Kilkenny man heads up new trade body to represent the interests of Irish-based solid fuel retailers

A Kilkenny man is heading up a new trade body established to represent the interests of all Irish-based solid fuel retailers.

Solid Fuel Merchants Ireland (SFMI), was recently established by Kilkenny-based, Colin Ahern, who is the owner of Marble City Fuels in the city.

SFMI aims to become the country’s largest representative body for businesses and retailers selling solid fuels. The organisation will act as a proactive partner to Government, and relevant stakeholders helping to inform and guide on best practice in the industry. 

SFMI advocates for a proportional policy and legislative approach which recognises the necessity of solid fuels as a source of energy. Its objectives are to provide representation for the industry with all high-level stakeholders during a time of profound change for the sector. The association will provide cutting-edge insights, advocacy, policy development and advice to all businesses involved in the selling or promotion of solid fuel.

Key among its policy objectives are:

• The introduction of a sunset clause in any legislation that presents an existential crisis for the sector;
• Full enforcement of legislation, particularly pertaining to smuggling and the evasion of carbon taxation;
• Support for the development of low carbon alternatives;
• The introduction of an EPA registration requirement for all fuel merchants trading.

Its membership already comprises of 50 businesses, which are based across Ireland. 

“Despite the rapid changes engulfing the sector, as a consequence of a move to carbon emission reduction policies, there has been a lack of focused representation of solid fuel merchants interests," said Chairperson of SFMI Colin Ahern.

"Our function is to ensure our membership is empowered to protect the existence of their businesses, amid the evolution of the sector, but crucially to assist them in reaching a fair compromise in any legislation that threatens their existence. Everything we will do will have this principle at its core”.

"SFMI will focus on a commonality of sectoral interests ranging from increasing enforcement resources to protect legitimate businesses to promoting industry standards. We endeavor to make a meaningful impact and deliver real benefits to our members who have a broad geographical reach throughout every town in the country."