Labour T.D. Ann Phelan, and member of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications has called for a range of options to be deployed across the relevant State agencies to tackle fuel laundering, which is estimated to cost the state €150 million per year.

Deputy Phelan, who is part of the sub-committee who will forward the report to the Minister for Finance for his deliberations, outlined her concerns for the Road Haulage Industry.

"Central to ensuring the long-term stability and viability of the Road Haulage business in this country, is tackling the issue of fuel laundering which is estimated to cost the exchequer €150 million on an annual basis. This is a very grave statistic.

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"Recently, we have become ever more frequently aware of the scale of racketeering in fuel laundering. From publicised details of seizures of laundered goods and equipment, it is obvious that illegal tampering with marked gas oil is increasing. But it is not only damaging genuine businesses, it is destroying consumers' vehicles and other valuable equipment.

"The report issued by the Committee addresses various issues surrounding the haulage industry which are aimed at safeguarding the sustainability of the industry into the future.

"Amongst its recommendations, the Committee, believes a rebate for tax paid on fuel and a pay-as-you-go system incorporating the use of digital tachographs, along the lines of those in use in other EU member States, should be considered."

(CD)