Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I am very aware that the UK HGV road user levy is a cause of considerable concern for Irish hauliers, particularly those operating in border areas.  I have had extensive discussions with my UK and Northern Ireland counterparts on the matter and have made representations to the UK authorities to completely exempt certain significant sections of Northern Ireland roads infrastructure from the levy, as it is not possible under EU law to have an exemption for just one country.  My Department officials and I are committed to pursuing this issue to the fullest possible extent.  My officials are working closely with Northern Ireland Environment Minister Durkan’s office in making representations to UK Minister Hammond to exempt the A5 corridor for HGV traffic travelling to and from destinations in Ireland.  A key reason for the Irish Government’s investment in the upgrade of the A5 is the fact that it will bring significant benefits to both economies in the region.  I would have concerns that any increased costs levied on Irish operators who are simply transiting Northern Ireland will have a detrimental impact on this economic benefit.  I believe, therefore, that there is a compelling case for exempting the A5 from the levy and I will continue to pursue this case.

The Taoiseach raised this issue at his recent bilateral meeting with Prime Minister David Cameron, while I understand Deputy Joe McHugh met Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers lately to discuss this issue as well.  In addition, my colleague Jim Higgins MEP, Ireland's representative on the European Parliament Transport Committee has written to Commissioner for Transport, Siim Kallas, and the Internal Market Commissioner, Michel Barnier on the matter and is meeting with the European Parliament Transport Committee Chair soon to discuss it.