Hogan moves to close off-road tax loophole

Motorists will no longer be able to declare their cars “off the road” for tax purposes under new laws being drawn up by Environment Minister Phil Hogan.

The Cabinet yesterday approved the priority drafting of new rules requiring drivers to get a certificate in advance if they want to put their vehicle out of use for a period.

A spokesperson for the minister said €55 million will be saved for the Exchequer by closing the loophole which, she said, is open to abuse.