Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 6

Written Answers. - Statistics of Unregistered Vehicles.

Peter Barry

Question:

65 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Finance if he has statistics showing the number of unregistered vehicles in this country; if these numbers are on the increase; if so, the measures, if any, being taken to combat this; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Finance (Mr. B. Ahern)

Since 1 January 1993 the Revenue Commissioners have had responsibility for the maintenance of a register of all motor vehicles in the State and for the collection of Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT). Vehicles, particulars of which are not on the register, are deemed to be unregistered.

Unregistered vehicles may be held by authorised distributors and dealers who are subject to systematic control by the Revenue Commissioners. They may not supply vehicles for use on the road unless the VRT is paid and the vehicles are "plated". Unregistered vehicles, e.g. foreign registered vehicles driven by visitors, may only be used legitimately in the State under the provisions of the Temporary Exemption from Registration of Vehicles Regulations, 1993. There are heavy penalties, including seizure of vehicles, for non-compliance with official requirements.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they do not maintain statistics on the numbers of unregistered vehicles in the State as it is impossible to estimate the number of vehicles liable for registration in the State at any one time.

The Revenue Commissioners have undertaken a publicity campaign including the placing of advertisements in the national press and the publication and dissemination of leaflets and Public Notices in relation to the VRT regime. Additionally, the Commissioners have deployed extra staff and resources to detect the illegal use of unregistered vehicles in the State.

I am informed by the Commissioners that they are satisfied that the enforcement measures taken are in line with their general policy, which is to provide a service which keeps checks and controls to the minimum necessary to enable them to carry out their functions effectively, efficiently and economically.