Motor tax renewal comes online — but abuse will not be tolerated
Currently, an uninsured driver cannot obtain motor tax renewal as a valid certificate of insurance has to be produced. However, under the new system, motorists will only be asked to insert insurance details in their online application.
“We have to rely on people’s honesty,” said a spokesperson, warning the full rigours of the law will be applied to anyone who makes a false declaration.
Irish motorists, under the Road Traffic Act, have to display both valid tax and insurance discs on their vehicles.
Environment Minister Martin Cullen described the online service as one of the most exciting e-government projects to date.
“At present, the only way to renew motor tax is to use the postal renewal service or to visit a motor tax office during its opening hours,” he said, “but, from now on, it will be possible to renew your tax from the comfort of your own home, office, public library or indeed, anywhere in the world with internet access. And, importantly, you can do this at a time that suits you”.
With more than 1.9 million vehicles on Irish roads, the motor tax revenue this year will top €720 million. State agencies will handle about three million applications for motor tax in 2004.
The launch of the scheme yesterday followed a successful pilot project initiated last November in counties Clare, Galway and North Tipperary. The pilot scheme attracted 9% of motor tax renewal business.
With the scheme being introduced countrywide from March 1, a pin number will be sent to vehicle owners with the motor tax reminder notice which they receive in the post from the department's Vehicle Registration Unit (VRU) in Shannon. The unique PIN number, together with a credit or laser card and internet access is required to use the new service.
Mr Cullen said the scheme envisaged new tax discs being in the post within 24 hours.
The website is www.motortax.ie or www.motarchain.ie
