Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)

Apart from issues such as VAT and rebates, the cost of fuel in general is of concern to companies which use vans and other large vehicles. One action we can take is to ensure the best level possible will be set in the legislation which is being debated by the European Parliament and which relates to new limits for manufacturers in respect of van emissions. The level currently under discussion in this regard is not as good proportionately as that which relates to smaller vehicles. I am informed that the level to which I refer is based on a miscalculation of the emission figures for vans in production at present. Moves to improve the efficiency of vehicles used in the road haulage industry would lead to major long-term savings for the companies involved. If such moves are not made, this could lead to a dramatic increase in the cost of doing business in the future.

There have been reports in The Sunday Business Post to the effect that progress has been made in the context of combating the major problem of fuel laundering through the use of new dyes, etc. We must find a means whereby we can stop people tampering with fuel.

See this speech in context