This chapter sets out a detailed Central Forecast for the Irish Economy for the period to 2003. It is based on the set of assumptions, described in earlier chapters, concerning the external environment, domestic economic policy and basic demographic trends. It represents the authors' best...

The issues raised by global warming are examined briefly and historical events are drawn on to highlight the dangers of over-reaction to the possibility of climatic changes.

The authors examine taxation in the transport sector and call for shifts in taxation in relation to diesel fuel, public transport, heavy goods vehicles, air transport and free parking. The underlying logic of their paper is to use such fiscal instruments to encourage environmentally benign...