Lorraine Higgins (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I highlight the ongoing issue of petrol stretching and the great distress this illegal activity is causing innocent motorists around the country who face serious financial consequences and the potential loss of their vehicle should they unwittingly purchase this contaminated fuel. The victims of this crime also face difficulties when they try to claim compensation under their insurance policies. Petrol stretching constitutes malicious damage and should be covered by fully comprehensive insurance policies but it is not. These policies need to cover the risks involved in order to protect consumers. Having heard at first hand a number of my constituents' experiences, I have discovered that they have found themselves in a grossly unfair position in finding that their cars have been destroyed through no fault of their own. The insurance companies are not stepping up to the plate, but the State also has a role to play in tackling the issue of petrol stretching and its repercussions. It is an illegal and dangerous activity that should be dealt with to the full extent of the law. Motorists who purchase petrol in good faith must have that faith and their property protected. In that regard, the Minister for Justice and Equality should come to the House to discuss the issue and look at providing additional resources for An Garda Síochána in the fight against petrol stretching which affects a huge number of motorists in the Galway area.