Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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204. To ask the Minister for Finance his position on any potential EU proposals on minimum energy tax levels especially in relation to diesel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2949/13]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I assume the Deputy is referring to the Commission proposal to revise the Energy Tax Directive (Directive 2003/96/EC). Discussions of the Commission proposal have been ongoing since it first appeared in April 2011 at the Council Working Party on Tax Questions. The Directive covers, inter alia, minimum rates on all energy products which includes auto fuels. It should be noted that, in terms of auto-fuels in particular, excise in Ireland is already above the current EU minima. Under the Irish Presidency of the EU discussions will continue on this proposal.