to the country before 30 September, to put their motor tax affairs in order by nominating a friend or relative to attend at a Garda Station on their behalf to have the required form stamped in respect of a past period of non-use. This arrangement was publicised in Ireland and notified to the various bodies dealing with the Irish abroad. It was also open to any person looking after a vehicle for a friend or relative abroad to advise that person of the new requirements for declaring a vehicle off the road and of the transitional arrangements.
The new arrangements, only allowing for a future declaration, are fully in force from 1 October 2013. Exemptions in particular cases are not provided for, given that other people have had to pay arrears in motor tax as a result of the new arrangements, and given the necessity generally of maintaining a consistent approach in the application of the legislation.
