asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has recently received a memorandum from the National Farmers' Association suggesting modifications of the present position with regard to the licensing, taxation and insurance of vehicles such as tractors and lorries used solely for agricultural purposes, and if he will introduce amending legislation to the Road Transport Act, 1956, to remove the existing disproportionate taxation and restrictions on such vehicles.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Taxation and Restrictions on Agricultural Vehicles.
I have received the memorandum in question. The references in the memorandum to the licensing, taxation and insurance of tractors and lorries are matters for the Minister for Local Government, and the National Farmers' Association has already been so informed. The feasibility of making any amendment of the Road Transport Acts in respect of agricultural tractors is under examination.
I am sure the Minister realises that vis-a-vis the farmers of other countries, the Irish farmers are at a great disadvantage.
I certainly do not agree.
Does the Minister not think so? The tax is very much less in other countries—90 per cent. less as compared with this country.