Martin Cullen "Implementation of similar strategies must continue"
The Minister for the Environment said around 1.2bn bags had been removed from circulation.
Martin Cullen said it was evident that "the mindset is changing and proof that implementation of similar strategies must continue if we are to tackle Ireland's waste problem".
Mr Cullen said that the reduction has been immediate and "the positive visual impact on the environment is plain to see".
He said the 3,000 retailers affected by the new law had cut their provision of plastic bags by 90% in the last five months.
The plastic bag levy is predicted to bring in €10m by next March, if current trends continue.
The scheme was introduced to combat litter and reduce environmental damage caused by plastic bags, which are used for minutes but last for hundreds of years.
Shoppers are now charged 15 cent for each plastic bag.
