Fifteen car dealers nationwide that act as authorised repairers for Toyota Ireland claim Toyota Ireland is discriminating against them and is in breach of competition laws have initiated High Court proceedings.

The dealers, who have also lodged a complaint with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (formerly the Competition Authority), say Toyota Ireland is discriminating against them in relation to the criteria for appointment as authorised repairers for Toyota vehicles.

A spokesman for Toyota Ireland said: “Toyota Ireland strongly refutes the claim made against it by fifteen of its authorised repairers and is satisfied that it has at all times complied with competition law and the terms of its agreement with these authorised repairers. It intends to vigorously defend its position. Toyota Ireland has filed a full defence to the claim advanced.”

Lawyers for the dealers wrote to Toyota Ireland, informing them to expect a statement that raises additional instances of wrongdoing, according to barrister Imogen McGrath, who represents the dealers.

They claim the company imposed a disproportionate cost burden for technician training and restricted signage on the dealers’ property without authorisation.

They say they had been authorised repairers for Toyota for many years but are now required to meet additional criteria to continue in that role. The dealers say the system is discriminatory.

The Court adjourned the case until July 7th, when it will address the matter further and set dates for motions by the parties.

The CCPC are awaiting the outcome of the court case before proceeding any further.