Commercial road tax reductions will create jobs in the transport industry – Sheahan

Fine Gael Senator for Kerry, Tom Sheahan, has warmly welcomed the road tax reduction for commercial vehicles saying that the decision by the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan TD will result in new jobs in the transport industry.
“Previously HGV operators had to pay up to €5,195 per annum for their motor tax. As a result of the changes announced in Budget 2016, these operators will save up to €4,295 per lorry.
“Our operators will now be able to compete with their Northern Ireland and British counterparts, not just for work here in Ireland, but also for continental work as the commercial road tax rate is now below that of the UK. When this reduction is taken into account along with the diesel rebate introduced earlier this year, the outlook is good for the transport sector.
“It isn’t just the operators of HGVs that will benefit, the small lorry operator like the sand and gravel merchants and other businesses that need transportation will also see significant savings on their road tax.
“I have been campaigning for this reduction and I am delighted that these progressive measures have been taken. It is also worth noting that the President of the Irish Road Hauliers Association, Verona Murphy, along with Neil McDonnell, general manager of the Freight Transport Association of Ireland have warmly welcomed this decision saying that the industry would breathe a sigh of relief.
“This is just one of many measures brought in by Fine Gael, over the term of this government that have helped business owners grow and prosper. I am confident that this decision to increase competitiveness in the transport industry will see more jobs created, not just in Kerry, but throughout the country.”