With the commercial diesel rebate now in operation within the Republic of Ireland, the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) is encouraging freight and bus operators to have all their plans, administration systems and process in place helping them to 'reap-the rewards' of the system.
The Fuel Rebate system announced by Minister Michael Noonan in the Budget of December 2012 commenced on July 1 2013. However, a system for registering with the Revenue has yet to be implemented and is unlikely to be in place for some months yet, with the expected first payment to freight and bus operators not being made before January 2014.
The concern of FTA Ireland is that this will impact on due payment dates and the Association is therefore, encouraging its members to implement processes now - making sure that they have the correct paper-work, systems and processes in place, in order to ensure that they are able to take advantage of the rebate as efficiently as possible.
FTAI also understands that the commercial diesel rebate is only applicable to those who possess an Operators Licence.
FTA Ireland is actively encouraging these operators, to accurately record fuel usage for each vehicle since 1 July 2013 onwards, advising them to make sure that they have in their possession legitimate proof of purchase. Claims may only be made in respect of auto-diesel that is purchased in the State by the qualifying road transport operator, either in bulk or by means of a fuel card approved for that purpose by Revenue.
Declan McKeon, FTA Ireland - Head of Policy of Ireland said:
"FTA Ireland want to ensure that when the time comes for registering with the revenue, that Operators have all the requisite information and process in place to allow them to avail of the rebate, and are encouraging all to take steps now to avoid delay or confusion in the future."