Dubs are worst offenders for gas meter tampering

DUBLINERS are the worst offenders when it comes to gas meter tampering according to new figures published to coincide with a safety campaign aimed at highlighting the dangers involved.

Over the past two years there have been a staggering 1,112 cases of meter tampering detected in Dublin out of a total 1,475 in Ireland, meaning more than 75 per cent of offenders live in the capital.

Gas Networks Ireland is currently running a public awareness campaign to highlight the life-threatening danger posed by gas meter tampering.

Tampering with a meter can expose the public to the risk of a gas explosion, fire, injury or even death.  It’s also a criminal offence with possible prison sentences and heavy fines for those found guilty of the crime. 

Members of the public can reports suspected tampering and Gas Networks Ireland says it’s grateful for the increased numbers of tip-offs it has received in recent times.

“The methods of interfering with gas meters vary, but in all cases it is dangerous and illegal,” said Owen Wilson, Networks Safety Manager with Gas Networks Ireland. 

“By interfering unlawfully with gas meters, those tampering are not only putting their own safety at risk, but also the safety of their families and neighbours.

“The consequences of gas meter tampering can be fatal.”

The new safety campaign is designed to educate the public about the dangers of meter tampering. Gas Networks Ireland and An Garda Síochána are adopting a rigorous approach to enforcement around tampering and the public is being urged to report any suspected cases.

By law, only Gas Networks Ireland representatives are authorised to work on natural gas meters and it is illegal to ask, pay or allow someone else to tamper with a meter.

Revenue Protection Manager with the networks operator, Aidan Hogan, says each reported case is subject to a rigorous process.

“Meter tampering is treated very seriously, particularly if there is any sense that safety is an issue,” he added.

“The safety of the network and of all of our customers is paramount and this is clearly compromised by those involved in this illegal practice.”

Suspected cases of meter tampering can be confidentially reported to Gas Networks Ireland on 1850-200694 or online at www.gasnetworks.ie/metertampering.