203 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the air travel tax has had a major effect and has ill served the industry; if he will ensure removal of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36639/10]

The air travel tax was one of a number of Budgetary measures introduced that was necessary in the context of an overall response to the fiscal challenges we face and represents a genuine effort to broaden the tax base in a fair and equitable manner. I have stated before that the impact of the tax on passenger numbers is being overstated. As the Deputy will be aware, both Germany and Austria have announced plans to introduce an air travel tax with effect from 1 January 2011.