The Freight Transport Association of Ireland (FTAI) welcomes the publication of the public consultation summary report for Ireland’s 10-Year Road Haulage Strategy but is pressing government to create a final plan in partnership with industry that is dynamic and ambitious, yet achievable for all parties.

Aidan Flynn, CEO of FTAI, comments, “the publication of the report is an encouraging step forward in creating a road haulage strategy which delivers for all sectors of Ireland’s economy. As evidenced by the high number of consultation responses – many of which came from FTAI members – industry is keen to ensure the plan is effective, yet deliverable. It is important that, moving forward, government continues to consult with industry to achieve measurable targets which benefit all those involved. And, while it is encouraging that the strategy will provide industry with a long-term perspective, logistics is a fast-paced industry which is constantly changing – it is imperative that the final strategy is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it is fit for purpose.”

The final strategy will lay out the government’s long-term approach to supporting and sustaining the road haulage sector as it moves to a low carbon future, while still improving standards and addressing labour and skills needs.

Flynn continued, “it is vital that, following the publication of the long-awaited report, this strategy is moved forwards as quickly as possible. FTAI is urging government to ensure that the road haulage sector – and those in the wider freight distribution and logistics industry – has access to a dynamic strategy and roadmap to accommodate environmental, competitive and global supply chain challenges which are currently pressuring the industry.”

FTA Ireland is a not-for-profit membership trade association for the Irish freight, passenger and logistics industries. It is wholly owned and governed by its members and acts solely in advancing their best interests. FTAI covers all aspects of private and public freight transport, passenger transport and logistics supply chain, including road, rail, sea and air. It represents some of the largest freight and passenger operators in Ireland, with more than 25,000 employees and 10,000 vehicles operating between them.

Source: FTA Ireland