Fuel prices and tax
Deputy Healy-Rae argued fuel taxes were too high and that the Government should cut them further to help motorists. The Taoiseach replied that revenue was needed for services and roads, and the Deputy insisted action was needed before October.
There are four Deputies remaining. If they ask their questions in 20 seconds, we will take all four of them.
Comment on this
It is clear that many sections of our community are suffering daily because of the significant increase in fuel prices. For people on the road, petrol costs €2.20 per litre and diesel costs €2.15. The total tax take on diesel is now 92.5 cent. When diesel cost €1.20 per litre in January 2021, which was only a little over a year ago, the tax take was 53 cent.
Comment on this
The Government has wriggle room. It is taking in 40 cent extra.
Comment on this
After the 15 cent reduction that it made a few weeks ago, it still has 25 cent to play with. That would mean a great deal to people on the road. Act now because October will be too late.