Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 130: To ask the Minister for Finance his views on the fact that an introduction of carbon tax on solid fuels such as coal will drive persons across the Border to purchase such fuel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44925/09]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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On considering the introduction of a new tax or indeed an increase in current taxes a wide variety of factors are taken into consideration including the impact on cross-border trade.

When new taxes are being introduced there are always practical issues in relation to implementation that require consideration. In that regard, as is normal practice, my officials in conjunction with the Office of Revenue Commissioners and other relevant Departments will, if the need arises engage with those sectors involved in the implementation of the carbon tax to minimise, in so far as it is reasonably possible, practical difficulties.

Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 131: To ask the Minister for Finance the way, in view of a carbon tax being introduced, he intends to ensure that most vulnerable who would pay more for solid fuels such as coal would be protected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44926/09]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I am committed to the introduction of a carbon tax on a phased basis in the context of the 2010 Budget. In relation to the issue of fuel poverty, it is acknowledged that appropriate measures may need to be put in place depending on the level of carbon tax introduced.