Dáil debates

Tuesday, 27 May 2014

Topical Issue Debate

Vehicle Registration

5:45 pm

Photo of Noel CoonanNoel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply. It was difficult to hear him but I am sure I will get the written version of it.

The problem is somebody who wants to buy a motorhome will not hang around for two or three weeks to go through the registration process. They are going outside the country and that means business is being lost. The extended delay experienced by Donaghey Motorhomes and other dealers across the country with vehicle registration is having a negative effect on their businesses and it is likely to create problems for the people they employ. Donaghey Motorhomes has spent €20,000 upskilling its employees and the company has been informed that it not completed all necessary requirements and that is putting jobs at risk. Will the Minister make direct contact with the motorhome companies to resolve this issue and to deal with the difficulties? Previously, the motor dealer could go directly to the Revenue. It was an inconvenience but not a problem.

Why does Revenue not have a library of prices similar to that for cars? Why is a company that has a TAN number, a VAT registration number and employing 16 people, which deals directly with the Revenue, not allowed to register motorhomes, as was previously the case? This is about basic customer service. We got a lesson in that from the electorate over the weekend. One must deal directly with people and give them proper customer service. This is not happening in this instance. Will the Minister simplify the process and resolve the issue in order that a better service can be offered to those involved in the motorhome trade? Trade peaks on occasion during the year but it is limited and dealers should be dealt with promptly. Will the Minister meet representatives of the companies affected to sort out this issue to their satisfaction?

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