Ministers agree controversial tax for hauliers on European roads

TRANSPORT ministers in Europe have agreed to a green tax, whereby countries can charge heavy goods lorries using many of Europe’s main roads a special tax for causing noise and air pollution and further charges to discourage peak time driving.

Hauliers have been battling against the tax that will add about a third to existing taxes and against the peak-hours tax that could triple the money they pay.

Countries will not be forced to introduce the tax, which will add about three to four cent to the existing 15 to 25 cent per km charge levied by some countries to cover construction and maintenance of roads. Ireland does not charge its hauliers the tax.