Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:16 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance the Government's view of the proposal for an EU wide tax on oil based fuels, including diesel and petrol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14230/01]
Written Answers. - Tax Code.
I assume the Deputy is referring to the proposals on the taxation of energy products which were introduced in March 1997, and which proposed both taxes on new products such as electricity and increases in minimum rates for products such as mineral oils. These proposals remain in discussion at EU level. The difficulties that we have with this proposal have been set out in the House on numerous occasions, not least the impact on consumer prices and on external competivity.
All member states must impose the relevant agreed minimum excise duty rates for mineral oils which are set out in the EU directives already adopted.