Conclusive result in mayo petrol stretching case

A CONCLUSIVE result has been received from the state laboratory in respect of one case of alleged patrol stretcing in Mayo, The Connaught Telegraph has learned.

The examination indicated the contamination of petrol through the presence of kerosene. A second positive result for contamination is currently under investigation.

To date, no evidence of fraudulently contaminated petrol has been found in other samples referred for analysis following complaints by Mayo motorists. Revenue is continuing to work closely with An Garda Síochána in a joint investigation of a concentration of complaints in the county.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan said he was advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the orientation of a Revenue investigation is determined on the basis of a comprehensive evaluation of risk, which takes account of all pertinent information. The charging of prices for fuel that are significantly at variance with the generality of prices in a given area is one of many risk factors that they take into account in deciding on the appropriate focus for their investigative work.

“With regard to the question of insurance, I understand from Insurance Ireland that each insurer investigates individual cases in relation to damage done to car engines because of petrol stretching. It will be a matter of whether this financial loss is included or excluded under the terms and conditions of the individual contract. I understand that some insurers are paying out on these claims.

“It should be noted that any person who has an unresolved insurance complaint can refer the matter to the Financial Services Ombudsman for investigation and adjudication,” he added.