Realities of no-deal Brexit could spell hardship for motorists – Smyth

 

A local Fianna Fáil TD has warned that a a no-deal Brexit will spark chaos for motorists and have far-reaching consequences.

Deputy Niamh Smyth was commenting following a special briefing from the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) facilitated by Fianna Fáil’s Spokesperson on Transport Robert Troy.

“MIBI reinforced the ramifications motorists travelling across the border will face in the event of a no-deal Brexit," said Deputy Smyth. 

“The MIBI have issued about one million Green Card forms as well as electronic application templates, to insurance companies and insurance brokers. Motorists will need to apply for these green cards from next week in order to have them in time to travel across the border in the immediate aftermath of a no-deal Brexit.

“The consequences of not having a green card post March 29, if there is no-deal, are quite severe and motorists must take heed of the warning from the MIBI. Those who travel across the border face automatic impoundment of their vehicles or fines if found without a green card."

The MIBI information session was part of a campaign to make motorists aware of their legal obligations in the event of no-deal.

“On average, around 13,000 cross border journeys are made by those driving heavy goods vehicles and light goods vehicles," continued Deputy Smyth. "Not only will this cause major hardship for businesses and companies but it will be a major hindrance to the people living along the border, particularly in counties Cavan and Monaghan. For instance between Castle Saunderson and Clones we cross over the border on multiple occasions.

“There are thousands of people who cross the border every day for work, school, college, medical appointments and to simply visit family or friends. It is imperative for these people that they can continue in their daily lives without impediments,” concluded Deputy Smyth.