Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
995. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he expects the motor tax rates for private goods vehicles, such as vans, to be assessed based on CO2 emissions rather than engine capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5977/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMotor tax and Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) based on carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) was introduced in 2008 for passenger cars only i.e. vehicles that fell into Revenue VRT Category A.
Changes to Revenue VRT legislation (section 53 of the Finance Act 2017), which took effect from 31 July 2018, mean that some commercial vehicles that are taxed privately were brought into VRT Category A and can be taxed on the basis of CO2 – these are Category N1 vehicles (i.e. small commercials, other than crew cabs) that have four or more seats. Commercial vehicles registered before 31 July 2018 continue to be taxed on the basis of engine size, if taxed privately.
Any changes to the existing motor tax system are required to be underpinned in primary legislation and are generally considered in the context of Budget preparations.
