Plastic bag levy nets €166m in 10 years

The Government levy on the use of plastic shopping bags has generated €166m for the exchequer since it was introduced 10 years ago.

The levy has also led to a fall of at least a 90% in their use in Ireland. A similar tax is set to be introduced in Northern Ireland next January.

The reduction in the use by shoppers of disposable plastic bags has been welcomed by environmental organisations and by retailers.