Donegal motorists could soon see the benefit of cheaper petrol and diesel prices – only if the Government backs a Fianna Fáil Bill due to be debated in the Dáil this week.
The Motorists Emergency Relief Bill, to be published on tomorrow, would result in an immediate reduction of 5 cent a litre in petrol and diesel costs. This is part of a Fianna Fáil campaign to bring fuel costs in this country under control.
Donegal North East Fianna Fáil TD Charlie McConalogue said: “If this legislation is passed it will bring immediate relief to thousands of motorists, farmers and small businesses across Co Donegal.
“People feel they are being squeezed from every angle at the moment and the rapidly rising cost of fuel is just another cost they simply cannot afford. An instant reduction of 5 cent at the pumps would make a significant impact on household budgets.
“The Fianna Fáil proposal also calls for a review of fuel prices every three months instead of the current system of annual reviews. It doesn’t make any sense to only have a review of fuel prices once a year at budget time, when th e cost of oil on world markets is changing all the time.
“The Government needs flexibility to respond to this on a regular basis. The Fianna Fáil legislation would allow the Government to act quickly to developing situations in the market place.
“The rising cost of fuel is crippling so many families and small businesses in Co Donegal, and instead of taking any action to alleviate this pressure the Government made things worse by a 2% hike in VAT this year.”
The Inishowen TD added: “I am urging local Government TDs Joe McHugh and Minister Dinny McGinley to support the Fianna Fáil legislation this week and bring about some much needed relief for Donegal motorists. It will help boost consumer confidence and will have a positive impact on the economy.”
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