Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that Revenue and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding in May 2012 on a joint approach to finding a more effective marker for use in both jurisdictions. On foot of this Memorandum, a joint Invitation to Make Submissions was published in June 2012, following which a number of proposals for a new marker were received. These submissions were subjected to a rigorous joint evaluation process by Revenue and HMRC that was completed late last year.  As a result of this process, a new product was identified to mark rebated fuels in both countries.  The new marker, which was announced on 13th February, is an important element of Revenue's overall strategy to tackle the problem of fuel laundering.

During the joint evaluation of submissions, laboratory testing showed that the chosen marker is significantly more effective than the current markers and is highly resistant to known laundering techniques.

The decision on the implementation of the new marker rested with the Board of the Revenue Commissioners and the Economic Secretary to the Treasury in the UK. I am assured by the Revenue Commissioners that all relevant issues were taken into account in the final decision on the marker. I am also advised that a number of solicitors' letters have been received in relation to this process and in the circumstances any further comment would be inappropriate.

I am informed also by the Revenue Commissioners that they will now begin a period of consultation with the oil industry and other affected sectors to progress the implementation of this new marker.