2003 Budget and the motorist

[WhipLash]

Just quickly...

Diesel is go up by 3c a litre.

From Jan 1st. 2003, all cars over 1901 ccs will have the higher VRT rate of 30% added.

Anything else?

[WhipLash]

Statement from Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director Ford Ireland in relation to yesterday's Budget announcement re 30% VRT on cars over 1900cc.

'The extension of the penal 30% VRT rate to embrace cars of 1900cc is a myopic and misguided manoeuvre on the Minister's part. It flies in the face of both EU policy on tax harmonisation and sound environmental practice. The majority of cars affected by this move will be diesel. In jurisdictions such as Britain, diesel cars are actively encouraged on the basis of low CO2 emissions through preferential BIK treatment. That Minister McCreevy chooses to do the opposite is baffling'.

'This is not an 'executive' tax on the better off, but a tax on everyday business use that will prove harmful to the environment. Its affect will be compounded by the hike in duty on diesel fuel.

The VRT extension will see the retail price of a 2 litre 4 door Mondeo LX diesel rise by EUR1878 ( or 7.4%) from EUR25,389 to EUR27,266'

[BrianS]

saying that he trusts people will see the reasons behind his decisions!

Oh yeah - Smart move, Minister. I've always backed you on the budget.

Eddie Murphy's comment made sense, although there is a tax incentive for some quarters based on reductions of CO2 emissions. It rises from the Kyoto agreement, but clashes with his decision to put up diesel prices.

Is that web site for lowest priced fuel in Dublin still available?

[WhipLash]

Yes Brian, that petrol price site is still around - check out our links section for exact URL.

BTW, I heard this morning that it is reported in this mornings Irish Times that Road Tax will be increased shortly. Expect a rise of between 8-10%! :(

[WhipLash]

Well its official, a 12% increase across the board! (http://www.eforecourt.com/body.htm/pid/576/catagory/general)