île d’Oleron residents against eco-tax proposal

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Residents on the île d'Oleron met last week to debate a proposal for a new eco-tax, to be levied on vehicles crossing the bridge onto the island, which is currently free.

The meeting last Saturday allowed a vocal majority to express their objections to the proposal, which calls for a 5€ tax per vehicle, to help raise money for environmental projects.

Amongst the 150 people represented at the meeting, which was held in St Pierre d'Oleron, a large majority were against the plan, whilst there was some support from environmentalists.  Many fear that a tax would deter potential visitors, and would penalise the least wealthy.  Against a backdrop of such opposition, it is thought unlikely that the new tax would be introduced in the short term.

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