shopping bag levy plans announced

The government will impose a new environmental tax on plastic shopping bags in early next February.
According to the bill announced today by Environment Minister Noel Dempsey, the amount of tax will be 12 p or 15 cents.
The customer must pay the tax at the point of sale of all sales outlets.
This tax will apply to all plastic bags except for smaller bags used to hold non-plastic bags
Packaged fruits, vegetables, sweets, dairy products or cooked food.
The income raised will be used to support the new environment fund for waste management and other environmental initiatives.
The minister insists that the main purpose of changing consumer behavior is not just to generate additional income.
Dempsey said he would like to see a sharp reduction in the use of plastic shopping bags.
He said that at about 1.
Free 2bn plastic bags are provided to customers every year, about 325 plastic bags per person per year.
\"Plastic bags are a visible and lasting component of garbage pollution in towns, rural areas and coastlines.
They have an impact on ecosystems, habitats and wildlife . \"
The draft regulations published today will allow for a final period of consultation with retailers and other interested parties.