Deputy Michael Lowry has raised the difficulties faced by the haulage sector in meeting emissions reductions. The Tipperary TD sought additional measures from the Transport Minister Eamon Ryan who also holds the Environment and Climate action portfolio. Deptuy Lowry is seeking a number of concessions for the sector saying the Road Hauliers will commit to a 25% reduction in carbon emissions by the end of the decade if the Government agrees to their reasonable demands to reduce their operating costs. Haulage operators are seeking support with the costs of replacing the older vehicles, a reduction in the rate of excise on fuel and an increase in the essential user rebate. The Minister made no commitments other than saying that data as to the composition of the current fleet is being sought and that EU policy is to move away from rebate schemes for any fossil fuel vehicles. Minister Ryan did offer to try to identify other ways to help the sector meet it’s sectoral emission reduction targets. These are expected to be finalised by September.
