Hauliers welcome publication of government fuel supports
The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has welcomed the publication of government fuel supports for the sector.
The government is expected to approve two schemes to assist hauliers, bus operators, and farmers amid rising fuel costs due to the war in the Middle East.
The measures were introduced in response to nationwide fuel protests.
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon will both seek formal approval for the schemes during a Cabinet meeting today (Tuesday, April 28).
Minister O'Brien will propose the establishment of a road transporters support scheme, covering road haulage vehicles and licensed bus operators.
While Minister Heydon will table the Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme for farmers, farm contractors and fisheries.
Fuel
The IRHA said the supports "represent an important step in recognising the pressures faced by hauliers, particularly in light of sustained fuel cost volatility and broader supply chain challenges".
The association acknowledged "the constructive engagement" that has taken place between the IRHA and government over the past two months.
President of the IRHA, Ger Hyland, said that while the fuel supports will not save every haulage business, they will ease the burden of escalating fuel and other costs.
"We made the decision to engage in robust negotiations with government and we think that this strategic decision has been the correct one for our industry.
"These supports are the result of steady and ongoing engagement, where the experiences of hauliers across the country have been brought forward in a constructive way.
"We now feel there is a greater appreciation at government level for the importance of our industry," he said.
Hauliers
Hyland said that while the measures are a positive development, continued dialogue will be essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the sector.
"We welcome the support but our cost base is still extraordinarily high.
"Higher tolls, port charges, new taxes, charges and government imposed levies along with escalating fuel prices have driven many hauliers out of business.
"We will continue our engagement with government to ensure that the needs of the industry are addressed in a practical and sustainable manner," the IRHA president added.
