Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 43: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to plans to increase the plastic bag levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36622/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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It is not currently proposed to increase the plastic bag levy.

Prior to the introduction of the levy, an estimated 1.2 billion plastic bags were given away free by retailers. The levy has led to a dramatic reduction with a consequent positive environmental benefit. There has been a 95% reduction in the level of litter arising from plastic bags.

Analysis of plastic bag levy receipts on a quarterly basis in respect of transactions up to 30 October 2005 indicate a consistent pattern in the flow of income from the levy. While no changes to its operation are proposed at present, my Department will continue to monitor its performance.