Hauliers fuel rebate
Deputy Nolan asked for a higher fuel rebate for hauliers, arguing that the current rate leaves Irish operators at a disadvantage. The Taoiseach said budget measures had addressed fuel issues and would refer the concerns to the relevant Ministers.
Page 15 of the programme for Government makes reference to hauliers and the need for a strategy for the sector. The current rate of fuel rebate at just 7.5 cent is insufficient and puts Irish hauliers at a distinct competitive disadvantage compared to their European counterparts. For example, the rate of rebate in France is 19 cent. Will the Taoiseach ensure that a revised fuel rebate scheme is brought forward and that the rate of fuel rebate is increased in order to provide a level playing field for Irish hauliers and also to protect tens of thousands of jobs, mainly in rural Ireland where 80% of our hauliers are based?
