Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister knows, many families are grappling with the cost of living, especially the cost of fuel. There is huge anxiety and concern about the fuel costs that motorists, farmers and hauliers, who cannot plan for the future, are paying at present. Will the Government extend the excise duty reduction we currently have? We are hearing mixed messages from the Government. It appears the Green Party is of a different opinion to Fianna Fáil, from what is being reported in the media. Will the Minister give certainty to families, farmers and hauliers in respect of this issue? One haulier, Mr. Ger Hyland in County Laois, has been in contact with me regarding this issue. Hauliers are very concerned. They provide much employment in rural Ireland where there are little or no opportunities. We need the excise duty reduction to be extended. I call on the Minister to do that.

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