SF: We’ll ditch plan in favour of scrappage scheme for all
SINN FÉIN says it will replace the electric vehicle grant with a new scrappage scheme that would target working families who cannot afford to make the switch to new climate-friendly cars, if it is voted into power.
The party’s transport spokesman Darren O’Rourke said the current scheme ‘is disproportionately benefiting the wealthy’.
Mr O’Rourke told the Irish Mail on Sunday: ‘Over €25m of taxpayer’s money is being spent on high-end cars for those who clearly aren’t struggling to buy a car.
‘EV grants should be focused on supporting those on lower and middle incomes upgrading to an electric vehicle, not subsidising high-end models for individuals who can easily afford them without grant support.
‘We need targeted schemes to assist those who actually need financial assistance buying an electric car or van,’ he said.
‘We also think consideration should be given to introducing a scrappage scheme that would get the oldest, most-polluting cars off the road and in return provide financial help for people buying an electric car, van, or even a cargo bike. The system isn’t helping the vast majority of workers and families, as EVs remain out of their financial reach. Changes should be introduced to address this.’
The Meath East TD also called for grants to be given to secondhand e-car buyers.
‘Second-hand cars are more affordable to more people. In our alternative budget last year, we proposed that a grant for secondhand EVs should be introduced.
‘I’ve also asked the Ministers for Transport and Finance to look at addressing the very high customs and VAT costs that are now in place due to Brexit, which is preventing the importation of affordable used EVs from Britain.
‘If we can reduce these costs, we can help build an affordable second-hand EV market here, helping to reduce transport emissions.’