Kilkenny conviction for unlawful interference with gas meter
Gas meter tampering puts family, neighbours and own lives at risk.
Issued: November 1st 2016
Gas Networks Ireland has welcomed the verdict in a case relating to the dishonest use of gas arising from unlawful interference with a gas meter. The accused, with an address in Kilkenny City, was convicted of the offence by Judge Colin Daly at Kilkenny District Court on Tuesday 25th October 2016. Judge Daly issued a fine of €500 and directed the accused to pay costs of €1000 + VAT and further costs of €250 for the cost of the damaged gas meter.
"Today's verdict sends out an important message to the public that meter tampering is a serious crime with potentially deadly consequences. Fraud is a very serious issue, but far more serious is the risk to life that meter tampering poses to the perpetrator and to people nearby. We are working to end unlawful interference with gas meters and the dangers associated with this activity"
"Gas customers should only ever allow a Registered Gas Installer (RGI) to work on their gas boiler or gas meter. Rogue contractors can make seemingly attractive offers, but the dangers involved, in letting someone who is not registered and qualified to do the work, are very real. Anyone who agrees to allow someone who is not a registered gas installer to work on their gas installations are risking their own lives, those of their families and of the people living nearby."
Networks Safety Manager, Gas Networks Ireland
Tampering with a gas meter is dangerous, exposing people to the risk of a gas explosion, fire, injury or even death. Due to the dangers involved, gas meter tampering is a criminal offence with possible prison sentences and heavy fines for those found guilty of the crime. Gas Networks Ireland has been actively engaged in identifying and making safe installations where tampering has been found and has detected over 1500 cases of meter tampering across the country since 2014. Members of the public are asked to report any suspicions of meter tampering to Gas Networks Ireland in strict confidence by calling 1800 464 464. Further information is available at www.gasnetworks.ie/metertampering
Mary O' Mahony 086 834 2277