Under the regulations being introduced as part of the Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2014, fixed payment notices, or on the spot fines, will be issued by local authorities to bodyshops and suppliers operating outside of the law. Fixed payment notices (FPN) of €500 will apply to persons found to be running an uncertified vehicle refinishing installation (regardless of whether or not they are using compliant products), while an FPN of €1,000 will be introduced for persons found to be selling paints, varnishes or vehicle refinishing products with VOC content above the limit value or products that are not labelled in accordance with the regulations.

 

Ian says, "The introduction of this new measure is keenly anticipated by both the EPA and local authorities. It will provide much more flexibility and speed in the enforcement process.” Ian points out that local authorities will retain any fines received, making the process far more cost effective than the previous court appearance requirement. He also says that crucially multiple FPNs can be issued to the same person or business, meaning that if they continue to break the regulations they face a serious escalating financial penalty.

 

Ian comments, "The cost of being inspected and certified is actually less than the fixed payment notice, so there is really no excuse for continuing to breach the regulations.” He also urges compliant bodyshops to assist with stamping out rogue operators. "We would ask anyone who is aware of illegal activity to pass information to inspectors and local authorities or to call the National Environmental Complaints Line on 1850-365-121”.

 

Ian was also pleased with the positive reception he received when he addressed the recent Automotive Body Repair Club (ABP) meeting in Dublin. He comments, "It was good to meet bodyshop operators and representatives from the paint companies and the insurance industry. I believe we all share a common goal on this issue and we will be exploring how we can work together in the future.”