Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister is aware, the road hauliers will commit to a 25% reduction in carbon emissions by the end of the decade if the Government agrees to their reasonable demands to reduce operating costs. That argument is understandable. They acknowledge that their sector is a contributor to carbon emissions and accept that action is required. However, they are not in a financial position to take remedial action. The cost of replacing an existing truck with a low-emission vehicle that runs on hydrotreated vegetable oil, HVO, fuel currently stands at €160,000. More than 60% of the 38,000 trucks on Irish roads need to be upgraded in order to ensure a reduction in emissions.

Truck owners are asking for a number of concessions to enable the industry to meet its stated objectives. Will the Minister deliver a reduction in excise duty on fuel and increase the essential user rebate? Is he willing to take constructive measures to assist the industry reduce carbon emissions?

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