A Chara, - Given the recent publication of the Stern Report in the UK and European Environmental Agency projections that we in Ireland will overshoot our Kyoto targets, perhaps it is time to stop levying a 50 cent producer recycling fund charge on energy-saving light-bulbs.
This is a particularly daft thing to be doing since there is no equivalent charge on the ordinary, and much less efficient, filament bulb.
Your recent Editorial, "Much heat but little light" (Oct 31st) called for carbon taxes on the "polluter pays" principle.
The PRF levy on energy-saving bulbs means, effectively, that those who pollute less pay more.
I raised this matter with Minister for the Environment Dick Roche who, to his credit, replied immediately that he saw the point and would ask his officials to examine the matter.
Let us hope that he can bring some common sense to bear on this matter.
The Environmental Protection Agency, in sharp contrast, demonstrates complacency rather than common sense.
Their response to my query concentrated on assuring me that it is correct to charge the levy on the bulbs, although the fittings for them are exempt, because they are used for domestic purposes.
The EPA concluded by hoping that this information answered my question sufficiently.
Not even close. - Is mise,
TIM McMAHON,
Corrig Hall,
Kilcoole,
Co Wicklow.