John Kelly (Labour)

I have been in touch with the Irish Road Haulage Association, IRHA, which has contacted the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport about a pressing matter, namely, fuel costs. The IRHA has surveyed 897 of Ireland's 4,238 haulage companies. The question asked was where did these companies buy their fuel. Some 21% buy it abroad. The amount bought in Ireland and abroad is 200 million litres and 60 million litres, respectively. Granting an 8 cent reduction per litre on the 60 million litres bought abroad would cost the Exchequer €20 million, but there would be a net saving to the Exchequer of €8 million. I, therefore, call on the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to address the issue in the House. As the Cathaoirleach knows, every haulage company is struggling owing to increases in fuel costs and toll charges in recent years. It is a matter of common sense. If we could prove to the Minister that we could save money by taking the right measure, it would be important. I, therefore, call on the Leader to engage with the Minister to arrange a debate on the issue.