Denis Naughten
Ceist:141 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the number of school bus operators who have received a fuel rebate following the introduction of the Finance Act, 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29037/00]
Written Answers. - Fuel Rebates.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the number of school bus operators who have received a fuel rebate following the introduction of the Finance Act, 2000, is 409. This covers the period from 25 March 2000 to 30 November 2000.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:142 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance if all outstanding matters have now been resolved for the introduction of a fuel rebate as outlined in the Finance Act, 2000; if guidelines have been put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29038/00]
It is presumed that the question refers to section 94(3) Finance Act, 2000, which included a provision relating to the repayment of excise duty on hydrocarbon oil used in the provision of school bus services.
The effect of that provision is twofold – to regularise the payment of excise refunds on an ongoing basis and to provide a basis for refunds backdated to 1 January 1997, or an earlier date if so prescribed by the Revenue Commissioners.
Arising from this, payments to school bus operators are ongoing and refunds are being made in respect of the period since 1 January 1997.
As regards the position prior to that date, Revenue wrote on 27 October 2000 to the relevant representative bodies setting out its view on the matter. Revenue has also offered to meet these bodies to further clarify their position and to discuss any underlying issues. A response from these interests is awaited.