Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 187: To ask the Minister for Finance the number of cars registered each year from 1997 to 2005; the cost of VRT for each class of car; the amount of finance raised under each car class each year from 1997 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23155/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the available information on the number of cars registered and the receipts of VRT for each car class, A1, A2 and A3 for the years 1997 to 2005 is shown in Appendix 1. Included at Appendix 2 are the estimated VAT receipts from cars for the period 1997 to 2005. The amount of VAT collected cannot be identified by car class from within the overall VAT yield as the information furnished on VAT returns does not require this to be identified. Appendix 3 outlines the rates of duty for VRT for cars for the period 1997 to 2005.

While the Exchequer benefits generally from revenues generated by the motor sector, the motorist has also benefited from the substantial investment in the roads network over the last number of years through the national development plan. In 2004, spending on national and non-national roads totalled over €1.65 billion. This is set to increase to approximately €1.8 billion this year. Indeed, since 1997 this Government has spent over €8.8 billion on roads.

The Government has prioritised tax reductions on income earned by employees, in preference to other areas, and this policy has helped create record employment levels.

With regard to the figure for VRT receipts for Jan to May 2005, due to a deferment arrangement some of the VRT will not accrue to the Exchequer account until later in the year. The actual amount receipted to the end of May in respect of motor cars is €666 million.