Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 833: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the revenue generated by the plastic bag tax on a yearly basis since its introduction; his views on whether the tax should be adjusted accordingly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10109/06]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 836: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of revenue received under the plastic bag levy since its introduction; the amount received each year since the introduction of the levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10049/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 833 and 836 together.

Total receipts each year for the plastic bag levy on disposable shopping bags are set out in the following table:

Prior to the introduction of this levy, an estimated 1.2 billion plastic bags were given away free by retailers. The levy has led to a dramatic reduction in use of plastic bags with a consequent positive environmental benefit. Plastic shopping bags accounted for 5% of litter arisings prior to the introduction of the levy, but for just 0.22% of litter arisings in 2004.

It is evident that the plastic bag levy continues to have a positive effect on our environment. I am anxious that it should continue to do so and in this context I will keep all aspects of the levy, including the level of the tax, under review.