Irish Trucker magazine August 2011

IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A COMPANY WITH A PASSION FOR HAULAGE

plus

LAUNCH

MoveIT 4.0™

AUGUST 2011 Vol. 14 No. 7 EURO 2.95 stg.£2.50

HAJ leading the way HAJ Repairs is one of Northern Ireland’s premier commercial vehicle repair specialists, providing a complete range of services from excellent workshops facilities in Bellaghy, County Derry. Irish Trucker paid a visit to the excellently-managed family business, near Magherafelt, and had a chat with commercial team leader Andrew Dempsey.

B

ased in Bellaghy, Andrew Dempsey oversees the commercial vehicle section County Derry, Northern Ireland, HAJ Repairs specialises in repairing and servicing commercial vehicles, cranes and plant machinery. A range of services is provided including MOT / PSV, general mechanical work, vehicle bodywork, handbrake / clutch testing, engine repairs (petrol and diesel), electrical repairs, safety checks, warranty work, welding, diagnostics, accident / breakdown and fleet maintenance / management.

Cars, coaches, lorries, base of satisfied customers both sides cranes, vans, minibuses, vintage cars, of the border. Specialist engineers and fork-lifts, tractors and diggers are all mechanics provide an auto repairs catered for. Authorised dealer parts can be sourced as requested. and heavy machinery service that is HAJ Repairs has several mobile service units on the road, enabling on-site repairs, and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, always aiming to meet the precise needs of clients – from northern and southern Ireland - and to work as quickly and efficiently as possible, Since its inception in 1993, when the company was founded by Harry Dempsey, HAJ Repairs has developed a wide

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simply second to none, conducting a highly-reliable and efficient service at all times, with every job meeting the strictest industry standards.

Andrew Dempsey, who oversees the commercial vehicle section, notes: “My father set the business up 18 years ago and we specialise in mobile crane maintenance and repairs as well as coach and minibus service and repairs.

But we do everything from a car up to a lorry with a 45-foot trailer. We’re extremely flexible and we have the capacity to service and repair all light and heavy vehicles.”

Harry Dempsey founded the company in 1993

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To HAJ Repairs, From

The facilities in Bellaghy

HAJ Repairs benefits from a

of-the-art workshop (containing the

Health & Social Care Trust’s transport

substantial volume of repeat business

latest diagnostic equipment and

department as well as private

and boasts a large portfolio of service

manned by four fully-qualified

operators and a host of local

/ maintenance / repair contracts.

technicians) was runner-up this year in

Regular clients include the Northern

authorities and government bodies.

The company’s well-appointed, state-

the Institute of Motor Industry’s

No job is too big for HAJ Repairs

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Specialists In Complete Workshop Fit Outs Altnagelvin Ind. Estate., Trench Road, L’derry BT47 2ED Tel: Fax: Email:

+0044 (0) 28 7131 2225 +0044 (0) 28 7131 8811 swsni@btconnect.com

SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES Wishing HAJ Repairs Continued Success In The Future From

C&C Engineering ENGINE RE-CONDITIONING

Contact Donald Thompson 51a Castle Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone BT80 8TN

Tel: (028) 8676 4464

J.N.K. Components Ltd. THE CAR, COMMERCIAL & TRACTOR PARTS PEOPLE Main Agents for: EXCELUBE OIL, VARTA BATTERIES, NIGAS & DONALDSON FILTERS

S.McPeake & Sons Ltd

NEW & USED CARS & COMMERCIALS

20 carnaman Road, Knockloughrim Magherafelt, Co. Derry BT45 8PN Tel: 028 7938 6353 • 028 7938 6131

www.smcpeake.co.uk Wishing Continued Success To HAJ Repairs

Wishing Continued Success To HAJ Repairs From

Combined & Co-ordinated Heavy Haulage Installation/Removal of Abnormal Units Specialists in Heavy Industrial Boiler Movement 10 Ackinduff Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT70 3AX

E: service@aceplantline.com • www.aceplantline.com Tel: +44 (0) 28 8776 1433 Fax: +44 (0) 28 8776 7017 Mobile: +44 (0) 7979 200002

Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT42 3HB

Tel: 028-256 48111 Fax: 028 256 42422 Email: info@jnkcomponents.co.uk

www.jnkcomponents.co.uk Best Wishes To HAJ Repairs

Wishing H.A.J. All The Best For The Future

Best Wishes To HAJ Repairs, From

P.T. Auto Electrics Call Peter On 078 51691018 Email: p.totten@yahoo.com

PLANT & COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ELECTRICS Repairs & Accessories Mobile Service Available

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11 Pound Rd., Magherafelt Co. Londonderry BT45 6NR Tel: (028) 796 31604 Fax: (028) 796 33780 Mobile: 0771-2875099 or 0771 2880338 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Northern Ireland Apprentice of the Year awards.

Andrew is pleased to report that things are going well for HAJ Repairs and his prognosis for the future is optimistic: “Business is excellent at present.

We’re being kept very busy, so we can’t complain. My father remains very much hands-on in the business, repairing and maintaining cranes on site throughout Northern Ireland, and we cover the mid-Ulster region with repairs. We’ll take it one day at a time, but for now the company is performing extremely well.”

The state-of-the-art workshop is open for business 13 hours a day (7am-8pm) Monday through Friday (and also providing customers with a 24-hour breakdown service) as well as opening for half day on Saturdays. HAJ Repairs is managed in a thoroughly professional, meticulous and competent fashion, offering clients a complete service that they can rely on. Health & Safety is a paramount consideration through every stage of the process.

HAJ’s commercial vehicle service department is equipped to handle all types of repair and maintenance work

Part of the team hard at work

on fleet vehicles, commercial vans, coaches, minibuses, lorries and more besides. The team at HAJ Repairs understands that commercial customers demand an urgent, professional response, therefore endeavouring to minimise downtime.

All workshop technicians boast extensive experience in every facet of maintaining and supporting commercial vehicles, while dedicated engineers receive ongoing training / education in the latest technologies

applicable to the industry.

Everything HAJ does is completely transparent with no hidden extras or nasty surprises awaiting the customer.

Once the original contact is made, all work is assessed prior to commencement and approval is sought from the client. Upon completion, relevant invoices are forwarded, detailing all work carried out, followed by statements of accounts at the end of each month.

This way, customers always know exactly what is going on. HAJ Repairs is equally adept at working on either entire fleets or individual fleets, from trucks to cars, cranes and plant – and everything in between!

COMPANY D ETAILS

HAJ Repairs 3 Ballyscullio n Road, Bellaghy, Magherafelt, County Derry BT45 8LD

Email: info@ hajrepairs.com Garage: 0287 93 Garage Manag 86728 er (Harry): 07860314518 Commercial Te am (Andrew): 07753819964 HAJ offer a complete range of services

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

http://www.haj repairs.com

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www.irishtrucker.com CONTENTS Irish Trucker is published by DG Press Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath Telephone: (046) 9241923 Fax: (046) 9241926

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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HAJ REPAIRS One of the premier commercial vehicles repair specialists

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Maintenance, repair and 24-hour recovery

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ISDN: 046-9248197 e mail:

HAJ Repairs P18

CCRS A first class recovery operator

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contact@lynngroupmedia.com

ISSN 0791-993X

STEPHEN RICE COMMERCIALS

P&J GILLANE 24/7 chilled distribution service

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EUREKA SOFTWARE Launching Move IT 4.0 ™

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A1 TRANSPORT

Stephen Rice Commercials P22

Proving its not a male dominated world

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KELLY EUROPEAN FREIGHT SERVICES Founded in 1997 in Antrim

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BANNER VEHICLE CENTRE Clare’s newest VTN

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TERRY LILLY

Kelly European Freight P42

Car and Commercial experts

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DRENNAN TRANSPORT Displaying a passion for haulage

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication can be published or reproduced in any way without the written permission of the author or Lynn Group Media © Copyright Lynn Group Media 2011 The opinions expressed in Irish Trucker do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers, their agents or Irish Trucker.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors that may appear.

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ATHLONE VAN HIRE Providing a top class service for over 10 years

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P&S CIVIL WORKS An impressive Cavan based business

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Banner Vehicle Centre P46

CUMMINS TRANSPORT Based in New Ross

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MAGEE HAULAGE A family firm in Tyrone

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LMC Celebrating 10 years in business

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MSM Metal recycling experts

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CLASSIFIEDS

MSM P74

Stephen Rice Commercial’s offers roadside recovery and repair

The Rice stuff Operating out of Tuam in County Galway, Stephen Rice Commercials provides a comprehensive range of stellar services to local hauliers, including maintenance, repairs and 24-hour recovery. Irish Trucker caught up with the eponymous founder / MD to discuss the history, current status and future plans of this multifaceted, versatile and hard-working concern.

T

wo-thousand-and-eleven marks five years in business for Stephen Rice Commercials.

Headquartered in Ballymote, Tuam, County Galway, the company offers full HGV, LGV and trailer maintenance and repairs and recovery, Texa and Jaltest diagnostics, and all ABS and

Hard work and dedication has built the company up

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EBS repairs on trucks, trailers and buses as well as being an approved tachograph, speed limiter and vehicle plating centre. Digital laser steering alignment is also available and Stephen Rice Commercials is renowned near and far as an air conditioning service centre. The firm’s

brake shoe relining services offer a same day turnaround and their staff are fully trained and certified on the various electronic systems and axels.

All training certificates are on display in their reception area. Additionally they specialise is tail lift and mobile hydraulic holes repair.

Other services available include 24hour towing and roadside assistance; laser headlight alignment; and auto electrical wiring.

Having served his time as a commercial vehicle mechanic, Stephen established the company in 2006, IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

There are two fully-equipped service vans on the road

noticing that the electronic side of commercial vehicle “We’re busy at the moment but cash flow is a real problem repairs was becoming increasingly prominent. “I went back for all businesses.” into the industry, having taken a career break for a few Even though business is steady, with Stephen Rice years,” he notes. “I started out as a one-man operation and Commercials having forged an excellent reputation for itself I now have a team of five working alongside me here.” in the west and midlands regions, the founder / MD intends In his busy, well-appointed, state-of-the-art workshop, to proceed cautiously in the short term as he attempts to Stephen spends the bulk of his time carrying out trailer consolidate: “I’m hoping to build workshop number two, with repairs, maintenance and servicing, working alongside the two extra pits, but I’m going to hold off for the time being, local DOE centre and offering keen MOT packages. The wait and see how the economy goes. The plans are in range of services on offer is vast, basically covering place, but you have to be cautious. Hopefully things will everything bar the actual DOE testing itself. But Stephen start to pick up soon. has his own pre-test lane as part of the spacious modern “We have a lot of regular clients who come back and give building, boasting approximately 6,000 sq ft of floor space. us repeat business and this – coupled with good references Phase One is the original building, while Phase Two is from existing customers – gives us a constant supply of almost complete, comprising reception, main offices, tea work. We also have the tachograph centre, speed limiter room, storage and the engineering workshop itself. Phase centre and do plating. We’re main service agents for Three is in the pipeline and will consist of an expansion of the workshop, with two new lanes.

A mobile repairs service is also available, as Stephen confirms: “I have two fully-equipped service vans on the road, with compressors, generators, welders and diagnostic equipment on board. Both these are manned around the clock, 24 hours a day.” Stephen Rice Commercials has all the original diagnostic softwear for Wabco, Haldex and Knorr-Bremse equipment.

The catchment area covered is pretty broad, including Counties Roscommon, Mayo and Galway as well as parts of Clare and into Westmeath and other parts of the midlands.

Stephen is pleased to report that business is quite brisk at present, despite the obvious downturn in the economy. However, as anyone running their own business will testify, it’s one thing getting the The state of the art workshop work but another matter entirely getting money in: IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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GLYNNS TRANSPORT

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT

Specialists In Medical & Pharma Transport Coolchain & Ambient • All Drivers G.D.P. & A.D.R. Trained We Offer Satellite Tracking & Live Temperature Monitoring On All Our Fleet 10000sq ft Warehouse • All Goods Stored To G.D.P. Requirements

Best Wishes To Rice Commercials

TUAM, GALWAY • T: 00353 87 2507283 OR 00353 93 24482 E: transport@glynns.ie • www.glynns.ie

Continued Best Wishes To Rice Commerials From

CSC Haulage

Best Wishes To Rice Commercials, From

Tanker Haulage & Crane Hire BREAKDOWN RECOVERY Annaghill, Ballyglunin, Tuam, Co. Galway

Contact Francis on 087 1225060

Best Wishes To Rice Commercials From

Best Wishes to Rice Commercials, from

MIDLAND TRUCK & TRAILER SPARES SAF • MERITOR & BPW AGENTS • DAF • VOLVO • MERCEDES ETC. • LASER HAND TOOLS • TENGTOOLS

Tel: 4588266 Fax: 4588282 Mobile: 087-6286849 24

Western Casing Limited Boyle Road, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon Tel: 094 98 70376 Fax: 094 98 70518 Email: westerncasingltd@gmail.com

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The firm is headquartered in Ballymote, Tuam

Wabco, Haldex, Knorr-Bremse, BPW and Kraker trailers and Stoneridge tachographs and speed limiters.”

Since the inception of his business, Stephen has always focused on providing a quality service as an absolute priority. On every job he has ever done, the utmost attention to detail has been a prerequisite, resulting in a multitude of satisfied customers. He believes that if he carries out all jobs professionally, efficiently and with the minimum of downtime, the rest will take care of itself. So far, this philosophy has served the Galway man well.

Deploying the best equipment and highly-trained technicians at a modern spacious facility with convenient

access, he has grown his business from strength to strength over the past five years, during which time quality workmanship has been his most effective advertising tool: “We don’t advertise as such,” he concludes. “A lot of our business is word of mouth. We provide an excellent service and we’re flexible.

We will go out of our way to meet a Best Wishes To Rice customer’s needs.

Commerials From We offer an aroundthe-clock service seven days a week at a very competitive price.

Clients appreciate when they don’t get messed around and they tend to Ellagh, Headford, Co. Galway recommend us to Tel: 087 6438503 or 087 9671421 others once they Fax: 093 34915 receive a good www.mcdonnelltransport.ie service.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Stephen Rice Commercials covers the West and Midlands

Stephen Rice Commercials has performed extremely well in the teeth of one of the worst recessions in living memory. Despite the volatile condition of the economy, there is every chance that – by continuing to do what it does best (i.e. providing a wide range of quality services at keen rates) – the Tuam-based commercial vehicle workshop will not just survive but thrive.

COMPANY D ETAILS

Stephen Rice Commercials Ballymote, Tuam, County Galw ay Phone: 093 42 89 Fax: 093 4289 0 1 Mobile: 087 93 35211

Email: s.ricecommer cials@gmail.c om

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CCRS is one of the most popular recovery operators on the island

Northern Ireland’s Premier Recovery Operator Headquartered in Bangor, County Down, CCRS (Car & Commercial Recovery Services) is Northern Ireland’s Premier Recovery Operator. Irish Trucker speaks to directors Stephen and Jason Hardy about the stellar services and extraordinary success of this long-running family business.

T

he genesis of CCRS occurred back in 1973. During the intervening 38 years, the company has developed into one of the most popular recovery operators on the Island, going from strength to

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strength by providing exceptional customer and vehicle care. The very highest of standards are achieved through a total commitment to investment in professional staff training, state-of-the-art recovery

equipment, and having a thorough understanding of customer needs.

The business was established by Uel and Grace Hardy, and today joined in running the company by their sons Stephen and Jason, who were literally IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

raised within the confines of the family business.

Operating from sites in Belfast and Bangor, CCRS offers a complete rescue and recovery service throughout the province particularly in the greater Belfast, Lisburn, Newtownabbey and County Down area’s. “There’s never any problem going anywhere. The range of 24-hour services available includes roadside rescue and assistance, prestige recovery and transportation, and light and plant recovery. With a reputation in the industry for providing a prompt, reliable and professional service, CCRS is the preferred firstchoice solution for all motoring organisations and leading insurance companies including car and commercial dealerships, body shops, fleet operators, government departments and private motorists.

The company has always been committed to the highest possible operating standards. CCRS is accredited to UKAS Quality Management ISO 9001 and is fully PAS 43 compliant, priding itself on high levels of customer care and the keenest attention to detail.

Commercial vehicle recovery is an extremely important facet of the overall business, as Stephen confirms: “We do a lot of commercial IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Attention to detail sees all CCRS drivers in uniform

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To CCRS From

71-73 Court Street., Newtownards, Co. Down BT23 7NX T: 028 91 81 2509 • E: andrewscarelectrics@hotmail.co.uk

www.andrewscarelectrics.com

Best Wishes to CCRS, From

Wishing Continued Success To CCRS

VEHICLE TESTING NETWORK

Specialising in the cross channel movement of vehicles, covering England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Europe 141 Clooney Road, Greysteel, Northern Ireland

SPECIALISTS IN DOE Testing- HGV LGV ADR 24 Hour Heavy Recovery Service Tacho Calibration Centre Van & Truck Sales & Rental 24 Hour Tyre Service Service & Maintenance

Tel/Fax: (028) 7181 1161 Email: info@eamonmclaughlin.com

www.eamonmclaughlin.com Best Wishes To CCRS

Our Services

MOT Cheap Tyres Exhausts Call Now on 028 907 92 900 Batteries After Hours Service 079 707 92 900 105 Gilnahirk Rd., Gilnahirk, BT5 7QL Brakes www.belfasttyres.co.uk Wheels

Wishing Continued Success To CCRS, From

CP Commercials, Unit 42 Baldoyle Ind Est., Dublin 13 T: (01) 832 1316 F: (01) 839 1470 Daytime 087 255 4462 or 087 2077633 24 Hour Towing & Recovery : 087 277 3969 Professionals Doing A Professional Job!

APPROVED

BY AVRO, IVR, RAC, AA

Wishing Continued Success To CCRS

Suppliers of high quality Garage Equipment Vehicle Lifting • Brake Testers • MOT Packages Emission Testing • On - site Calibration of Workshop Tools Workshop Design and Installation.

Tel Belfast 028 90 772 666 (ROI- 048) www.gemco.co.uk 28

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A 5 tonne SLA Super Low approach slide bed and 2 tonne spec lift

work, working for all the local authorities, covering five local Boroughs Councils. We also work for the likes of DOE Road & Water Services, Northern Ireland Ambulance Services among many haulage and Commercial vehicle repair specialists.”

CCRS can handle all recovery needs of owner drivers and fleet operators including 24-hour towing, coach and bus recovery, accident recovery, heavy winching.. Stephen states that “an unexpected breakdown in today’s demanding transport environment can potentially present a logistical nightmare, CCRS is focused on

minimising inconvenience and down time, repairing at Roadside or recovering vehicles to a destination of the owner’s choice - quickly and safely and at competitive rates”.

CCRS’s heavy recovery vehicles are equipped with the latest ‘Maxi-reach’ under-lifts for carrying out zerodamage recovery of all modern heavy commercial vehicles. Specialist wheel grids are available to ensure effective recovery of modern coaches, lifting and supporting the casualty directly under the wheels eliminating any possibility of damage.

Recovery vehicles stow all requisite

specialist auxiliary equipment for providing all recovery solutions and meeting all eventualities. The company’s own operators are experienced, Class 1 drivers holding full ADR licenses for handling vehicles carrying hazardous goods. They are highly trained to industry standards and are very motivated individuals with a working background in commercial vehicles.

CCRS’s team can quickly deploy all the relevant recovery equipment to the scene of major incidents - air cushions, flood lighting, cutting gear, mobile cranes, low loaders etc. Load

Specialists In Complete Workshop Fit Outs Altnagelvin Ind. Estate., Trench Road, L’derry BT47 2ED Tel: Fax: Email:

+0044 (0) 28 7131 2225 +0044 (0) 28 7131 8811 sales@swsni.com

SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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No job is to big for CCRS

trans-shipments can be dealt with by forklifts and / or lorry-mounted cranes.

Loads dispersed off-road can be retrieved by an allterrain forklift, which also has winching facilities.

The heart of the operation is in the modern 24-hour control room which uses the latest technologies in software and satellite tracking management, ensuring a swift and efficient deployment, moments from taking a call. Computer systems are linked to work providers, enabling electronic job transfer and invoicing.

Utilising real-time tracking in front-line vehicles ensures that the nearest appropriate vehicle is redirected to each job, greatly improving efficiency and reducing

No stone is left unturned in delivering a quality service at CCRS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To CCRS

3 Church Lane, Moira Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim BT28 2TT

Tel: 028 9262 1449 Fax: 028 9262 1095 Email: info@kiddcommercials.com

www.kiddcommercials.com 30

Continued Best Wishes To CCRS From

J&F GROUP

43 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey BT36 4PP Telephone: 028 9034 2019 Fax: 028 9034 2969 Email:sales@jandfgroup.co.uk

www.jandfgroup.co.uk IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

response times. This also enables CCRS to monitor vehicle speed, direction and status as well as accurately updating customers on job progress. Meanwhile, in-cab GPS navigation terminals helps drivers maintain an impressive average response time of 34 minutes in operational areas.

The trusty crew plays a very important role in the success of CCRS. The team comprises of highlytalented and -motivated individuals some who have been with the company over 23 years, all are ambassadors of the company and are attired in company-branded uniforms, and always extremely courteous in carrying out their duties.

All recovery drivers are highly skilled and have received certified training from the IVRUK. Ongoing in-house training programs ensure that they are knowledgeable and efficient in all aspects of the business, delivering a high level of customer care and professionalism with total confidence.

When required, recovered vehicles are stored in the secure compound.

CCRS provides large indoor, alarmed storage for cars and commercials including a dehumidified two-bay SOCO room for vehicles requiring forensic investigation. The premises are covered 24/7 by CCTV. Investment in the very latest, cuttingedge recovery equipment is ongoing and the Hardys have just taken possession of a new sliding axle recovery trailer for loaded eight wheelers and coaches etc. The recovery fleet comprises of 15 units and most of these are on the road seven days a week, covering all of Northern Ireland “There’s never any problem going anywhere. We go wherever we’re required to go,” Jason notes. “If a haulage company has a

breakdown in Dublin or Strabane, and a roadside fix isn’t practicable we’ll go, no problem and bring them home” Stephen joined the family business on a full-time basis nine years ago, having previously driven articulated trucks out of Belfast & Dublin Docks, so he certainly boasts a total understanding of both sides of the business. “I appreciate what the needs of hauliers are and I know the kind of service they expect. They don’t like to spend money unnecessarily and they don’t like to be off the road, so we provide a quick and 100% secure service at competitive rates.”

Two mobile, roadside repairs service vehicles are available fully kitted with spares and Computer Diagnostic Equipment. If roadside isn’t possible then CCRS have the capability to affect repairs at their own modern commercial workshop which is situated at the 4 acre Bangor depot, which comprises of a 15-metre inspection pit and is complemented by the newly installed brake rollers for the forth coming 6 weekly inspections.

CCRS Maintenance is now a major factor, also having the responsibility in keeping our immaculately kept fleet on the road of course, but breakdown recovery will always remain at the forefront of the business with which the company is renowned.

As for the secret of the company’s success, Stephen concludes: “Always being on the other end of the phone Customers know that they will receive an experienced and professional service, we can be relied upon to do the job properly, any time, day or night, 365 days a year. From the moment the call is taken, we get down to business immediately, ensuring that the right people are assigned to the specific task as well as the correct equipment to get the customer safely

CCRS operates to the highest standards

off the road – and back onto it as quickly as possible.

“We never claimed to be the biggest in our field but we’re proud to offer the best and most-friendly service. We have grown in very tough times, so we will continue to provide a first-class service and hopefully we will continue to grow. Volumes may have decreased in the Commercial side during the down turn, but our reputation and customer base is growing all the time, so we’re looking forward to the future with great optimism.”

COMPANY D ETAILS

CCRS Journey’s End , Cotton Road, Bangor, BT19 7QG Tel: 028 9145 02 Fax: 028 9147 00 8383

Email: control@ccrs recovery.plus. com www.ccrsrecov ery.com

JAMES KERNOHAN & SONS Commercial Vehicle Dismantlers • All Types of Commercial Vehicles Dismantled • We Specialise In Mercedes,Volvo, Scania • Underlift Damage Free Recovery • Wide Range Of Used Parts • Just yell.com

Wishing Continued Success To CCRS

(028) 9447 8228 Fax: (028) 9447 9157 18a Tamlough Road Randalstown BT41 3DP

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

13, Ballinderry Rd, Lisburn, Co Antrim BT28 2SA Tel 02892 678471. Fax 02892 678470 e-mail: roy@ro-coautosolutions.com colin@ro-coautosolutions.com

www.ro-coautosolutions.com EXPERTS AT SERVICING MODERN CARS TO MANUFACTURER’S STANDARDS Continued Success To All At C.C.R.S.

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DHL expand German operation

DHL has just employed their 3000th employee at its European Air Freight Hub

Logistics firm DHL has just employed their 3000th employee at its European air freight hub at Leipzig/Halle, Germany. The company’s operation has gone from strength to strength due to the economic boom in the country as well as its imports/exports which are way ahead of the rest of Europe.

Walter Scheurle, Board Member for Personnel at Deutsche Post DHL, said: “We take our responsibility towards our employees and society very seriously in every country in the world. That’s why we are happy to keep our promise of continuing to create new jobs in the Leipzig/Halle region.”

Deutsche Post DHL opened the hub in May 2008 after two years of construction at the Leipzig/Halle airport. Built for its express and logistics subsidiary DHL, the group invested approximately €300 million (US$434.4m) in the new facility.

Ford Transit offers peace of mind: Warranty, Road Tax, Servicing and Roadside Assistance all covered Ford Ireland has announced a special package on the best-selling Ford Transit range designed to keep operating costs to a minimum for van owners and operators over the life of the vehicle.

Every model from the Transit range purchased up to the end of September comes with: · · · ·

Free 4-year warranty 4 years’ free servicing and roadside assistance 2 years’ free road tax And a €1,500 trade-in bonus.

“These are testing times for many of the businesses out there who use Transit, be they one-man or fleet operators,” says Eddie Murphy, Ford Ireland Chief. “Many would like to replace their vans this year, having deferred purchases for a few years. This package gives some much needed certainty in terms of fixed costs in relation to running these vehicles, leaving their operators free to focus on the important job of running their business”.

Almost 120,000 Transits have been sold in Ireland over the past 45 years, making it by far the most popular van in the country over that period.

Earlier this month, Ford announced free 4-year warranty, 4-year servicing and 4-year roadside assistance on the Ford Mondeo.

The Ford Transit is available in Ireland in over 100 standard configurations, starting from €20,170*. *Prices quoted exclude delivery and related charges. For full listing of prices and options, check out www.ford.ie

P&O extend fleet P&O Ferries have added to its Teesport-Zeebrugge service as the shipping firm has taken a new state-of-the-art ro-ro ship on charter. The new vessel called the Bore Song has a total of 2,863 lane metres of space and the main deck has a height of 7.4 metres, which means a high proportion of containers can be double-stacked. There are fixed decks and hoistable car decks which have the capacity to carry a mix of around 250 freight units double-stacked, plus 200 cars.

“Overall, this ship has significantly more carrying capacity than the Norstream, the vessel it is replacing at Teesport,” P&O said.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

M&M MODELS Ireland’s Sole Agents of WSI Model Trucks Scale 1.50 Also stockists of Nooteboom Model Trucks, Scale 1.50

M.Keys Livestock SCANIA R TOPLINE LIVESTOCK TRAILER

Just Released Now In Stock Marron Transport SCANIA R TOPLINE CURTAIN SIDER TRAILER NOW TAKEN PRE ORDERS

CONTACT

Mark Tierney 087 3277757 Email: markptierney@eircom.net

Mark Downey 087 1486293 Follow Us On Facebook - Mand Models IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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TRUCK NEWS on with i t a i c o s s in a

01 862 0000

Putting load handling safety into proportion

By Richard Short, Sales Director, Penny Hydraulics Cranes offer an ideal way to handle loads of all shapes and sizes (fv1200_withdumpy-150pix.jpg).Platform lifts are ideal for all types of load, especially those that can be rolled into position (easyloader150pix.jpg).

Thirty one percent of all fatal, serious and over-three-day injuries reported by the HSE for the year ending April 2010 were related to manual handling. A further 30% were caused by slips, trips and falls on the same level and 9% to falls from any height.

These represent the first, second and fourth largest categories in the HSE’s figures and equate to more than 80,000 people whose lives were directly affected. Countless more family members, friends, colleagues and employers will have also been involved. These figures make stark reading and once again highlight the importance of health and safety in the workplace.

It is tempting to be complacent and believe that “it couldn’t happen here”. But there is another way of looking at these figures - the most likely accident or injury in any workplace will be in these categories rather than some of those that have historically been taken far more seriously.

Often the simplest way to reduce the risk of an accident and resulting injury is to remove the potential cause. That means, for example, eliminating the need for manual handling by providing employees with crane or platform lift on their vehicles or a goods lift in the workplace. This has clear implications for handling, of course, but will also help reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls because many of these accidents occur as a result of people climbing onto a vehicle or up a ladder when load handling equipment would remove the need.

Handling equipment suppliers such as Penny Hydraulics continue to play their part by adding new features to their products that promote safety and make it easier for operators to specify and install them.

There is a trend in crane manufacture to incorporate full hydraulic control for all but the lightest units. Hydraulic control of boom lifting and lowering as well as slew (sideways movement) and rotation helps ensure smooth and precise load handling with reduced risk of the sudden and unexpected movements that can cause accidents to users and bystanders.

These features are now widely available on cranes with maximum working load as low as 500kg. The use of proportional controls, another recent innovation on smaller cranes, helps to ensure movements follow the amount the levers are depressed which promotes even greater precision and safety.

Remote controls are also increasingly popular with operators. These are especially useful from a safety point of view because they reduce the need for operators to climb on their vehicles. Instead they stand well away from the vehicle and load when handling is in progress. In general, two types of control are available. The first is attached to the crane or platform lift by a length of cable known as a wander lead while the second is a wireless device that provides the user with complete autonomy to stand in any position with the best all-round view of the working area.

Another aspect of crane and platform lift design is the drive to take out weight without compromising on performance and safety. During the last year or so Penny Hydraulics has used its advanced CAD and finite element analysis tools to reengineer its crane and platform lift ranges to reduce weight through optimised design and use of alternative materials which replace some steel components with lighter alloys. Operators can now install one of these devices with reduced impact on the overall vehicle weight to leave more carrying capacity for improved operational flexibility and productivity.

A4 bypass on hold Northern Ireland Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has admitted that there is no funding to build the A4 bypass.

Speaking at the recent announcement of the preferred route for the proposed A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass, the minister stated that even though the scheme was agreed, it would not proceed until the funding was available, which may be some time. "I have to be absolutely honest and say, as of today, I do not have the money to fund the Enniskillen bypass," he said. "That is not to say that I, and my officials shouldn't be continuing to bring forward projects and schemes, to put in place the necessary planning permissions and the statutory approvals, so that when money becomes available we can act quickly and proceed with a project of this nature. "As regional development minister, it is my job to look strategically as to where we want to be in a number of years, not just to say we don't have any money, we can't do anything, but to look forward to the opportunities that are provided by a scheme of this nature."

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Shell profits on the rise Despite a fall in production, Royal Dutch Shell PLC have reported that they have almost doubled their second quarter profits to $8.66bn. Shell said profits were boosted by higher oil prices, gains on hedging derivatives and the sale of businesses. Net profit in the same period a year ago was $4.39bn (€3.05bn).

Though Shell has been investing heavily in new projects, production fell 2% to 3.05 million barrels per day. Excluding sales, production would have risen 2%, it said. Profits at the company's downstream operations, which include its refining arm, declined slightly.

Retail sales in further decline Retail sales are continuing to plummet according to figures recently released and this is impacting on many hauliers that are involved in the industry. The Central Statistic Office figures show the depth of the crisis facing the sector at the moment. Retail Ireland director Torlach Denihan said that it was a major concern. "It is of particular concern that the 3% year on year fall in core retail sales (excluding cars and bars) in the second quarter of the year was greater than the fall in the first quarter. Year on year core retail sales have declined continuously since early 2008,” he said. "The difficulties experienced by Superquinn, an iconic name in the retail sector, demonstrate the depth of the crisis. It is critical that Government take action to protect the 240,000 jobs in the sector. Government should give consumers certainty by communicating to the public what lies ahead in the next budget, address excessive labour costs in the sector, reduce local authority rates and accelerate legislation to abolish upward-only rent reviews in existing leases."

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Work commences on Tralee Bypass

Work has commenced on the long awaited Tralee bypass .

Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar officially cut the ribbon and turned the first sod on the project on August 4th before the real work began. The bypass will be 13.5km long and is set to reduce traffic in Tralee town by up to 25% thus eliminating the tailbacks that have long affected the town. The project is set to cost the taxpayer €60 million and is due to be completed late next year.

Long awaited Tralee Bypass has begun

Manufacturing activity falls

Minister turns sod on N25 road

Activity in the Irish manufacturing sector fell in July for the second successive month. The drop in new orders is accelerating and the worrying fall in manufacturing output will have a negative knock-on effect on the haulage sector. June's fall in the NCB Purchasing Managers' Index was the first since September last year. However, last month, the index recorded 48.2 - down from 49.8 in June. (Any figure below 50 means that activity in the sector fell.) New orders fell steeper than in June but export orders experienced slight growth. Companies reduced staff numbers for the third month in a row, although the drop in employment was small. Rising oil and commodity prices mean firms' costs continued to rise sharply, though the increase of 59.3 was not as big as in previous months. Strong competition and weak demand limited companies' ability to pass higher costs on to customers. The Irish survey comes just after weak manufacturing figures from the US and China. NCB economist Brian Devine says manufacturing output had been the positive dynamic in the Irish economy over the last number of years and it was worrying to see the PMI index again signalling contraction.

Minster for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar TD has officially commenced works on the N25 Cork Southern Ring Road. The Minister said: “Turning the sod on this important new road project will benefit Cork City, Cork County and the greater region.” The proposed Scheme will provide the final link to a high capacity, free flowing route from the Western end of the N22 Ballincollig Bypass to the Northern end of the Jack Lynch Tunnel for longer distance strategic traffic with a projected reduction in journey time of 75% over the extent of the Scheme during peak periods. The proposed Scheme will provide a high quality linkage between the N22 and N71 in the Southwest with the N8, N25 and N28 in the North East.

The Minister continued: “This project will improve road safety, inter-regional connectivity and improve the quality of life for people living and working in County Cork. With an investment of €98 million on the construction of the N25 Cork Southern Ring Road it is tangible evidence of this Government’s commitment to road safety and economic growth. This follows the €75 million boost for shovel-ready transport projects which got the green light earlier this year, and which will assist our countries economic recovery.” National Roads Authority CEO Fred Barry said: “The N25 Cork Southern Ring Road project will deliver more consistent journey times to and through the Cork region by providing a high quality link between the N22 and N71 in the Southwest with the N8, N25 and N28.”

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Ford launches “Drive to Fitness” campaign targetting company car and van drivers Survey of Drivers Reveals Stresses of Life on the Road: Bad Food Choices & High Level of Smoking At a media briefing in Dublin today, Ford Ireland launched its Drive to Fitness campaign which is aimed at encouraging company car and van drivers to look after their health through better food choices and more regular exercise.

As part of the campaign, Ford commissioned research into the lifestyle of these drivers and the findings show that they have health issues that are mainly attributable to the sedentary and often stress-filled nature of their work.

The campaign seeks to provide tips for these drivers on how they can make small changes to their diet and exercise regime which can help redress the balance.

Model Karena Graham helped launch Ford’s Drive to Fitness campaign with Eddie Murphy, Chairman & Managing Director of Ford Ireland – the campaign is aimed at encouraging company car and van drivers to look after their health through better food choices and more regular exercise. Drivers can access a range of healthy advice at www.drivetofitness.ie or from an information leaflet available from Ford dealers and Applegreen fuel outlets across Ireland. ”

Some of the key findings of the research include: · 74% of respondents admitted to being overweight – even allowing for some drivers who did not truthfully answer this question, that is roughly 18% more than in the adult population at large · In spite of the above statistic, 57% of

drivers still maintain they are healthy · 41% of drivers admitted to regularly eating lunch in their vehicles with 46% providing a packed lunch while 24% opt for take-away food from shops or garages · 30% of drivers smoke, and of these 95% smoke over 30 cigarettes a day – this contrasts with the adult population generally, less than a quarter of whom smoke. · While over half of drivers claim to exercise two to three times per week, only 27% feel exercise would contribute to their health and well-being · 92% say their employers do not promote healthy eating programmes or provide any type of medical screening Speaking about the campaign, Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Chief Executive of Ford Ireland said: “Spending a large part of your working day behind the wheel can very often lead to a stressful and potentially unhealthy lifestyle, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Our campaign tries to highlight simple steps that these drivers can take in order to redress the balance”.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) have both also endorsed the campaign. Speaking at the media briefing, Deirdre Sinnott, Senior Policy Inspector with the HSA said: “The Authority has a strategy to contribute positively to peoples’ health at work and we believe that this can be achieved by encouraging workplace practices that promote good health”.

As part of the Drive to Fitness campaign, Ford has partnered with nutritional therapist, Elsa Jones and in collaboration, they have produced a handy information leaflet that gives helpful nutrition tips for drivers. The leaflet also includes information on exercises that can help to keep drivers alert and fit for the road. The information leaflets are available from Applegreen fuel outlets ànd Ford Dealerships nationwide.

The campaign also features a website (www.drivetofitness.ie) where more information can be accessed.

The Ford Drive to Fitness survey of drivers was carried out by Fleet Transport magazine; the survey included responses from over 600 drivers.

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Bad news for oil giant Total French oil giant Total says its profits were down 12% in the second quarter of 2011. Even though profits fell to €2 billion, the company maintains a positive outlook for the second half of 2011. Having made a strong start to the year, Total attributed the fall in net profits (compared to the same time last year) to a decline in the refining sector in Europe and a cessation of its production in Libya due to the civil unrest there. “The combination of sustained global demand and geopolitical troubles increased tensions in the oil market during the second quarter,” according to the group's chief executive Christophe de Margerie. “Total begins the second half of 2011 very confident in its outlook for profitable growth.” Sales rose by 15% in the first half of 2011 (to €91 billion), while secondquarter sales were up 9% compared to a year ago.

Exports rose for first four months of year The value of Irish exports rose by 8% in the first four months of 2011. This is according to recent figures from the Central Statistics Office and it spells good news for the transport sector. Medical and pharmaceutical products showed the biggest increases, while more than one half of all our exports went to the US, Britain and Belgium.

Interestingly, imports also increased by 13% during the same time, with the biggest increase being recorded in none other than transport equipment. Exports were static in May, while the value of imports fell by 24%.

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IRFU, GAA, FAI Presidents support Carsharing.ie A new car sharing website carsharing.ie that helps people to link up to share journeys and save motoring costs has been launched nationwide by Public and Commuter Transport Minister, Alan Kelly T.D. who is also responsible for smarter travel initiatives. The website has been developed by the National Transport Authority to encourage car users to make the most of their car journeys by offering and seeking lifts wherever possible instead of driving alone.

Staff in several large organisations are already participating in the initiative including Microsoft, ESB, Deloitte, NUI Galway and the Cherrywood and Central Park business estates in Dublin, with over 1,000 people already sharing lifts to and from work.

Pictured at the launch are sporting presidents from left Caleb Powell, IRFU, The Presidents of the FAI, GAA and IRFU joined Paddy McCaul, FAI and Christy Cooney, GAA with Public, Minister Kelly to launch the initiative. Paddy Commuter Transport Minister Alan Kelly TD McCaul (FAI), Christy Cooney (GAA) and Caleb Powell (IRFU) are encouraging players, teams, supporters and parents nationwide to car share going to and from local, regional and national fixtures or simply when ferrying younger players around to the same venues from week to week.

Carsharing.ie is free to use by individuals, sports clubs, festival or event organisers and workplaces nationwide setting up their own car sharing groups.

99% profit plunge for Toyota

Toyota’s suffer massive fall in profits

Toyota’s net profit for the three-month period to the end of June was down 99% from the same period last year. The massive fall in profits was down mainly to production disruption caused by the Japanese earthquake and tsunami in March. Toyota – the world’s biggest vehicle manufacturer –made a net profit of 1.16 billion yen ($14.9m) in its first financial quarter. The Japanese manufacturer has raised its full-year net profit forecast on recovery hopes. Amid power and parts supply problems, Toyota announced production disruptions domestically and overseas because of the double natural disaster, temporarily slowing output or shutting plants. But production is expected to fully recover by the end of the year.

The strong yen against other currencies has meanwhile hit repatriated profits and made it more expensive for Toyota to produce cars in Japan for sale overseas. 'In Japan and North America where the effects of the earthquake were particularly serious, vehicle sales declined substantially,' said Toyota senior managing officer Takahiko Ijichi. In Japan, vehicle sales totalled 292,000 units, a decrease of 208,000 units compared to the same period in the previous financial year. But the company is targeting a second-half recovery as production issues subside, and earnings forecasts increased for June. It now expects to post a net profit of 390 billion yen in the financial year to March 2012 - 39% higher than a 280 billion yen forecast in two months ago.

New pothole website launched A new website allowing people to report potholes has promised a 48hour response. The website – fixyourstreet.ie – will provisionally operate for three months in the South Dublin County Council area. It will then be rolled out to all local authorities. Visitors can report problems such as potholes, graffiti and illegal dumping. Reports can be made directly to the website, through email or on twitter. A mobile phone app is also being developed for the site. Officials in South Dublin Co. Co. promise to respond to all reports within two working days. Members of the public can monitor the response time and interact / provide feedback through all stages of the problem being fixed.

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Government ministers eye bus lanes Government ministers are giving themselves permission to drive in bus lanes (when on official business...). They lost this perk when they belatedly gave up official Garda drivers and currently have to ‘make do’ with civilian drivers in their own personal cars instead. But the Irish Independent recently reported that the hard-pressed ministers have once more given themselves the go-ahead to use bus lanes.

A ministerial order to the Road Traffic Act is set to make the matter official. God forbid one of them didn’t get to work on time. The entire country would fall apart. The perk for ministers “on official business” was agreed before Fine Gael and Labour ministers headed off on their well-earned summer holidays. On the same day as they signed off on the €100 household service charge and reforms of wage rates for low-paid workers, ministers secretly agreed to allow their civilian cars with civilian drivers to bypass the rules of the road and use the bus lanes. Nice work if you can get it.

Ministers will now be able to use bus lanes

TomTom Extends Business Solutions into the Cork area TomTom, the world's leading provider of location and navigation solutions, has extended its Business Solutions into the Cork area through a partnership with technology experts V Mobile.

TomTom Business Solutions has a proven track record in the delivery of cost effective driving technology across continental Europe. Its extension across Ireland will see a series of products and services, which will improve cost savings for firms that run fleet vehicles.

Since launching into Ireland in March, TomTom Business Solutions has continued to expand through a network of resellers – all of whom are locally based companies or individuals.

Philip Bailie, Account Manager, TomTom Ireland said: “Its a significant step forward for TomTom Business Solutions to have a local reseller in the Cork area. Now we will see our solutions specifically tailored to the needs of local businesses, enabling them to reduce their costs, become more efficient and keep their staff safe on the roads.

“In Ireland around 30% of companies with vehicle fleets currently use GPS tracking technology. This number is set to increase significantly as more companies with fleets see an immediate return on investment when they use this type of technology, which enables them to manage their vehicles much more cost effectively.”

Mark McCarthy , MD of V Mobile added: “TomTom is synonymous with efficient driving and cost savings and our team is poised to bring this technology to local businesses who can benefit from using this technology. Our knowledge of the local market means that we are well positioned to effectively develop TomTom Business Solutions within the Cork area, and we are looking forward to working with a world leader in fleet management techology.”

TomTom has spent many years developing specialist technology that delivers information which has a direct impact on business efficiency. This enables businesses to provide a better service, increase productivity, generate more profit and ensure sustainability.

TomTom recently launched its Traffic Manifesto in Ireland, which outlines how a significant number of drivers using HD Traffic will Philip Bailie, Account Manager, TomTom Ireland (left) seals the deal with Mark McCarthy, MD of V Mobile benefit the majority of road users, even if they are not actually using a device. As a consequence, journey times are cut for all vehicles, and less fuel is wasted sitting in jams.

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9

Gap between costs and haulage rates widening A Freight Transport Association report shows that haulage rates are failing to keep up with the rising costs of running a transport business. In its 2011 Manager’s Guide to Distribution Costs, the FTA calculates that the total rise in vehicle operating costs for hauliers in the twelve months to April 1st was 6.8%. At the same time, the cost of diesel for fleets rose 15.6%. FTA research analyst Bruce Goodhart says: “The high and rising cost of fuel continues to put companies under considerable financial pressure. With haulage rates failing to keep up with increasing vehicle operating costs, profit margins are being squeezed and jobs put at risk, hampering economic recovery.” The FTA guide is produced annually, based on data supplied by member companies. Included in this year’s document are updated bulk diesel prices and operating cost forecasts, as well as haulage rate trends and information on wage trends for drivers, and the latest vehicle operating cost tables. Though the report focuses on UK statistics, the problems highlighted are a mirror image of what’s happening here in Ireland.

Northern Ireland charges highest petrol prices in the UK Petrol prices in Northern Ireland are higher than anywhere else in the UK, according to the AA Fuel Price Report for July.

The report also shows that the province is the third most expensive place for diesel. Unleaded costs 136.4p per litre compared to a UK average of 135.6p. Diesel is 140p per litre, which is 0.3p higher than the 139.7p average. A supermarket price war at the end of June knocked petrol prices down 2.5p. However, that has been cancelled out by resurgent oil market speculation. Petrol and diesel prices are now only marginally below where they were a month ago, while the barrel price of oil is $117.

Average unleaded prices in the UK have fallen by 0.5p from 136.1p per litre to 135.6p and diesel prices have fallen by 0.1p, from 139.8p to 139.7p.

Construction activity still shrinking

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Activity in the construction sector fell again last month according to the latest Ulster Bank property index.

The sector has now been in decline for 50 consecutive months.

Companies continue to lay off workers and positive sentiment has dipped to its lowest level since January. The civil engineering sector was hardest hit as Government spending on capital projects continued to decrease. But Ulster Bank Chief Economist Simon Barry claims it’s not all bad news: “The rate of decline in new business did ease back a little bit. Orders are now falling at their slowest pace in about ten months. “If that trend were to continue then that would be helpful and it would give us some kind of encouragement that the sector may not be all that far away from bottoming out. But in the very short term the most likely outcome is probably for continued decline.”

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Port of Cork shows signs of improvement

Volumes have risen at the Port of Cork

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The port of Cork saw its volumes jump 8.5% to 8.8 million tonnes in 2010, as the Irish economy started to show signs of recovery. The port said trade increases were most notable in oil, animal foodstuffs, fertilisers, salt, coal, trade cars, zinc exports and ro-ro traffic. Brittany Ferries’ Cork to Roscoff route had a very successful season from March to November and, overall, the port’s ro-ro business was significantly boosted last year by the resumption of the ferry service linking Cork with Swansea. However, the port’s container traffic was reduced by around 1%, to 147,526teu, which was enough to maintain the port’s status as the second busiest in Ireland, in terms of numbers of containers handled. On the financial front, turnover for the year increased by €1.2 million (US$1.7m) to €22 million, while operating profit, before exceptional costs and interest was up €500,000 to €2 million. Port Chairman Dermot O’Mahoney said: “Despite a reasonable increase of 5.6% in turnover, Port of Cork has had to take a closer look at its current business practices to ensure more efficient work practices and better control of costs. An increase in exports of 9.7% on 2009 shows some areas are returning to growth, and this is positive for the region.”

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Nightline appointed to handle leading Irish fashion deliveries Nightline has been appointed to handle deliveries to Irish customers for some Britain’s biggest fashion retailers. The carrier will be processing orders on behalf of the Coast, Oasis, Warehouse and Karen Millen store chains. It is the latest clutch of leading retails brands to join forces with Nightline, which is Ireland’s leading independent delivery company, within a year of its opening a UK regional office. Nightline’s UK Regional Managing Director Geremy Ruffin described the contract win as a major vindication of the company’s B2C operations. “The fact that some of the biggest names in UK retail are giving us the responsibility of dealing with all their Irish deliveries illustrates their belief that we really are best suited for the task. “We know how demanding consumers can be and understand that, with internet shopping, the individual making a doorstep delivery is almost an extension of the retailer from which goods have been ordered.

“Therefore, our work with these brands is testament to Nightline’s ability to maintain excellent standards of customer service and efficient deliveries right across Ireland in a way that no-one else can.” As well as its internet shopping presence, the four brands have 1600 stores in 49 countries around the globe and a combined worldwide turnover of more than £750 million. Nightline, which has just entered its 20th year in business, opened its UK regional office in Lancashire in May last year to complement its network of seven wholly-owned depots across Ireland. The initiative has already led to the acquisition of a string of prestigious contracts. It was appointed to handle the four brands’ work by Toll Supply Chain Solutions, which is responsible for dealing with all of the retailer’s logistics needs.

SeaFrance to go it alone The SeaFrance union CFDT is reported to be preparing a takeover bid for the troubled shipping firm. The deadline for bids expired on 26 July, but the judicial administrators have agreed to allow the union time to formulate its offer. The CFDT’s bid focuses on the creation of a Société Co-opérative Ouvrière de Production (SCOP) – a co-operative of SeaFrance workers who would own and manage the company.

More information on the bid is expected to be disclosed next month, and the union says it is aiming to present “a coherent and alternative takeover project” to the Paris commercial tribunal at the end of October when SeaFrance’s period in administration ends.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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GreatGas announces that legislation change means petrol can now be sold at Ireland’s only unmanned service station in Santry, Dublin Great Gas Petroleum (Ireland) Ltd, the nationwide fuel supplier which operates Ireland’s only fully unmanned self-service filling station, is delighted to announce that petrol is now available at the Santry based forecourt thanks to a change in Irish legislation.

Until now, only diesel was available at GreatGas 24/7 on the Old Airport Road in Santry, Dublin 9 as dispensing petrol on an unmanned forecourt was prohibited by Irish law. This legislation has now been changed and petrol is now on offer at the outlet.

The revolutionary GreatGas 24/7 ‘pay-at-the-pump’ forecourt opened in Santry two years ago and has been a huge success. The addition of petrol to the forecourt will provide extra convenience for customers, particularly those on early and late flights to and from Dublin airport and tourists who need to fill up before returning their rental cars Ray O’ Sullivan, Managing Director of GreatGas, says plans are now in place to roll out more unmanned self-service filling stations around Ireland over the next 12 months and GreatGas is actively looking for forecourt owners to partner with in this regard.

“GreatGas was first to market with the unmanned concept in Ireland and we are delighted that we can now sell petrol as well as diesel at this forecourt. Our philosophy is quite clear – reduced fuelling times, reduced overheads, reduced fuel prices and more happy customers. Safety and security is paramount at all times on the site. We have 24 hour monitoring via CCTV and a security firm, as well as the latest environmental management systems. In addition, customers can’t drive-off without paying for the fuel, as payment is first authorised by the bank on their debit or credit card.”

“We are now well advanced with plans to roll out three more outlets around the country in the coming year and we are also open to approaches from other existing forecourt owners who are interested in partnering with us on this new business model.”

GreatGas 24/7 ‘pay-at-the-pump’ forecourts provide customers with quick and hassle free petrol and diesel, twenty four hours a day all year round. The facility could not be easier to use! You simply drive onto the forecourt, insert your credit, debit or fuel card at the pump and select the amount of petrol or diesel you require. You are then asked to enter your card’s security pin number and this will unlock the pump and you can begin pumping the fuel. After dispensing the requested amount of fuel, you will be provided with a receipt.

GreatGas worked with Tokheim, the international fuel retailing solutions provider, to bring the concept to Ireland. Tokheim has already implemented the service across Europe, with an estimated 20,000 ‘pay@pump’ terminals now in place across the continent.

Paul Farren, General Manager, Tokheim Ireland says the concept will change the way fuel is sold in Ireland.

“The number of service stations in Ireland has reduced by approximately 10% year on year for the last decade. There are now just over 1,200 service stations in the Republic and many are on the verge of closure. But this new ‘pay-at-the-pump’ business model has given them renewed hope for their future of their business. In addition, many who have already closed are also considering re-opening on this basis. This revolutionary concept could save their business.”

€650 rise in annual cost of running a private car The cost of running a family car has risen by an alarming €650 in the last twelve months. The statistic gives an indication of the sort of difficulties being faced by heavy and light commercial vehicle operators on a much larger scale. An annual survey by the Automobile Association (AA) shows that the cost of maintaining an average family car has rocketed by 5.8%, to just under €1,000 a month. Not surprisingly, fuel price are the biggest factor in the cost increases. The calculations are based on running costs, servicing, fuel and insurance for a small family car in the Band C tax category (typical engine size of 1251 - 1500cc). It now costs €11,817 a year - with fuel rising from €2,000 in 2010 to €2,301 this year.

And the Government has again been urged to reduce excise Cost of maintaining a family car has gone up by rates on fuel in a bid to lower petrol prices. The Consumers 5.8% in the last 12 months Association of Ireland (CAI) says the rising cost would hit other areas of spending. According to the AA’s Conor Faughnan: "Of course, the single biggest change is the cost of fuel. In June of 2010, petrol cost 133.3 cent per litre but by June of this year that had risen to 151.7 cent. This is a surge of more than 12pc." “Two thirds of the price of fuel is tax and most of this money is going to the Government. If it wasn't for tax increases, we would now be looking at retail prices of about 132c whereas now we are looking at about 150c." Excise rates in Ireland are 57.6 cent on a litre of petrol and 46.6 cent on diesel.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

William Clay (Bill) Ford Jr., executive chairman of Ford Motor Company and great-grandson of its founder Henry Ford, unveiled a plaque at Ballinascarthy, Co. Cork, commemorating the Ford family’s connection with the village. Mr. Ford, who was on a personal visit to Ireland with his family, met with the local community of Ballinascarthy and had lunch with Hazel Ford Buttimer, a descendant of the Ford family, before visiting the site of the original Ford homestead. Mr. Ford’s great-great grandfather, also William, left Cork on a famine ship in 1847 bound for the US. The company, which his son Henry founded, now employs 166,000 people and sells more than 5 million vehicles a year around the world. Henry Ford himself visited Ireland 99 years ago this week, paving the way for the establishment of Henry Ford & Son Limited in Cork five years later, in 1917. It remains the only Ford business in the world to bear the full name of the company’s founder.

RHA wants council concessions during the Olympics Britain’s Road Haulage Association (RHA) has called for the London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS) to be lifted during next summer’s Olympic Games. It has also called for night-time delivery planning restrictions to be lifted. Following a meeting of its Olympic working group last month, the Association warned that even if such concessions are made, the cost of providing effective goods transport services in London during the Games will probably still soar. According to Jack Semple, RHA director of policy: "Customers should expect significantly higher charges as their transport suppliers gear up for the Olympics. Heavy congestion is expected across the London area due to influx of people into the capital and significant restrictions to the road network aimed at getting Olympians to the Games on time." The RHA says that local authorities' current refusal to address the issue of goods transport and the LLCS threatens the success of the event, the potential for businesses to benefit commercially from it and ultimately jobs. The RHA insists that while the Olympic Delivery Authority and Transport for London are now aware of the risks, both customers and local road authorities need to wake up to the danger.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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The IIR is launching its new Web site: www.iifiir.org The International Institute of Refrigeration’s new portal has been online since July 11, 2011! Visitors from all over the world can now find international refrigeration information via an up-to-date and intuitive interface. The IIR has launched a highquality portal with precise and selected content. To facilitate use, the address remains the same : www.iifiir.org.

New features!

On-line downloads of IIR articles and papers in the Fridoc database; Full Expertise and Laboratory Directories enabling refined searches; A more comprehensive events section including archives of IIR events, a selection of refrigeration events and as in the past, an agenda of IIR events; E-mail alerts for all users of the portal and customizable alerts for members of the IIR. A launching offer!

Until October 2011, the IIR has opened up its Fridoc database to all visitors who register in order to use the portal.

Everyone can consult the database and download quotas of digitized IIR articles and papers free of charge. In order to be able to download articles and papers free of charge following the trial offer during the launching period, users of the portal can become members of the IIR. About the IIR The International Institute of Refrigeration is an independent and intergovernmental organization. It aims at improving and promoting knowledge of refrigeration technologies and applications. Through its mission, it responds to current issues such as food safety, health, energy and environmental protection.

www.viewtraffic.info - Aiming to drive down congestion across the UK A new website, www.viewtraffic.info is working hard to drive down congestion across the UK by offering access to live traffic information. This enables drivers to plan their journey beforehand, make informed decisions on how to avoid congestion and therefore reduce costs and carbon emissions. The system is free to use, and site visits are growing steadily as more cameras are added.

The project has been trialled extensively in London, helped enormously by the BBC who gave unrestricted access to traffic cameras in order that the operational aspects of the system could be assessed and any enhancements made.

Local authorities, highways authorities and owners of ‘destination’ venues such as shopping centres, hotels, sports stadia are now invited to submit their cameras to www.viewtraffic.info so that they can be added to the nationwide camera network. There is no charge associated with adding the cameras.

Tremendous costs are associated with traffic congestion; therefore any attempt to reduce the figure, even by small amounts, can help boost the economy both regionally and nationally. The aim is to have cameras covering the entire UK within the next six months.

Advantages to adding cameras to the network are: • The city, town, venue can be seen live at all times by potential visitors • visitors can plan the best route to avoid congestion • congestion/carbon emissions can be reduced • journey times for visitors are drastically reduced • petrol / fuel will be saved • road / traffic safety will be improved • The council, venue owner will be actively working towards a reduction of carbon emissions.

To submit cameras please visit the site www.viewtraffic.info and add the live camera URL. Once it has been verified as suitable for use and valuable to the driving community, it will be made live on the site, and will greatly help towards driving down congestion in the UK. For more information please take a look at the site www.viewtraffic.info or contact info@viewtraffic.info

eFlow scoops top awards for customer service excellence eFlow, the leading toll solutions provider in Ireland, has scooped top awards for customer service at a prestigious industry event. The operator beat off entrants from over 34 countries to win six awards including best customer service agent, best contact centre supervisor and best IT support professional at the Contact Centre World Awards 2011 in London last week.

The wins followed a multi-stage application and judging process which analysed all components of customer service. eFlow was shortlisted among 1,000 entrants and invited to make a final presentation at the EMEA awards night.

The panel of judges included representatives of Contact Centre World and industry peers.

Simon McBeth, eFlow’s Director of Communications and Customer Relations, described the awards as ‘strong recognition of the value eFlow places on the centrality of the customer.’

‘Contact Centre World is a global organisation that recognises and rewards best practice in customer service. ‘For us, the awards mark an important milestone in our approach to customer service. ‘They reflect our commitment to placing the customer at the centre of our business model. ‘We have worked hard to provide the most effective customer service for Irish motorists and to ensure that the payment of tolls is hassle-free and efficient for eFlow customers.

“I am especially pleased for the entire eFlow team here in Dublin and in Abtran, our business process outsourcing partner in Cork, who continue to work hard to provide a quality service for eFlow customers. ‘These awards attest strongly to their dedication and professionalism,’ said Mr McBeth. eFlow was chosen amongst strong competition from companies such as British Gas and Vertex, the customer service partner for the Marks and Specer Group.

Almost three years since free flow tolling was introduced on the M50, eFlow continues to register over 5,000 customer accounts each month.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Volvo Trucks celebrate 10-years of ’I-Shift’ Volvo celebrate 10 years of ‘1-Shift’

When I-Shift was launched in 2001 it was something that had never been seen before.

Back then, few people believed in a transmission system designed exclusively for automatic gearchanging. Today, however, I-Shift is one of Volvo Trucks’ most highly appreciated products worldwide. This year, I-Shift is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Today no fewer than 80 per cent of Volvo's FH trucks are equipped with the system, making I-Shift virtually a standard feature. At its launch in 2001, however, things looked very different. There were already a number of socalled AMTs (Automated Mechanical Transmissions) on the market, but they were all based on manual gearboxes adapted to permit automatic gear-changing. They were often not entirely reliable and customers complained.

Vehicle manufacturers were forced to face angry customers who had paid a great deal of money for a transmission that caused problems.

Tailored for long-distance operations However, Volvo Trucks believed in the concept of a transmission system designed from the very outset for automatic gear-changing. The first target was to adapt it for long-distance transport. The company succeeded and in 2002, just one year after the system's launch, 14 per cent of all Volvo trucks sold were equipped with I-Shift. This can be compared with its predecessor, Geartronic, Volvo Trucks' first AMT, which was only fitted to one per cent of all trucks sold by the company. Sven-Erik Tibb was the main project manager throughout the development of I-Shift. "We created a totally new unsynchronised basic transmission and an integral control unit with all the electronics, sensors and so on. We then added software that was fully tailored for long-distance traffic. This gave us total control of the engine and gear-changing," he recalls. The new I-Shift was thus a combination of fairly straightforward, uncomplicated mechanics along with electronic control. "There are many benefits with I-Shift. In addition to lower fuel consumption, the system contributes to safer driving, which benefits everyone," says Ricard Fritz, Senior Vice President Strategic Planning and Business Development, Volvo Trucks. "The driver is free to fully concentrate on the traffic and does not become tired from all the gear-changing by the end of the working day. I-Shift is also very easy to drive, and this is appreciated by both experienced drivers and those who are not so experienced," he adds. Other advantages of I-Shift are that it changes gears very quickly compared with other systems on the market, there is no need for a clutch pedal, and there is software optimised for different types of driving.

Second generation In 2005, when the second generation I-Shift made its appearance, the front and rear parts of the transmission had been redesigned to include a new clutch system and a new range-change unit. This provided greater capacity for higher gross combination weights and, consequently, I-Shift could now be fitted to trucks used for some heavier construction and forestry transport duties. As a result, the transmission also found its way into trucks with the 16-litre engine and not just vehicles with 9- and 12-litre power units.

Launch of third generation The third generation was launched in 2009 and was tailored to match Euro-5. It featured a number of hardware improvements, together with new software which made the transmission suitable for additional, even more demanding assignments. It was now possible, for example, to rock heavily laden trucks free if necessary. "From the very start, we had developed programs for different types of operation and customers were able to choose between the various programs.

Each new generation added new applications and now even really heavy-duty construction vehicles like the Volvo FMX can be equipped with I-Shift," says Sven-Erik Tibb, who today is section manager for drivelines and hybrids at Volvo. Åke Zander, technical director at Volvo Powertrain, was also involved from the start. According to him, I-Shift can keep fuel consumption at the same level as the best driver on his best day with a manual transmission. The electronics make sure that the correct gear is always selected to enable the engine to work as economically as possible. "The advantage when it comes to I-Shift is that it doesn't have bad or good days. It provides the same fuel-efficient progress, regardless of who is driving or how the driver feels. What's more, the driver does not need to apply any force to shift gear," says Åke Zander.

So what does the future look like ?

Euro 6 will soon be making its entrance, and transmission systems will need to be adapted to the new engines. "The next generation will be even more fuel-efficient. What's more, we are going to consolidate, refine and stabilise what we have already achieved and further expand the applications for I-Shift," promises Åke Zander.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Limerick first ever Diecast Model and Diorama Show coming soon!

Mand M Models are organising the first display and traders show at the South Court Hotel, Courtfield, Raheen, Limerick on Sunday 11th September 2011 (10am - 6pm).

We have several confirmed traders incl. Model Mad, Co Kerry (full range 1.32 scale Agri Models), Fiona Ward, Nr Ireland (1.32 Britains & Ros Models), Ed’s Sheds, Mitchell town (full range of sheds, e.g. machinery sheds, unloading truck bay warehouses, etc), Perfect 32, Thurles (Dooley Silage/Graham trailers, McConnell Hedgecutters, etc.) Modelmania, Mitchelstown (full range of Plant & Contruction Models), Mike Murphy with the Tekno range of Models, Shea’s Die Cast Models, Galway (full range of model cars) R & B Models, Clonmel (full range of Corgi & UH Trucks), Ian Linton, Nr Ireland (full range of Farm DVD’s & Country Music cd’s).

Of course we will be bringing our range of WSI model trucks.

We have great variety of Displayers showing their Dioramas which should interest all the family as these will include Truck, Farm, Plant & Construction and Cars.

The South Court Hotel venue is an ideal venue with plenty of parking spaces and the hotel has offered to open the room to /traders & Displayers on Saturday 10th Sept at 4pm to facilitate people wishing to set up. The hall will be locked that night and will open again at 7am on Sunday morning. The hotel have kindly offered a special rate of €59 room only, single occupancy bed & breakfast €67, double bed & breakfast/twin bed & breakfast €74. Please contact the South Court Hotel at 353 (0) 61 487487, email ciara.behan@lynchotels.com, www.southcourthotel.com.

Directions to the South Court hotel, if coming from Dublin or Kerry please take exit 30 off the M7 , take exit 3 off the M20 motorway signpost R510 Raheen, at next roundabout take 1st exit signposted R510 Raheen, at 2nd roundabout take 2nd exit signposted R526 Raheen, at 3rd /final roundabout (Raheen roundabout) take 1st exit N18/N19 and take first into Hotel car park.

Proceeds are going to the chosen charity Limerick Animal Welfare who will attend on the day with their stand. This charity is badly in need of funding. They give enormous help to abandoned animals, dogs, cats, horses, etc and have built a sanctuary at Kilfinane, Co Limerick which requires lots of donations to keep it serviced with the great help from it’s volunteers.

The venue is filling up nicely, if you are interested in displaying your Diorama pelase give us ring at 087 327757 (Mark Tierney) and 087 1486293 (Mark Downey), emails markptierey@eircom.net and will be happy to facilitate you.

Please support us on the day. A great day to had by collectors and families .

Follow us on FACEBOOK at Mand Models.

IRHA express concerns over proposed tolls

Additional tolls will only affect the country’s competitiveness according to the IRHA

The Irish Road Haulage Association admits it is concerned over the Government’s proposals to place eight new tolls on the country’s motorways. The National Road Authority are looking at ways of generating extra funding and the tolls are a real possibility, but the IRHA believe that additional tolls will effect Ireland’s trade competiveness. “As a primarily exporting nation, Ireland needs to ensure that its exports are as price-competitive as possible. Introducing a network of additional tolls around Ireland would be a profoundly punitive measure which would, quite simply, increase costs on exports and reduce our ability to compete across a range of sectors.,” said IRHA President Eoin Gavin. The value of Irish exports reached €161 billion last year, the highest annual figure ever recorded. Such moves to discourage and stem the flow of goods are entirely inconsistent with Ireland’s “open for business” ethos which is being advocated from all quarters at this challenging time.” “A task force should be established immediately to review the road tax and tolling systems in Ireland. The current double taxation of road tax and tolling is not balanced and unfairly penalises the road haulage sector. A Euro Vignette style system should be introduced which would have one method of collection and is based on a pay as you go system.”

Gap between costs and haulage rates widening A Freight Transport Association report shows that haulage rates are failing to keep up with the rising costs of running a transport business. In its 2011 Manager’s Guide to Distribution Costs, the FTA calculates that the total rise in vehicle operating costs for hauliers in the twelve months to April 1st was 6.8%. At the same time, the cost of diesel for fleets rose 15.6%. FTA research analyst Bruce Goodhart says: “The high and rising cost of fuel continues to put companies under considerable financial pressure. With haulage rates failing to keep up with increasing vehicle operating costs, profit margins are being squeezed and jobs put at risk, hampering economic recovery.” The FTA guide is produced annually, based on data supplied by member companies. Included in this year’s document are updated bulk diesel prices and operating cost forecasts, as well as haulage rate trends and information on wage trends for drivers, and the latest vehicle operating cost tables. Though the report focuses on UK statistics, the problems highlighted are a mirror image of what’s happening here in Ireland.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Ireland says no to EU road safety deal

The new road safety plan recently agreed by the European parliament that will see motorists who have committed serious traffic offences in Europe tracked down and punished will not include Ireland. Several other EU states have agreed to exchange car registration details to allow the prosecution of motorists who commit a serious driving offence in an EU country participating in the plan. The offences covered are those behind three quarters of road deaths: speeding, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, not wearing a seatbelt, driving through a red light, using a mobile phones and, for motorcyclists, driving without a helmet. When a motorist commits an offence outside their home country, the authorities in the state where the offence took place will be able to seek details of the driver or the vehicle’s owner from their country of residence. The offender will then be sent a letter notifying them of the offence committed and the punishment due. Fines and penalties will be based on the laws of the state in which the offence took place.

Parliament approved the new law in July and will now go before the Council of Ministers where it is expected to be approved. Participating countries have two years to incorporate the measures into their domestic law.

Ireland is one of three countries not covered by the new rules. The dissolution of the Dáil before the general election meant the country was not represented at a final meeting on the proposals in early March. A Department of Transport spokesman said the Minister was considering whether or not to “opt in” to the plan and would bring a proposal to Cabinet. In Ireland, a third of the 854,953 penalty points issued up to last June were to vehicles that did not have a driving licence registered in the State, in most cases the drivers were from the North, or other EU countries. In the majority of cases, these drivers escape punishment. Britain has also decided to opt out of the plan, due to concerns over whether its databases are suitable for the project, and this decision undermines the usefulness of the measure for Irish road safety.

Complex technology will not prevent tachograph fraud EC digital tachograph review must adopt effective but costefficient security enhancements and focus on reducing operational and administrative burdens for road transport, according to the IRU. Further to the new European Commission proposal to amend the current EU Tachograph Regulation (3821/85/EC), the IRU calls for proportionate security enhancements at a reasonable cost to prevent tachograph fraud, as well as better targeted enforcement linked to tougher sanctions for those found guilty of genuine tachograph fraud, stressing that beating tachograph fraud is essential for the future sustainability of road transport services. Indeed, the EC is relying too much on increasingly complex and costly technology, such as compulsory satellite positioning, which does not automatically deliver the required security results, and does not reduce the growing administrative burdens hampering efficient and safer road transport. President of the IRU Commission on Social Affairs, Georges Causse, said; “Without a tamper proof tachograph, we cannot achieve the safety and efficiency objectives which the digital tachograph was meant to deliver.

“Moreover, the lack of effective enforcement distorts competition in the single market for the vast majority of transport operators who work hard to drive the EU economy and abide by the law. The EC should thus concentrate its efforts on targeting the small minority of operators who break the rules and tamper with the tachograph in order to eliminate the risks they pose to road safety."

The IRU thus strongly opposes the compulsory fitting of every device with satellite positioning as it will fail to make the digital tachograph tamper proof. “If the will and capability exists to manipulate the digital tachograph, the same defrauders will not hesitate to block a satellite signal.

The switch from analogue to digital brought about more complex technology, yet did not deliver security. More complex and costly technology will not stop determined rule breakers but rather more targeted enforcement and tougher sanctions for those found guilty of tachograph fraud will,” Georges Causse argued.

Tachograph fraud will not be prevented by complex technology

Container trade increases Container rates have begun to increase as carriers start to bring in price rises. For the first time this year, rates on services from Asia to Europe began to pick up much to the relief of carriers. According to the Shanghai Containerised Freight Index (SCFI), all-in spot rates on services from Asia to Europe reached US$806 per teu in early August from $800 per teu the last week in July. “For the first time in 2011, the SCFI Europe assessment has returned a positive result – this small $6 increase may be the first signal that the rate decline trend has been turned around,” the Clarkson Brokers said.

“Or, it could be nothing more than a blip in the spot rates caused by some posturing by shipping lines over bunker adjustment factor (BAF) and next week’s general rate increases (GRIs).”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Hard work paying off for Gillane Transport

Part of fleet of 12 Volvo trucks

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

P & J Gillane Transport Ltd provides a 24/7 chilled distribution service between Ireland, the UK and Europe. The company’s continued growth and success owes much to the hard graft of its owner and founder Pat Gillane.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Best Wishes To P&J Gillane, From

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Call BARRY now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923 34

Sales, Spare Parts, Service & Repairs of all types of commercial vehicles and trailers, specialising in Volvo Trucks Walderstown, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090 6485550 Fax: 090 6485903 Mobile: 086 2433853 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

F

ormed just seven years ago by Pat Gillane in his hometown of Gort, Co. Galway, P & J Gillane Transport Ltd has emerged as one of the country’s best known and most reputable chilled distribution companies.

Of farming stock, Pat has worked hard to build up his fleet of 12 Volvo trucks and 15 refrigerated trailers. Along with fellow director Elizabeth Forde, who is also company secretary, and his 20-strong staff, he has established P & J Gillane Transport as a force to be reckoned with in the Irish transport industry. In just a few short years, the company has earned a reputation for quality, reliability, value for money and total dedication to customer service.

“We have grown year-on-year since 2003,” Pat proudly states.

“We have 12 Volvo trucks ranging from 420hp to 580hp and 15 refrigerated trailers. We specialise in chilled distribution and provide a 24/7 365-day service between Ireland, the UK and the continent. We have built up a large customer base, which includes one very prominent retailer.

When it comes to getting frozen food to their destination in time, we won’t be beaten.”

From an early age Pat was fascinated by trucks and this fascination has never left him. Indeed, his son John, who recently sat his Leaving Cert and who is the ‘J’ in P & J Gillane, has inherited Pat’s passion for trucks.

“John reminds me a lot of myself in that he has been interested in trucks since he was a small child. I was about the same age when I used to stand on my toes, looking over the wall of our family farm on the main Galway-Ennis Road in Gort trying to catch a glimpse of the lorries that drove by. My dream was always to drive them, so you could say I’m living the dream right now!”

Pat began working life as a silage contractor. After obtaining his heavy goods licence in 1985, he drove trucks for a number of companies, including Donnelly Coal Distributors in Galway, Irish Linen Services and Spiddal Transport. Such is his appetite for work that he has been able to keep the family farm going, even after setting up his own company.

comprises a large yard and warehouse, is located at Glenbrack, Gort which on the N18 between the thriving urban centres of Galway and Ennis. And since the M6 motorway was opened a few years ago, Dublin Port is no more than two hours away.

All of P & J Gillane’s drivers are highly skilled, competent and fully aware of the importance of customer service. The company also employs a full-time mechanic to ensure that the fleet is kept running smoothly. Pat has invested heavily in a modern high specification fleet and recently took delivery of a new Volvo FH16. His eight twin evaporated and seven The fleet is kept in immaculate condition single evaporated trailers are all new or nearly new.

Pat buys his trucks from “I’ve never been afraid of work. I’d Murphy Commercials in Galway, his work 100 hours a week if I had to. I don’t think the company would be the success it is if I didn’t Best Of Luck To Pat Gillane In The Future From put in the work.

Customers know that I’m always there for them and that has stood to the company’s growing Kinvara, Co. Galway reputation,” he says.

P & J Gillane Transport Ltd is ideally Kerosene • Petrol • Autodiesel located to serve the Commercial & Agri Diesel needs of customers throughout Ireland.

The company’s Tel: 091 637317 - Anytime 091 561677 headquarters, which Fax: 091 638126 • Mobile: 087 2604264

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There are 15 refrigerated trailers in the fleet

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Volvo is the marque of choice for P&J Gillane Transport

trailers from Keenan International in Dundalk, while Reynolds Commercials in Athlone service his trailers.

Pat always insists on Volvo because of their reliability.

“I’ve driven a lot of different trucks over the years and I can say without any hesitation that Volvo is the best out there. I’ve always found them the most reliable – they’ve never let me down. Like any truck, they will break down occasionally, but they are always repairable. The same cannot be said about other makes unfortunately.

Volvo put very good stuff into their trucks when they’re making them and I’d swear by them.”

Similar to all transport companies, P & J Gillane hasn’t been immune from the recession with Pat admitting that rising fuel costs have put a considerable strain on his family-run business.

“Fuel costs are breaking companies and it’s certainly something I take no joy from seeing,” he says.

“Every haulier has to row in together on this because the cost of diesel at the moment is unsustainable. I’m a firm believer in peaceful protests, but it will probably take something as radical as blocking the ports for the Government to take any notice of our plight.

36

“The rising fuel costs has led to a huge amount of undercutting in the industry. It’s a dog eat dog world out there. I’m confident that P & J Gillane will survive the recession because everything I own I’ve had to work hard for it. I never got anything easy so these turbulent times won’t knock me.”

Recession or no recession, Pat and his team are committed to maintaining the highest possible standards. He has no intention of resting on his laurels and has set himself a target of owning 21 trucks by the time his son John turns 21.

“It gives something to aim for.

When I started out, I thought I’d only end up owning two or three trucks.

Owning 12 would have been beyond my wildest dreams. The company has come a long way in seven

years and there is no reason why it can’t double in size in the next seven.

If I have 21 trucks in three of four years’ time, I might start thinking about taking things a bit easier!” he jokingly concludes.

COMPANY D ETAILS P&J Gillane Tr ansport Galway Road, Gort, Ireland Tel: 091-757273 086-1744696

Reliability is the reason for the all Volvo fleet

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Happy Anniversary Iveco gears up for true love and then there is a love of trucks, international New Daily launch There’s and when you put the two together then you have the perfect match. Well, that’s what happened when in September 2011

Adrian Mitchell and Angela Barry got married last year as you can see by the pictures from their big day

Iveco is preparing to launch the latest evolution of its proven light commercial vehicle range - already a popular choice with professional transport operators around the world.

The Iveco Daily owes its success to sales in excess of two million units, with the new generation set to be launched during September 2011. Since the latest evolution of Daily and ECODAILY was unveiled in 2009 over 100,000 units have been purchased in just two years.

From its initial launch in 1978, Daily has always been a true commercial vehicle and is renowned for its truck derived strength (being built truck-tough), with its sturdy chassis frame offering bodybuilders maximum flexibility. Customers appreciate the Daily's proven ability to operate reliably, economically and with maximum respect for the environment - whether in the city centre or on the open road. The complete range also includes models designed and built specifically to tackle arduous off-road applications, ensuring Iveco's light commercial vehicle range has remained a top choice for discerning fleets.

In its latest form, New Daily retains its core qualities of strength, reliability, efficiency and versatility, whilst adding new high efficiency engines which offer more power, combined with refinements both economically and ecologically.

Taking pride of place in the range will be FPT Industrial's new 3.0 litre Euro 5 diesel engine, which will introduce a class leading power output of 205 hp and a massive 470 Nm of torque. Key to providing high power and torque with low emissions and fuel consumption is the adoption of twin turbochargers - one compact turbo to provide rapid throttle response from a very low engine speed and a larger unit to deliver the engine's maximum performance.

For New Daily models falling into the heavy duty category and all natural gas versions, the EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle) certification remains, ensuring these models meet the most stringent European exhaust emission standard available.

For lighter models, the FPT Industrial 2.3 litre engine benefits from an increase in engine torque to 320 Nm and a new Multijet II multi-event fuel injection system that optimises the combustion process, bringing noteworthy benefits in terms of lower engine noise, fuel consumption and tail-pipe emissions.

All diesel engines will continue to use an enhanced EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system with improved control to ensure accurate recirculated gas distribution among the engine cylinders and a DPF (diesel particulate filter) as standard.

The exhaust system architecture and the EGR logic have been optimised with particular attention to urban duty cycles.

DHL moves goalposts for UEFA Europa League Final winners, FC Porto DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, were at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin yesterday to collect a set of goalposts for FC Porto. The club, winners of this year’s UEFA Europa League Final at the Aviva Stadium, decided to commemorate the win in a unique way. They have purchased the goalposts from the end of the ground in which their striker, Falcao, scored his 44th minute winning goal in their victory over fellow Portuguese side Braga. The goalposts will feature in a new museum currently being developed by Porto.

DHL Global Forwarding will move the goalposts from Dublin, Ireland to Portugal on a direct truck over the coming weekend.“We were delighted to be selected by FC Porto to transport the goalposts which are clearly very symbolic for the team and their fans. Our Road Freight team is highly experienced in handling special shipments and the goalposts are in good hands”, commented Maurice Meade, Managing Director of DHL Global Forwarding in Ireland.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

37

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tel: 053-9133721 fax: 053-9133833 email: info@eureka.ie web: www.eureka.ie All prices and special offers are subject to Terms and Conditions.

A man’s world (or is it?)

When one thinks of the haulage industry, the instant image is of a grisly male trucker driving the length and breadth of the country and even further afield, such is the dominance of the male species in this sector.

A

recent survey revealed that

As we all know the haulage industry

with lorries. It may sound strange

only 15% of the haulage

is one of the toughest sectors to be

coming from a girl, but it's true,” said

industry comprised of

successful as there are more

Anna.

women, generally looking after the

overheads in this line of work than any

administration side of the business,

other. Rising fuel costs, low rates and

business and I have to admit it was

while only 2% were drivers.

insurance have left many hauliers

tough at the start. I did get a lot of

struggling to survive.

funny looks when looking for work, but

The percentage of women owners could be even lower as few have

“I took a notion to start up my own

Anna's decision to become involved

I kept working away and eventually I

decided to enter this male dominated

in the industry was a courageous one

managed to get the business off the

industry, although Irish Trucker caught

to say the least as not only was she in

ground and thankfully we haven't

up with one that has and she not only

a minority, being a female, but she

looked back since. I'm very grateful to

owns her own haulage company, but

was only 22 years of age when she

the customers that gave me the

she is also very successful.

first established the business. So the

chance when I first started. It wasn't

first question to ask the Fermanagh

easy, but I kept pushing on and I'm

native was, why?

pleased with the direction that the

Anna Richmond has turned many heads within the haulage industry over the last ten years as A1 Transport Ltd

“I always had an interest in lorries.

has developed a secure place in the

My Dad has been involved in them all

market during the intervening years.

his life and I just loved being involved

Continued Best Wishes To A1 Transport From

company is headed.”

Anna started off with just three trucks on the road and decided to

K R Truck Rental Best Wishes To A1 Transport

Wabco, Knorr Bremse & Haldex ABS/EBS Service Agents

Full Rolling Road Facilities Fleet Maintenance O’Hare Truck & Trailer Services Ltd. 41 Omeath Road, Newry, Co. Down BT35 8QN Tel: 028 302 61272 ROI: 048 302 61272

www.oharetrucks.com

40

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086 222 8426 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

concentrate on general haulage,

overheads down is one of the key

Anna has learned that customer

serving the whole of Ireland and the

satisfaction is the number one target

United Kingdom.

on a daily basis and she admits that

In October 2009, the Derrylin based company went limited and these days Anna has 12 trucks on the road as

down. That is the main reason why I

working on.

don't buy brand new trucks. Hauliers

“We work closely in partnership with our customers, tailored with a

look after an extensive fleet of trucks

personalised approach that meets

and trailers.

individual needs, which is essential to

and generally go for Scania and DAF,

good customer base, which helps a

today's environment.”

at the present time and the main aim

McIlvaney's and A&M Commercials.

have a base in Preston, Lancashire

We would keep the fleet well

and Anna believes that their locations

maintained in order to avoid downtime

are key to their success.

“We provide a daily cross channel

“Our head office is located in Derrylin which is an ideal location from which to direct our logistical operations. Not

service to and from Ireland and

only is it close to the borders between

England, offering a 24 and 48 hour

Northern Ireland and Republic of

delivery service. With a dedicated

Ireland, but is halfway between the

team on hand, who are flexible and

major cities of Belfast and Dublin. This

able to adapt to customers

means that we are able to utilise all

specification.

the major ports and shipping

“The fleet is all equipped with GPS/Navman tracking as well as a fleet management system, so we can

great deal.”

Anna has no major plans to expand

Not only has the company its headquarters in Derrylin, but they also

made efficiently and on time.

are being hit from all angles and it is certainly tough times, but we have a

which are generally bought from

and ensure that deliveries are always

“It is essential to keep the costs

this is something that they are always

well as 30 curtainsiders leaving her to

“I would buy the trucks second hand

areas to help survive in this industry.

is to concentrate on providing an efficient service to their loyal customers.

“We will just continue to provide the level of service that we have been providing our customers and we will look at ways of trying to improve on that. I'm pleased enough with the amount of work that I have on at the moment and if we can maintain that then we should have no problems.

“I'm fortunate to have a reliable,

companies that links Britain and

experienced workforce both here and

Ireland.”

in Preston and together, they have played a huge part in the success of

Anna has picked up a lot of

track any vehicle and inform the

experience over the past ten years

the business and I looking forward to

customer of their exact location.”

and stresses that keeping the

continue working with them.”

Wishing Continued Success To A1 Transport From

When you stop... we start!

Greagholia, Corranny, Roslea, Co. Fermanagh

Tel: 028 6775 1885 Mobile: 087 6592885 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To A1 Transport From

MAJOR TRUCK SALES LTD DEALERS IN ALL TYPES OF NEW & USED COMMERCIAL VEHICLES Tame Street, Stalybridge, Cheshire SK15 1ST Tel: 0161 343 4700 Fax: 0161 339 9094 Mobile: 07831 217771 Email: majortrucksales@btconnect.com 41