Hefty fine for Donegal farmer caught using green diesel

A Donegal sheep farmer who was detecting using marked diesel has been issued with a €2,500 fine in court.

Brian Ramsey pleaded guilty to the offence at Buncrana District Court.

A customs officer presented the case against Ramsey, of Churchtown, Carrigans.

On May 16, 2022 at 11.13am, a white Citroen Berlingo van was stopped and pulled into the side of the road.

The customs officer drew a sample of fuel from the vehicle. The fuel drawn was green in colour and tested positive for the presence of markers.

Samples were sent to the state laboratory and confirmed that marked gas oil was in the fuel tank. In an interview with the customs, Ramsey took responsibility and said he used the marked diesel “for financial reasons”.

Mr Frank Dorrian, solicitor for Ramsey, said the fuel is designed for use in tractors and his client runs a small farm.

“He didn't come up with any excuse for this,” Mr Dorrian said. “He acknowledged that he didn't have the money. It is challenging running a small sheep farm. There was no reason to do it, but it is what happened.”

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham noted the maximum penalty in such a case as being a fine of up to €5,000.

With no further discretion afforded to the judge beyond half of the maximum penalty, Ramsey was fined €2,500 and given six months to pay.