Lynn Boylan (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach. I also thank the Minister of State, Deputy Fleming, for the apology, which I accept completely. I am glad he was able to take the matter today. I see a glimmer of hope in the response he gave. It is interesting that again France seems to be leading the way in innovative approaches to climate action. I had a Commencement matter last week looking at the ban on fossil fuel adverts which again France is leading the way on. I would like to know the Government's position ahead of that Transport Council meeting because we know that is what is critical. It is all well and good for France to bring the proposal to the Council meeting but will Ireland back it up and support it? I would be interested to hear, the Minister of State, Deputy Fleming's view on that.

According to the Minister of State, Deputy Fleming's response, it is interesting to note the State is not collecting the necessary data in order to do that tax. This is another example of why Ireland needs to get its head around collecting data on wealth. Apparently, we do not have the data from the Government when it comes to a wealth tax and we are being told we do not have it when it comes to private jets. Of course the Sinn Féin proposal would allow for exemptions for emergency medical service and military flights.