Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:160 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the current position in relation to harmonisation of excise duties within the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14506/00]
Written Answers. - Excise Duties.
All member states must impose the relevant agreed minimum excise duty rates for tobacco, mineral oils and alcohol which are set out in the EU directives. The Commission has not brought forward proposals in relation to the harmonisation of these rates but it did make proposals in relation to the taxation of energy products in 1997, which proposed taxes on new products, such as electricity, and increases in minimum rates for products, such as mineral oils. These proposals remain under discussion at EU level.