Robinson and McGuinness press for relief from oil duty hike

First Minister Peter Robinson MP, MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA will today press the UK Government for an assurance that there will be no further increases on fuel excise duty.

The issue of escalating fuel costs will be raised during a Joint Ministerial Committee meeting due to be held at Westminster today.

Mr Robinson said: "The deputy First Minister and I recently raised the issue of rising fuel prices and the impact they are having here directly with the Prime Minister. "

Northern Ireland is a more rural society where the car is relied upon as a necessity for every day life. Rising fuel costs disproportionately affect these rural communities many of whom are already deprived in terms of income.

Mr McGuinness said: "During today’s meeting the First Minister and I will again ask the UK Government to cancel the fuel excise duty increase planned for this October. Furthermore we will seek an assurance that any additional tax revenues collected from higher fuel prices, such as VAT receipts, should be targeted to aid those most affected by the rising cost of fuel"

Notes to Editors:

For Media Enquiries contact Paddy Cullen at OFMDFM Press Office on 028 90521840 or 07850 187134 or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number on 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.