The Italian Senate has approved an amendment to the ‘save Rome decree’ presented by Sicilian senator Antonio D’Alì. The modification levies an additional tax for all those intending to visit volcanic areas. At present, a 2.50 euro landing tax can be charged upon arrival on Italy’s smaller islands, replacing the visitors’ tax.
With the amendment proposed by D’Alì, which was approved by the commission and subsequently by the Senate, municipalities in volcanic areas may apply a tax up to 5 euro ‘in relation to access to areas whose uses are governed for environmental reasons, in the vicinity of phenomena and activities of a volcanic nature’. The amendment also states that local tourist guides may collect the tax.
In particular, the Aeolian Islands will benefit from this measure. Mayor of Lipari Marco Giorgianni immediately thanked the government ‘for the opportunity granted to all small Italian islands in being able to apply a landing tax instead of a more discouraging visitors’ tax.’
