Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Transport, Deputy Timmy Dooley has written to the Dáil Transport Committee urging them to investigate the revelations about the Volkswagen Group cheating on emissions tests for Diesel engines.

Deputy Dooley commented: ‘’I have written to the Transport Committee outlining the potential implications for Irish motorists arising from the VW scandal.

“If Euro rules for testing Diesel vehicle emissions have to be revised to mitigate against the deceitful practices that are alleged to have been used by VW in the US, then this could have very serious implications for Irish car owners.

“If the EU test system is overhauled, it is possible that this will result in higher official figures for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Under the current motor tax regime in Ireland, this would result in higher tax bands for all cars, both diesel and petrol included. I am also concerned about reports that a very large number of Irish diesel cars could face a recall as a result of the scandal.

“I am urging the government to take a more proactive role in investigating and responding to the VW mess.

“Volkswagen Group Ireland should be invited before the committee to provide answers on their level of knowledge regarding manufacturing and testing practices at VW. Representatives from the Society of Irish Motor Industry will undoubtedly have insights to share on the fallout from scandal and should be invited to attend the committee.

“With reports coming from the US authorities alleging that VW’s cars were emitting up to 40 times the levels of NOx permitted – a dangerous cause of respiratory illness – we need to hear from officials at the Environmental Protection Agency, to probe whether the body responsible for monitoring air pollution has been asleep at the wheel.”