Struggling businesses could be hit in the pocket if they use their work vehicles for family or social journeys.
Environment Minister, John Gormley, has ordered local authorities to force drivers of commercial vehicles to legally declare that they won't use them for social purposes.
Business groups have criticised the move which could see thousands of motorists slapped with a €900 road tax hike.
Conor Faughnan, spokesperson for the Automobile Association, has branded the move as "silly" and "unenforceable".
A spokesperson for the Environment Minister is insisting there has been no hike in the motor tax system.
It emerged today that John Gormley's office is asking local authorities to demand that commercial vehicle owners legally declare they will only use their vans or cars for business, and not social or personal purposes.
His spokesperson said that is the only change to the system.
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