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Lorry drivers are an important part of moving food and animals around the country. \ Philip Doyle
The Institute of Technology in Sligo in partnership with Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTA Ireland) has launched the first academic qualification for commercial driving in Ireland.
The programme will be ready for its first set of apprentices from January next year.
It is a two-year Level 6 course.
Vital role
“The haulage industry plays a vital role in supporting the nation’s economy and society, but it is suffering from a severe shortage of commercial drivers.
“Attracting new talent into the sector – particularly younger recruits as the average age of an HGV driver is over 45 – and raising the profile of the job opportunities available is key,” FTAI general manager Aidan Flynn said.
BBC News
By John Campbell
Published
image captionTrucks passing through customs at Dublin Port
Dublin Port has emerged as a major bottleneck for NI businesses trying to operate under new Brexit rules.
Around 20% of NI s trade goes through Dublin and haulage firms are reporting delays getting customs clearance for loads arriving from GB.
Freight companies in the Republic of Ireland have also reported difficulties.
The Irish customs authorities said part of the problem is businesses being unprepared for the new processes.
In a statement, the Irish Revenue Commissioners said they were surprised by the extent to which [some businesses] hadn t really addressed the work that needed to be completed in the months and years leading up to 1 January .
Freight firms seek six-month Brexit adjustment period
Ireland’s vulnerability can not be overstated in this new trading landscape the FTAI has warned
A container ship arrives into Dublin Port as a spokesman for the Freight Transport Association Ireland has told the Taoiseach in a letter that the new Brexit requirements for safety and security declarations and import/export declarations sees the industry struggling to keep the flow of goods moving. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA
Fri, 15 Jan, 2021 - 18:27
Nicole Glennon Irish freight transporters are seeking a six-month “adjustment period” on post-Brexit trade rules to help counteract the huge disruption facing hauliers as Brexit stockpiles dry up.
Post-Brexit demand for direct ferries causes capacity problems New ferry service ‘bumping’ lorries for vital imports of medicines and medical supplies
Wed, Jan 13, 2021, 01:44
Simon Carswell Public Affairs Editor Listen now 4:06
Hauliers are booked onto the new Rosslare to Dunkirk service operated by shipping line DFDS.
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Capacity issues are building on direct ferries between Ireland and mainland Europe as lorries avoiding Brexit checks through Britain are “bumped” to make way for vital imports of medicines and medical equipment.
Hauliers booked onto the new Rosslare to Dunkirk service operated by shipping line DFDS have complained that bookings are not being honoured where the ferries are overbooked.