It said transport in Ireland is not on target to achieve its emissions objectives and calls on the Government to disincentivize the use of private cars and internal combustion engine vehicles.
It is calling for every aspect of taxation that impacts on drivers, and the vehicle choices they make, to be comprehensively and urgently reviewed by the Government. The review said that without increased electric vehicle uptake, Ireland is at risk of being further locked into a carbon intensive transport system, while consumers may be left with carbon intensive combustion engine vehicles.
The review also calls for the Government to provide support and guidance to Local Authorities around congestion charging, shuttle bus services, and incentives to promote carpooling to reduce transport demand and emissions. Marie Donnelly said the Government would need to ensure that any changes in motoring taxation policy for households and businesses drive emission reductions while at the same time is progressive and protects the most exposed to change.