The Minister for Transport, Shane Ross, is reportedly considering equalising the levies on petrol and diesel following evidence diesel use may be more harmful for the environment.

Fianna Fail has called on the Minister for Climate Change and Natural Resources, Denis Naughten TD, to explain whether he supports his Government colleague's proposal.

Climate Change Spokesperson, Timmy Dooley TD, said: "There has been no public discussion about a corresponding cut in the taxes levied on petrol, which begs the question the Government doing this as a revenue-raising activity, or as a way of promoting a move from diesel to petrol?” asked the Fianna Fáil TD.

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"If it's the latter, Minister Naughten must ensure that the Government, as part of Budget 2017, reduces the levies on petrol.”

"Minister Naughten is the minister with responsibility for climate change. He must be the one making the decision on this issue, and not allow his cabinet colleagues dictate policy in his department,” added Deputy Dooley.

"The Minister should be well aware, coming from a rural constituency, that people living in rural communities travel further to access services and consume more fuel as a result. They have invested by switching from petrol to diesel cars over the past 10 years.

"Fianna Fáil supports measures that will help reduce our environmental footprint but the Government cannot be allowed get away with double-charging, and hope that commuters don't notice."

(CD)