Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their attendance and note Mr. Himmer, in particular, has a very difficult job here. He is answering questions because of something that someone in an office or laboratory far away decided to do. I acknowledge his role here today is very much as the messenger and I certainly do not wish to shoot the messenger but there are questions I must ask. One in particular concerns the removal of software or hardware. What impact will this have on every aspect of the performance of the vehicles affected? Can Mr. Himmer provide information in this regard? In addition, I refer to an important point for Volkswagen customers. While it may be a worldwide phenomenon, I have found Irish people in particular to be loyal to their make of car. If they get a good one, many people will try to stick with the car brand that has served them well. In particular, I have found this to be the case in respect of Volkswagen drivers. I know many such drivers who are on their tenth or 15th Volkswagen and these are the people for whom I really feel sorry. They feel let down and unsure. Many people who buy Volkswagen cars do so because they know they will get a good price for it when selling it on, all going well. Many of my constituents have asked me what impact this will have on resale value and Mr. Himmer must try to elaborate on this point.

My final question pertains to something that is paramount for anybody who is purchasing a car. This might sound like a stupid question but is there a safety implication arising from the removal of the aforementioned pieces of hardware and software? Is there a safety implication arising from any stage of the scandal about which drivers of Volkswagen cars or the other cars affected must be concerned?