Vol. 460 No. 7
33 Mr. N. Treacy asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the action, if any, he is taking to mitigate the probable loss of duty free at Irish airports; and the representations, if any, he has made to the EU in relation to this matter. [1442/96]
Duty Free sales to travellers between member states of the European Union are due to be abolished with effect from 1 July 1999.
Duty free retailing is a significant source of revenue for Aer Rianta and for the privately owned regional airports. This has helped to keep basic charges to airlines at Dublin, Shannon and Cork Airports at their present levels since April 1987 and discounts to be given on these charges. Duty free revenues are also important for the airlines themselves and for the shipping companies.
Aer Rianta is mounting a campaign for the retention of duty free retailing after July 1999. I share its concern and that of the airlines. I will be bringing this issue to the attention of the Minister for Finance, who has overall responsibility for the European Monetary Union process.
