IFA opposes carbon energy fuel tax

Moves to introduce a general carbon energy fuel tax from the end of 2004 are being opposed by the Irish Farmers Association.

IFA president John Dillon, in a letter to Minister Charlie McCreevy, said the move would hit competitiveness in exposed sectors of the economy and discriminate against farmers.

Irish agriculture exports 80% of its total output, including a substantial amount to countries outside the EU. "Additional costs in energy taxes on farmers and agriculture would seriously undermine our competitiveness in the face of growing international competition.”