Worn tyres policy

16.10.2013

Question for written answer E-011791-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Nessa Childers (NI)

Since the advent of recession in 2008, we have seen a proliferation of businesses offering part-worn tyres at discount prices being set up all over Ireland. These tyres, which arrive in Ireland as bulk scrap (usually from England or Germany), are not individually identified and so do not leave the same VAT trail that new tyres do. Not only do legitimate retailers lose business, but the government loses a VAT dividend. Naturally, there are also safety concerns associated with the trustworthiness of such tyres.

Has the Commission discussed or assessed the environmental factors of transporting scrap between borders?

Is there any legislation to protect consumers from being charged ‘environmental disposal fees’ at the point of transaction for tyres that are resold to other markets?

OJ C 218, 10/07/2014