Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 May 2017
62. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the windfall of approximately €100 million from the Revenue Commissioners to Transport Infrastructure Ireland can be used in part to increase the subsidy to Bus Éireann. [22092/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI set out the position in relation to the appeal of the 2010 Revenue ruling applying VAT to tolls on the M50 and the Dublin Port Tunnel in my earlier answer to Deputy Smith. I think an important point to bear in mind is that TII has been absorbing the VAT cost since 2010 with a knock on effect on the national roads programme so any refund would not represent a windfall. It is also the case that while Revenue has indicated to TII, in light of the European Court of Justice January decision, that VAT is not applicable to toll charges on the M50 and the Dublin Port Tunnel, Revenue has not concluded its consideration on the close out of the appeal, including the payment of a refund.
As regards the additional funding released this year on foot of Revenue's confirmation that VAT is not applicable, the Board of TII has decided to use this money for safety projects - a decision which I endorse in light of the continuing death toll on our roads and the many representations I have received from local communities and their public representatives on roads needing such action taken.
