The Managing Director of Volkswagen Ireland is being brought before the Oireachtas Transport Committee to discuss the revelations about the Volkswagen Group cheating on emissions tests for Diesel engines.

Fianna Fáil member of the Committee Timmy Dooley today secured the commitment at a meeting of members.

Deputy Dooley commented: “This is a significant issue for consumers and the environment.  I think it extremely important that the committee has an opportunity to hear from Volkswagen Ireland about the potential implications for Irish motorists arising from this scandal.

“Volkswagen announced plans today to refit up to 11 million vehicles and there is no doubt there will be an impact on Irish car owners as well.  The government needs to be more proactive in responding to these revelations.  It may very well be the case that the EU test system will now need to be overhauled in light of the scandal.  The European Commission is already working on plans to reform the European system for approving new models of cars by the end of the year.

“It’s important the Transport Committee has an opportunity to tease out these issues in detail.  There could be tax implications for owners with diesel engines and that may have to be addressed.”