Ireland's Just Transition Commission Recommends Taxing Heavy Cars More

Ireland’s Just Transition Commission recommends the government consider taxing heavy cars more. This is part of eight key recommendations in a new report aimed at reducing transport emissions and improving equality of access and affordability.

The commission suggests examining weight-based car taxation within a broader review of transport taxation to ensure costs are shared more equitably, reflecting the societal impacts of larger vehicles. They also advise embedding gender and care-related mobility in transport policy, recognizing journeys like hospital visits.

Further recommendations include creating targeted supports for electric vehicles and charging, prioritizing low-income, high-mileage, and car-dependent households. The commission also emphasizes prioritizing sustainable transport modes like public transport and improving its accessibility and safety.

Ireland’s transport sector is highly carbon-intensive, with emissions increasing by 130% over 35 years due to reliance on private cars and road freight. The report warns that inaction will lead to continued fossil fuel dependence and dangerous congestion with economic and health consequences.