No easy option in fuel battle

Well done to the IFA for its work in highlighting the additional upfront costs for farmers of more than €80m per year, if the Government were to take the easy option of equalising excise treatment of agricultural diesel and road diesel, in the battle against fuel laundering criminals.

To be fair to the Government, and Revenue Commissioners, they seem to have rejected the excise equalisation idea, which would require oil traders and consumers to pay a much increased price for agricultural diesel, and then apply to the Revenue for a refund.

However, it a sobering reminder of how rising crime can affect everyday business life, if farmers would have to endure major cash-flow difficulties because the State cannot control fuel laundering.