Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

I thank the Minister for the efforts he is making and I compliment him on the small measures he has taken. The huge cost involved is fuel and increases by previous Government and this Government through the carbon tax and the increase in VAT have made it almost impossible. Two or three hauliers flee the industry on a daily basis because of the huge cost of fuel. When they go abroad they fill up and we are losing tax and excise through this. It costs between €1,200 and €1,400 to fill a lorry's fuel tank which is frightening. Something must be done. The Minister met the Irish Road Haulage Association twice but it is not satisfied with the answers it received. They must compete with those who undermine them with laundered fuel and the rebate is just paying lip service. I welcomed the measures to be introduced in July with regard to weight and speed. However, fuel is a bigger problem and it is not true to say the Minister does not have control over its cost. Tax accounts for more than 50% of the cost of fuel.

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