David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his response. The question was prompted by a call from an owner of a haulage business who employs more than 50 people. He has informed me that he will have to let them all go shortly because the pressure of costs is becoming unbearable. He cited problems with washed diesel undercutting his business as well. He said he would not have contacted me except that the matter was most urgent. He said his business is on life support. Is it possible for the Minister to give any indication of when the working group will finish its deliberations? When will it be in a position to report? Does the Minister have any information on the impact on the haulage industry caused by the high price of diesel and the illegal washed diesel on the market?

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