Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2015
187. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider using car parking fees as an option for commuters availing of the annual tax saver scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3298/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe travel pass (Tax Saver) scheme was introduced originally in Finance Act 1999 to encourage greater use of public transport by providing an exemption from BIK (Benefit-In-Kind taxation) for employer-provided bus and rail passes.
While the scheme has proved very popular since its introduction it is not practical, in the current economic circumstances, to consider its extension in any way that would increase the cost to the Exchequer. I would be concerned also that to extend the scheme in the manner proposed by the Deputy would perhaps have the unintended effect of increasing the distance driven by commuters before they switch to public transport. There could also be difficulties in terms of administering such a change and minimising any opportunity for its misuse.
