Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I again raise my concerns about the 5% levy on concrete due to come into effect on 1 September. The levy on ready-mixed concrete and concrete blocks could have serious adverse consequences for the agricultural sector, home builders and the construction sector, as it is inevitable it will be passed on to the consumer. Consequently, Irish manufacturers will become uncompetitive in the export market. Northern Irish manufacturers will have a distinct advantage and potentially displace Irish manufacturers, which would lead to significant job losses, especially in the Border region. I know of two companies in County Monaghan, where I live, that employ an awful lot of people. They have serious concerns about how they are going to be affected by the levy, which could ultimately lead to job losses. The businesses will be made uncompetitive and the knock-on effects that will have on the local economy will be devastating. I ask that we write to the Minister to outline our concerns and request that the implementation of this levy be postponed until further talks take place with those in the construction sector.