Forecourt owners in Co Louth are signing up to a voluntary independent fuel-testing scheme in order to cut down on the illegal fuel trade in the area.
According to The Irish Times, the new scheme is “so motorists know we sell genuine fuel and we pay our taxes.”
Ray Prunty, who has two filling stations in Castlebellingham, is quoted as saying that he has a margin of around five cent to play with, whereas those operating illegally have as much as 50 cent.
The quality assurance scheme has been introduced by the Irish Petrol Retailers’ Association, which estimates that fuel laundering costs the Exchequer around €200 million a year.
The scheme, which will also be rolled out in other counties, was launched in Louth because of requests from local retailers.
Fifteen garages have so far signed up to the scheme and have met criteria, which includes that they have not been convicted of Revenue offences and that they have had their fuel tested to ensure it meets legal Government specification.
The scheme is voluntary, with no obligation on people to take part although it has received the backing of the Society of Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) and the Irish Road Haulage Association.
A new smartphone app is also planned to help motorists identify the nearest participating forecourt.
Source: Filling stations join forces to drive out gangs supplying cheap illegal fuel (The Irish Times)
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