Januaryfebruary2014trucker

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IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Vol. 17 No. 1

EURO 2.95 stg.£2.50

HOLDEN PLANT RENTALS McLOUGHLIN COACHWORKS

NATIONAL VEHICLE DISTRIBUTION

A1 TRANSPORT

IAN HAYES HAULAGE

McADOO TRANSPORT

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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 Š Copyright Lynn Group Media 2014.

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.

Contents

www.irishtrucker.com

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Industry News A look at the most recent trucking & haulage industry news

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Holden Plant Rentals Recorded a number of prestigious firsts in 2013

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Cahill Truck Bodies Design and manufacture a diverse range of commercial vehicle bodies

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McLoughlin Coachworks Efficient service to a large customer base

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Carryduff Tyre Centre Ltd. Offering a wide selection of tyres for all vehicles

46

Shannon Foynes Port Company Recently launched a 30 year masterplan

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Glenard Plant Providing road sweeping and cleaning solutions

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Barrack Hill Quarries Important role in the supply of high-quality aggregates and stone

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Jupiter Transport (t/a Kolbe Feeds) Operators of one of the most impressive fleets nationwide

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Donoghues of Galway Supplying travel requirements to a large customer base since 1966 Ian Hayes Haulage Top quality service for more than 30 years

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National Vehicle Distribution We speak with award-winning manager Tim Neville

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Airporter Ireland’s fastest growing private bus operation

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Coolmoyne Couriers Excellent level of courier and transport services

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A1 Transport Anna Richmond, owner, on her successful haulage company

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Commercial Spare Parts Thriving in this current economic climate

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McAdoo Transport Emphasis on loyalty and continuity for the last 39 years

101 Industry News 102 Thompson Fuels One of the leading independent fuel providers in Northern Ireland 106 Boland Motors Dedicated to providing a range of top quality services 109 Classifieds

Irish Trucker is published by k, Kells, Co. Meath DG Press, Kells Business Par Telephone: (046) 9241923 Fax: (046) 9241926 ynngroupmedia.com t@l tac e mail: con

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Cargo Defender system helps fight alcohol theft

A new Donegal based business Cargo Defenders Ltd provides the logistics industry a unique security solution called ‘Cargo Defender’ this is an innovative alarm based security system for curtain side and box trailers which monitors and protects the cargo from all possible access points.

Aidan Robb M.D. at Cargo Defenders said “we have been developing and successfully trialling our security system for over two years and are delighted with the feedback we have received to date. Cargo crime is an on-going issue in the industry and our new system is an invaluable Eamonn McCaghey of East Coast Suppliers tool in preventing cargo theft.”

Ltd with Aidan Robb, Cargo Defenders.

How the Cargo Defender security system works The Cargo Defender system monitors and protects curtain sided trailers at all access points thus preventing cargo thieves and illegal immigrants from gaining access to your trailer. The system turns a standard curtainsider into a high security trailer/truck. Its main feature is the innovative smart trailer curtain tamper sensors which are fitted to the inner side of the trailer curtain. Should a thief attempt to gain access to the cargo by cutting the curtain - the inbuilt sensors will immediately detect the slash and trigger the security response system.

Other system features include `curtain open sensors’ which detect attempts to open the trailer curtain. Together with `back door` and `tail-lift open sensors` each of which have been designed to detect and alarm any unauthorised attempt to gain access to the trailer. Once triggered the system sets off a high decibel alarm to deter the intruder. It also sends an alert to a list of pre-programmed contacts. Finally the system sends an immediate notification to the client via their online security platform – showing exactly where and when the incident occurred. This information is logged and saved on the system platform and can be accessed from any computer or smart phone with internet access; allowing fleet owners to monitor the location and security of their entire fleet in real time.

The Cargo Defender security system is ideal for fleet operators who transport any form of cargo in curtain side or box trailers that may be attractive to thieves. The loss of cargo can cause a lot of hassle and paper work along with damaging the reputation of the company. The cost of replacing the stolen cargo can cost thousands and the sale of the stolen goods in the black market can do a lot of damage to a company’s brand and even put lives at risk for example the sale of stolen pharmaceuticals which were not stored or handled correctly .

The Cargo Defender cloud based platform is a very useful tool for companies that need to record the trailers activities for auditing purposes. The platform records and logs all the trailer/trucks activity including where, when and how long a trailer door our curtain was open, users can set alerts which will alert them if a trailer door was opened outside of set locations. The platform also gives fleet managers the ability to remotely arm and disarm the security system from there laptop or smart phone.

Alcohol theft - a typical problem The product was mainly designed for the UK and European market as cargo crime is a multi billion euro problem across many EU countries. Ireland is not immune to cargo crime. Cargo Defenders recently provided the system to East Coast Suppliers Ltd, a County Louth based company, who fitted out their entire fleet with the new Cargo Defender system.

East Coast Suppliers Ltd operate a modern fleet of curtainsiders and delivers full alcohol requirements to off licences, pubs, restaurants and hotels throughout Leinster and the surrounding east coast area. An organised gang was targeting the fleet and stealing boxes of spirits. Eamonn McCaghey the owner of East Coast Suppliers Ltd said “these criminals are highly organised and often target spirits as they are the most lucrative in the black market”. The company was being hit a number of times prior to the installation of Cargo Defender, and while further attempts were made shortly after the installation the thieves did not succeed due to triggering the alarm. The criminals have since stopped targeting East Coast lorries as they have been fitted with Cargo Defender badges highlighting they are being monitored.

Cargo Defenders also offer a cost effective GPS Vehicle Tracking and a range of fuel security products. For further information call Aidan Robb on 0879669076. A video demonstration of the system can be seen on their website www.cargodefenders.ie

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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THE UK'S BIGGEST COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW The number one road transport and logistics event in Britain, catering for every operator’s business needs, the CV Show has become the leading meeting place for suppliers and operators alike - a true one stop shop for the industry.

Located at the NEC, at the heart of the motorway network, the Show is open from 8.30 to 5.30 April 29 - May 1.

www.cvshow.com

For exhibitor details please call +44 (0) 1634 261 262 or email sales@cvshow.com

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Celtic Link Ferries are supporting the transportation of gear and supplies for Chernobyl Ireland

Celtic Link Ferries Support Chernobyl Ireland

Celtic Link Ferries are delighted to support Chernobyl Ireland Humanitarian Aid as they continue to help the children of Grozovo School in Minsk, Belarus.

Celtic Link Ferries would like to take the opportunity to wish Chernobyl Ireland continued success in tireless mission to provide food and water, comfortable living, and other supplies to children who really need it.

Celtic Link Ferries have more direct crossings between Ireland and France than any other company. Celtic Link Ferries make three return crossings every week between Rosslare and Cherbourg. Celtic Link Ferries depart Rosslare every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday while departing Cherbourg every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Book your freight loads today between Ireland and France by phoning +353 (53) 9178790 or phone our Freight Manager, Ben Radford on + 353 (86) 6045947

New improved schedule for Celtic Link Ferries

Celtic Link Ferries have launched its new improved sailing schedule between Rosslare and Cherbourg, France.

The Wexford based ferry company have moved their schedule to give its passengers more day-light driving hours. “The most common request or feedback that we get from our customers would be Celtic Link Ferries arriving earlier in either France or Ireland,” said a company spokesperson. “We have now amended our schedule taking into account these requests.”

Celtic Link Ferries will now depart Cherbourg on a Friday night at 21:00 instead of 22:00 and now arriving at 12:00 on Saturday. Celtic Link Ferries will depart Rosslare on Saturday at 16:00 instead of 18:00 arriving in Cherbourg at 10:00 and departing Cherbourg at 16:00 on a Sunday evening at 19:00. Celtic Link Ferries will arrive back in Rosslare Europort at 09:00.

Book your trip between Rosslare and Cherbourg with Celtic Link Ferries at www.celticlinkferries.com or phone 053 9162688.

Truck Run in Aid of Holy Family School, Cootehill, Co. Cavan

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A Truck Run is being ran in aid of the Holy Family School, Cootehill. The run will take place on Monday 17th March. It will leave from the sales yard in Cootehill at 11.45am, heading towards Shercock, Kingscourt, Carrickmacross, Castleblaney, Ballybay, Rockcorry and return to Cootehill to fall in with the St Patrick's Day Parade.

Entry fee is €20.00 per truck.

Anyone wishing to enter please contact Eamon on 087 7911437 or Martin on 086 3027193.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

CUT YOUR RUNNING COSTS DOWN TO SIZE

ALL-NEW FORD TRANSIT CONNECT Number 1 for fuel efficiency Number 1 for load space dimensions Number 1 for International Van of the Year 2014 Number 1 for flexibility with front seating for 3

Call into your Ford Dealer now to avail of our Fantastic Launch Offers

Transit Connect – International Van of The Year 2014.

ford.ie

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Intelligent Telematics launches next-generation 3/4G Commercial Vehicle Camera

Intelligent Telematics has launched the most sophisticated commercial vehicle camera solution currently available to help fleet operators to reduce costs, enhance safety and protect against fraudulent insurance claims. The IT 1000 combines video, telematics and 3/4G technologies to capture and transmit footage of accidents and other harsh driving events in realtime, with unrivalled accuracy and camera technology that is sixteen times more powerful than existing solutions in the marketplace.

Unlike other vehicle cameras that only record to an in-device SD card, the IT 1000 transmits footage of accidents and near misses via a secure 3/4G private network to a web-based interface with real-time email and SMS alerts, so a triggered event can be viewed within minutes of it occurring. This enables operators to respond The IT 1000 Camera quickly to issues and report claims, while insurers receive first notification of loss to minimise any financial impact. Meanwhile, the camera captures GPS data at 10 times per second, compared to an industry standard of just once per second, to calculate the most accurate impact speed, while the internal 3-Axis G Force sensor including auto calibration enables visibility of driving styles and behaviour.

The next-generation IT 1000 device has been developed in partnership with leading camera specialist Trajet and manufactured at a production facility in Braunschweig, Germany.

Trajet is one of the few companies manufacturing vehicle cameras to possess the industry recognised ISO 9001:2008 certification, ensuring high levels of reliability and resilience. Furthermore, the camera technology is housed in self-contained case making it tamper-proof and resistant to extreme temperatures to minimise failure rates.

Nick Plowman, Chief Technical Officer of Intelligent Telematics commented: “Our latest camera will not only reduce the severity and frequency of vehicle fleet insurance claims by enabling operators to respond quickly and effectively to accidents, but also help modify driving styles and minimise potential risk. The IT 1000 vehicle camera solution provides a 24-hour monitoring solution that will become an important part of a fleet operators insurance and duty of care strategies.”

Death of popular Galway Truck Centre owner

The haulage community is mourning the death of Tommie Keeler, who was managing director of Galway Truck Centre.

The late Tommie set up the business in 1979 along Tommie Keeler with his partner John O’Shaughnessy, who is now retired, having handed over the reins to his son Alan a number of years ago. Based on the Headford Road, Galway Truck Centre is a main dealership for DAF Trucks and Mitsubishi Fuso Trucks. The garage has been an Approved Test Centre since 1982.

Tommie was well-known to truck owners in Galway and beyond, and enjoyed a great rapport with his customers. It goes without saying that the popular garage owner will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Tommie is survived by his partner Trish, children Clodagh, Orla and Nicki and extended family. He was laid to rest on Saturday 11th January.

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Music to TNT’s ears

TNT Express, which has depots in Ireland has recently secured an 18-month contract to provide express global delivery for guitar maker Gibson. All Gibson brand products deliveries will be managed by TNT that will see the logistics firm transports the good to the 300 authorised dealers in the EMEA region.

"Reliability is the number one reason we’ve chosen TNT Express to manage our express transport activities in EMEA," said EMEA distribution centre manager, Gibson Europe, Alex Smits. "The web portal TNT offers us provides excellent visibility of return shipments to our distribution centre in the Netherlands, so I am confident this will contribute to our promise to customers: 'We get you back playing.'"

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Enforcement pleases IRHA

The decision by the Road Safety Authority and Gardaí to enforce European legislation preventing illegal haulage operations by non-national operators not based in Ireland has been welcomed the Irish Road Haulage Association. Cabotage rules have been consistently breached by out of state operators, but now the Gardai and the RSA have vowed to clamp down on these operations, especially at Dublin Port. Fears were growing that a lot of Irish hauliers couldn’t compete with the cheaper rates on offer by these firms, but the change in attitude by the governing bodies has been greeted with delight from various sources including the IRHA. “The Association is delighted that the enforcement agencies involved have been so pro-active in utilising the European legislation which they have at their disposal and prevented further illegal activity from continuing,” said IRHA president Eoin Gavin. “As a result they have saved, and ultimately secured, countless jobs within the sector and they therefore must be commended for their actions. We would urge all parties to continue this pro-active effort at ground level and ultimately allow the licensed transport industry in Ireland to continue with its critical contribution to our export led economic recovery”.

Ford has topped the van charts for 24 of last 25 years

According to vehicle sales figures just issued by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), Ford has again topped the commercial vehicle sales charts, a feat the company has achieved for 24 of the last 25 years. Commercial vehicle sales figures for 2013 show that Ford sold 2,541 units, ahead of VW (2,079 units) and Renault (1,286 units).

A key part of Ford’s van sales success is the iconic Transit which has been a top seller in Ireland since it first arrived in 1965. In 2013, Transit was again the top-selling model in Ireland with 1,402 units sold, comfortably ahead of the second placed VW Caddy (1,328).

The Ford Transit

AA predicts bright year

New vehicle sales are set to rise in 2014, according to a survey carried out by the AA. Research carried out by the motoring body predicts a substantial increase, with 3% of respondents confirming they would be buying a new vehicle this year. "We're just not buying new cars the way we used to, before the recession began," said director of consumer affairs with the AA, Conor Faughnan. "Typically, we were getting over 180,000 cars sold in a year. That figure collapsed by over 50%. "The practical effect of that is that as each year goes by, the average age of Irish cars is getting older and older. And we're actually seeing that first hand in the AA, the sort of breakdown that we're attending to are associated with wear and tear on older vehicles."

Energy plant given green light in North

An energy plant that will convert waste product into power has been given the green light by the North’s DoE. The £85 million plant will be developed at Bombardier Aerospace in east Belfast and it will create 130 jobs during the construction phase of the development. Granting planning permission, Environment Minister Mark Durkan said: "This is good news. It will help it reduce electricity costs and safeguard employment. This facility will draw value from waste which cannot be recycled, preventing it going to landfill and will instead use it to generate energy. This proposal is a win for the environment and a win for the economy."

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Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Ford Ireland, said: “Irish van drivers and fleet operators love our vans and it is heartening to see that we have secured the top spot again in the 2013 sales chart.”

“Unlike the car market where there was a drop in sales, the commercial vehicle market managed to achieve modest growth of just 4.6 percent in 2013. It has long been accepted that this market is a good indicator of the general state of the economy, so on that basis, these figures tally with some commentators who have said the economy is due to improve during 2014. It is thanks to our great value tailored packages that Ford again took the lion’s share of sales in the van market in 2013, outpacing the market growth to achieve an increase of 11.5 percent on our 2012 sales. In fact, there has never been a better time to buy a Ford commercial with a low rate 3.9 percent APR available across the van range and unlike some of our competitors, we offer a five year payback period which helps to keep monthly repayments more manageable for cash strapped operators”.

“In addition, with Transit, servicing for the first four years and the first two years of road tax are all provided free of charge*. Transit also comes with a four year 150,000km warranty and the low rate finance of 3.9 percent. In the current environment, operators are, more than ever, making buying choices based on Whole Life Cost of the vehicle and with our two main models: Transit Custom and the new Transit Connect (which arrives here this month), we have best-in-class fuel economy”, concluded Murphy.

Ford’s line up of commercial vehicles will be expanded during 2014, with the imminent arrival of the new Transit Connect (International Van of the Year for 2014); the new Transit 2 tonne arriving in April; and the compact new Ford Transit Courier van which arrives in May. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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INDUSTRIAL CLEANING EQUIPMENT

Cleaning Equipment Ireland Ltd Unit 1, Cookstown Industrial Est, Dublin 24 Email: sales@cleaningequipmentireland.com

Tel : 01 4140067

Paul Kane

Vantruck & Bus Parts IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Cold Water Power Wash

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For Further Information, Please Contact

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028 8774 7258

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auliers operating in and out of the Republic of Ireland are no longer able to operate trucks, including HGVs, over the 4.65m limit with the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport having imposed the height restrictions to protect expensive physical infrastructure (like railway bridges) as well as to promote road safety and enhance quality of life for residents.

In the past, vehicles over 4.65m had to be diverted through urban areas as they were not able to access Dublin Port Tunnel, Limerick Tunnel or the Jack Lynch Tunnel in Cork.

A spokesperson for the Department explained: “The reasons behind the limit are mainly concerned with rail safety and the protection of expensive physical infrastructure (such as bridge strikes by over-height vehicles), road safety, quality of life considerations for residents in urban areas.

“This last point is because vehicles higher than 4.65 metres cannot use the Jack Lynch, Dublin Port or Limerick Tunnels and therefore must be diverted through urban areas.”

The proposals were first revealed in January, 2007 and the height limit was set in November, 2008 but five years of grace were subsequently allowed to enable operators who had recently purchased vehicles in excess of 4.65m time to refresh their fleets.

The new regulation has caused quite a few headaches for transport operators throughout the country but SDC Trailers can help ease the pain.

Any hauliers needing to update and refurbish their fleet of trailers need look no further than the Toomebridge-based company.

“We're offering free estimates and collection and delivery when available,” explained General Manager Eugene

BOX VANS

McCrystal. “From Box Vans to Curtain Painting & blasting siders, we offer the full package, from New tops GRP / Alloy service and repair to vehicle graphics Re placement doors and livery. Our guys cover all the Roof repairs disciplines.”

Eugene revealed that the company's GRP panel repairs services have been very much in Interior repairs demand ever since the legislation came Si gnwriting & graphics into effect.

That won't come as any surprise because SDC has grown into one of the CURTAINSIDERS leading trailer manufacturers in Europe Painting / blasting since its establishment in Toombridge in Ne w superstructures 1978 and now manufacture the widest selection of trailers available, designed Replacement curtains to meet the needs of their customers.

Roof repairs & replace ments Their state-of-the-art production plants Front air system repair at Toomebridge are amongst the most & replacement modern trailer manufacturing facilities in Europe and fully accredited to ISO 9001.

Door repairs & replace ment Their aim is to “ensure your trailer Si gn wr itin g & gr ap hic investment delivers a rapid return and s contributes to the profitability of your business for many years into the TIPPERS future”.

Top cover roll over shee t When you invest in an SDC trailer, re placement you are not only investing in the best Body capacity increas technology, quality and flexibility, you’re e investing in the knowledge, expertise Body repairs - Alloy / St eel and understanding that comes from Rear door modification s years of experience in the haulage Load cells / weighers industry.

Painting / blasting SDC's state of the art, purpose built trailer refurbishment centre's can Overlays transform your trailer to meet the new Body & chassis re-alig height regulations while trailer nment Tip per ram replacement refurbishment is also an extremely attractive option, when faced with Sign-writing & graphic s new contract opportunities requiring new bodywork, liveries and chassis SKELETAL, PLATFO modifications.

RMS, CH ASSIS From a minor alteration to a complete ground up rebuild, the work Chassis re-alignment carried out on your trailer will be to Suspension changes the highest standard and Painting / blasting guaranteed to meet ISO9001 quality standards.

Size matters at SDC As of Friday, November 1 last, the new 4.65m truck height restriction for the Republic of Ireland came into effect.

CONTACT DETAILS

SDC Trailers SDC Toomebridge, 116 Deerpark Rd, Toomebridge, Co. Antrim, BT41 3SS Tel 0044 (0)28 7965 0765 Fax 0044 (0)28 7965 0042 Email info@sdctrailers.com

116 D

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REPAIR CENTRE & WORKSHOP

Box Vans Painting & blasting New tops GRP / Alloy Replacement doors Roof repairs GRP panel repairs Interior repairs Signwriting & graphics

Curtainsiders Painting / blasting New superstructures Replacement curtains Roof repairs & replacements Front air system repair & replacement Door repairs & replacement Signwriting & graphics Suspension changes Painting / blasting

Tippers Top cover roll over sheet replacement Body capacity increase Body repairs - Alloy / Steel Rear door modifications Load cells / weighers Painting / blasting Overlays Body & chassis re-alignment Tipper ram replacement Sign-writing & graphics

Skeletal, Platforms, Chassis Chassis re-alignment Suspension changes Painting / blasting

REFURBISHMENT

ACCIDENT DAMAGE SERVICE

BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE

UTILISATION & MODIFICATION

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT ON FLEET/RENTAL REFURB PROGRAMMES

Tel 0044 (0)28 796 50765

116 Deerpark Rd, Toomebridge, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT41 3SS |

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Ferry service to hold talks with Governments

Representatives of the Foyle Ferry service are to meet delegates from the Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland governments to discuss the future of the shipping firm. The service, which has been running for the past 12 years between Magilligan in Co Derry and Greencastle in Co Donegal and the main topic is the funding that both governments are willing to give the project. SDLP member John Dallat said: “We need to find a short-term solution to ensure the service resumes in the spring. But it is also imperative that ministers in Dail Eireann and the Northern Ireland Assembly recognise the need to jointly fund the future operation of the service to ensure its long-term viability.

"The amount of money needed is miniscule compared to the amount of cash spent on the Strangford Ferry and given the will and commitment it should be possible to convince the directors of the Foyle Ferry Service to continue ferrying cars and passengers across the Foyle for the foreseeable future."

Goodyear bosses held by employees

Workers at the Goodyear tyre factory in France recently held two of their bosses overnight in a dispute over the closing down of the premises.

Goodyear have been trying to sell the Amiens plant in Northern France for the past five years, but have been unsuccessful in their efforts to do so. The plant’s managing director and human resources manager were held against their will by a number of employees as the dispute escalated. In the past there has been violent protests at the plant and Continental are sure to want to bring to an end the latest fiasco.

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1,000 extra jobs in motor industry as dealers get ready for busy January sales

The final new vehicle statistics for 2013 issued by SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) show that the sale of new cars was down 104 units (-33%) in December compared to 2012 (down from 316 to 212).

For the full year 2013, new car sales were down 7% (5,271) on 2012 (74,303 V 79,574).

New Light Commercial sales (vans) were up 3% on 2012 (11,076 V 10,804) and Heavy Commercial Vehicle sales (trucks) were up 27% (1,717 V 1,354) on 2012.

Alan Nolan, SIMI's Director General says: "While the new car market is down on last year, it did stage a strong recovery in the 132 registration period (July-Dec) after a very poor first six months.

The Commercial Vehicle sales figures are also an indication of recovery in the sector and the latest jobs figures from the CSO show 1,000 more people working in the Motor Industry now compared to the middle of 2013.* As we look forward to this year, many in the Industry are very positive for the new car market. Dealers around the country have been reporting an increase in showroom traffic and stronger sales activity for the new 141 registration period in January compared to last year.

Maxol Lubricants secures contract with Translink Group

Leading lubricants company, Maxol Lubricants is delighted to announce it has been awarded the tender to be sole supplier of Anti-Freeze and Selective Catalyst Reduction Additives to Ulsterbus, part of the Translink Group.

This new contract will see Maxol Lubricants, part of The Maxol Group, supply Ulsterbus for three years. Ulsterbus operates over 300 services to towns and villages across Northern Ireland as well as services to and from Dublin.

Commenting on the recent tender win, Owen O’Neill, General Manager, Maxol Lubricants said: “As a local business we’re delighted to have secured the contract with Ulsterbus to exclusively supply all of its Anti-Freeze and Selective Catalyst Reduction Additives. This represents a huge win for Maxol Lubricants and reaffirms our position as the leading supplier of quality lubricants to both the private and public sectors in the province.

Translink is Northern Ireland’s largest public transport provider and we are delighted to have secured this contract for Maxol Lubricants as we move into Owen O’Neill, General 2014.”

Manager of Maxol Lubricants Neil Bowers, Procurement Project Advisor, Translink commented: “We look forward to working with Maxol Lubricants. They are a wellestablished Irish company with a proven track record and we wish them every success during the lifetime of this contract.”

Maxol recently announced its membership of VLS (Verification of Lubricant Specifications) which is an independent organisation providing a credible and trusted means to verify lubricant specifications. The aim of VLS is to protect consumers of lubricants by providing an independent and objective means to challenge and verify lubricant specifications and performance claims.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Benefits of Installing Cargo Defender

• Reduce insurance rates • Protects against CURTAIN SLASHING and CARGO THEFT • Reduce the risk of illegal immigration and large fines • Protect the reputation of your company by delivering the cargo on time and intact • Logs all trailer activities including where, when and how long a trailer door/curtain was opened.

Other Products And Services Include:

• GPS Vehicle Tracking • Tail Lift Alarms • Fuel Security Products

Ideal for high value loads

Tel: 00353-74-9710110 - info@cargodefenders.ie -www.cargodefenders.ie

Security Solutions For The Logistics Industry ROTECH is Ireland’s leading supplier of diesel and lube oil dispensing equipment since 1981 FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Diesel Pumps | Diesel Accessories | Fuel Filtering AD Blue | Grease Equipment | Oil Equipment Water Equipment | Workshop Equipment Hilltown, Killinick, Co. Wexford

T: 053 9135165 E: info@rotech.ie | www.rotech.ie

FOR ALL YOUR TRUCKING NEWS

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Komatsu Hybrid gets tax advantage

Komatsu’s new HB215LC-1 Hybrid excavator - of which four units have already been sold in Ireland - has been included on the Triple E list of energyefficient equipment maintained by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on which customers can claim accelerated capital tax allowances.

Under the scheme, which runs until 31 December 2014, the entire allowance in respect of approved energy-efficient equipment can be claimed in the first year. This contrasts with the situation applying to conventional equipment whereby Komatsu HB215LC-1 Hybrid Excavator capital allowances for wear and tear are spread out over an eight-year period.

As an eligible product which is included on the Triple E register, Komatsu HB215LC-1 hybrid owners can claim relief on their corporation tax return along with any other wear and tear allowances without the need to obtain approval for expenditure on energy-efficient equipment.

While advising customers to seek independent taxation advice, Liam Foley, Finance Director with Komatsu distributor McHale Plant Sales of Birdhill said that further information can be obtained by viewing the approved listing of Electric and Alternative Fuel Vehicles on the SEAI website http://triplee.seai.ie/AcaProducts/Search.aspx and by checking the Accelerated Capital Allowances section on the Revenue website http://www.Revenue.ie

Danfoss Power Solutions

Sauer-Danfoss has officially changed its name to Danfoss and now operates as a new business segment called Danfoss Power Solutions within the Danfoss Group. Danfoss is globally recognized for its innovative, energy-efficient solutions in a variety of industries, and adopted the Sauer-Danfoss business into its business structure through the acquisition earlier this year.

The experts at Danfoss Power Solutions will continue to provide mobile hydraulic solutions. Customers will be able to work with their existing contacts on new and ongoing product development projects. Technical service, applications know-how, and a focus on advanced hydraulic and electrohydraulic components and systems continue to be key elements in the company’s strategy.

In the long-term, customers can expect to benefit from the wider global network and broader technology base that Danfoss has to offer – and the synergies in know-how that arise when two technology companies come together. Employing 23,000 people worldwide, Danfoss has a top market ranking in all core business areas, including refrigeration and air conditioning controls, power electronics, heating, and mobile hydraulics.

Danfoss Power Solutions are pleased to announce the appointment of as their Sales & Service partners for Ireland North and South.

One strong global brand Like Danfoss, Danfoss Power Solutions is committed to the highest quality, delivery and performance standards, and will continue to follow these standards going forward. By pairing competencies with an organization committed to innovation and R&D, Danfoss will continue to fuel the innovation that has enabled Sauer-Danfoss to serve as an innovative leader within the mobile hydraulic industry.

“By joining Danfoss, we become part of one strong global brand with a high level of commitment to R&D. This will drive innovation forward and allow us to stay focused on serving our customers,” says Eric Alström, former Sauer-Danfoss President & CEO who continues this role for the new Danfoss Power Solutions business segment.

“The merger also ensures our customers a high degree of continuity. Danfoss has had a long-standing relationship with SauerDanfoss through its board-level involvement, and has helped shape our existing strategy that we will continue to pursue.”

A milestone for Danfoss Danfoss President & CEO Niels B. Christiansen emphasizes that the merger is a milestone in the history of Danfoss. “This is an extremely important step for the entire Danfoss Group. Sauer-Danfoss is a well-run global company so, for us, it marks the convergence of two equal units that will become stronger as a result. Together, we will discover synergies, learn from each other and build on common principles, bringing longterm benefits for all our customers.”

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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LD Lines to lauch first ever IrelandFrance West Coast - Spain Ferry Link

LD Lines has announced a new passenger and freight ferry service between Rosslare Europort in Ireland, the France West coast port of St.Nazaire and the Northern Spanish port of Gijón.

Scheduled to commence from 7 January 2014, this will be the first ever ferry link between Ireland, Western France and Northern Spain, forging new trading links combined with cost-saving advantages and environmental benefits for passengers and hauliers.

For the tourist market the link to Gijón makes destinations in Spain and Portugal easier than ever to drive to and for the freight market, by passing the UK landbridge, quicker access to and from the Continental mainland.

In addition the France West coast port of St.Nazaire is ideally located for popular French holiday locations such as Brittany, La Baule, La Rochelle and Bordeaux as well as providing easy accessibility for freight traffic between mainland Europe and now with the new service, Ireland.

Welcoming the new service, John Lynch, General Manager Rosslare Europort, said,”This new service, the first Ro Ro connection between Ireland, France and the Iberian peninsula, will open up new opportunities for trade between Ireland, France, Spain and Portugal, with the potential for inbound tourism to Ireland also benefiting significantly.”

The new service will depart Rosslare on Fridays at 21:00 ; depart St.Nazaire to Gijón on Saturdays at 22:00 ; return from Gijón on Tuesdays at 22:00 ; depart St.Nazaire to Rosslare on Wednesdays at 23:59 with an arrival time in Rosslare on Thursdays at 21:15.

This represents a major extension of LD Lines’ “Motorway of the Seas” Atlantic network, coinciding with other new services between Poole and Santander, which began in November 2013, Poole – Gijón which commences from 5 January 2014 and the existing France – Spain route linking St.Nazaire and Gijón, which was introduced in 2010.

Christophe Santoni, CEO of LD Lines commented, “The new service will offer a value-for-money direct route between Ireland, France and Spain and in addition to making European destinations more accessible, will give the tourism and freight markets greater choice.”

LD Lines’ new network of ferry services will be operated by two sister ships Norman Asturias and Scintu. The modern Ro Ro and passenger vessels, built in 2008/2009 by the Visentini Italian shipyard, each have capacity for up to 500 passengers, 200 cars and 110 freight vehicles or 150 trailers. On board facilities include 120 cabins, bar, restaurant, shop and a full range of passenger entertainment is being developed and introduced in the months ahead.

The Rosslare – Gijón service fares start from €579 for a car and two passengers including cabin. Rosslare – St.Nazaire fares start from €199 for a car and two passengers or €249 for a car and two passengers including cabin. Rosslare – St.Nazaire introductory fare offer is limited to the first 200 car passenger bookings.

For more information and to book : www.ldlines.com

The City Bin Co. marks First birthday in the City with €1.5M fleet investment

Award-winning company invests in six new state-of-the-art additions to Dublin City fleet Award-winning Irish waste collection operator, The City Bin Co., marked its 1st birthday in the Dublin City area with six new state-of-the-art vehicles for its fleet operating in the capital.

Since shaking up the market with its high-profile entry to the Dublin city area a year ago, the company now serves over 30,000 customers, with hundreds more signing up every week. Such has been the demand for their fresh, customerfocussed service, that The City Bin Co. has doubled its staff numbers (from 55 to 110) since last December.

The latest €1.5million investment in six Dennis Eagle trucks purchased through Setanta Vehicles coincides with a renewed customer recruitment drive offering quality service at the competitive price of €12.50 per month. The company has also teamed up with three other Irish companies – Eason’s, Brady Family Ham and MyToysDirect.com - to offer customers a range of discounts in the lead up to Christmas.

Gene Browne, CEO of The City Bin Co., said, “Dublin residents have long been yearning for a waste collection service that they could trust, and a company that consistently delivered on its promise. Our waste collection proposition is all about customer service and about fundamentally changing the relationship that people have with their waste provider. We are delighted to be celebrating an extremely successful year, particularly in such a crowded market and having been the victim of arson soon after we launched here. We remain relentlessly in expansion mode and look forward to rolling out our award-winning service to more homes across Gene Browne, CEO (left), The City Bin Company with Martin Ryan of Setanta Vehicle Importers Ltd/Dennis Eagle Ireland.

Dublin City in 2014 and beyond.”

16

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Transport Companies Wanted for Deliveries to Stores Lidl is a European wide company in the food retail market, with three warehouses in the Republic of Ireland servicing our network of stores.

We are looking for transport companies to handle the daily, internal store deliveries for a long-term business relationship.

Whether a company is regional or international, we seek partners who have a high degree of flexibility, reliability, quality, service and who are willing to develop and grow with us.

The ideal company we are looking for is well established in the haulage market and has a medium to large fleet of high quality trucks and trailers.

The goods to be transported consist of both temperature and non-temperature sensitive goods that are picked on pallets.

The vehicles will primarily be used for round trips i.e. the start and end points of a trip will always be the central warehouse. Transport companies can express an interest in operating within one or all of our regions, namely Newbridge, Charleville and Mullingar.

Technical Requirements 路 Articulated and rigid trucks designed to carry foodstuffs 路 Dual evaporator trailers and splitter doors 路 Detailed technical requirements will be specified during the tender

Interested?

Please contact us at the below email address with a brief profile of your company and your contact information by Friday 14.02.2014: Email: logistics@lidl.ie Lidl Ireland GmbH, Great Connell Road, Newbridge, Co.Kildare

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20/01/2014 12:26

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Port of Cork Company Appoint New Harbour Master

The Port of Cork Company have announced the appointment of Captain Paul O’Regan as Harbour Master, Port Operations Manager and Superintendent of Pilots of the Port of Cork. Captain O’Regan will assume the position immediately.

Commenting on this Board appointment, Mr Brendan Keating, Chief Executive said: “We are very pleased to announce the appointment of Captain Paul O’Regan as Harbour Master & Port Operations Manager in the Port of Cork Company. Paul has worked with the company for eight years and during that time he has gained considerable experience and a great understanding of the port business and he has shown excellent leadership qualities. I am confident he will be a great asset to the company in the years ahead.”

Captain Paul O’Regan joined the Port of Cork in 2005 as a Pilot and then progressed to Deputy Harbour Master in 2008. Prior to this, Paul worked with a number of overseas and Irish companies.

Captain Paul O’Regan Speaking about his appointment, Captain O’Regan said: “I am delighted to take on the role of Harbour Master and Port Operations Manager in the Port of Cork and look forward to working with my colleagues, customers and all stakeholders within the Harbour. It is an exciting time in the Port of Cork Company with its ambitious plans for the development of the port. These plans will consolidate Cork as a key seaport enabling the port to strengthen its position in global trade.”

Captain Paul O’Regan takes over as Port of Cork Harbour Master from Captain Pat Farnan, who retired in January 2013.

The Port of Cork offers all six shipping modes such as; Lift on, Lift off, Roll on Roll off, Break bulk, liquid bulk, dry bulk and cruise and is Ireland’s second busiest port.

Leading Lights in Road Safety Award for Advance Drive School of Motoring, Salthill

Philip Rice, instructor and Managing Director of Advance Drive School of Motoring in Salthill was presented with the prestigious ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety Award’ for ‘Approved Driving Instructor of the Year 2013 for the Truck Category’ on Wednesday 11th December 2013 in Farmleigh House, Dublin. Philip was presented with the award by Chairman of the Road Safety Authority Mr Gay Byrne and scooped the Nationwide Award for his recognition and contribution to road safety.

Philip is a registered ADI since January 2009 and was nominated in two ‘Leading Lights’ Award categories for both the Bus and the Truck and provides driver training in all categories of vehicles (A, A1, B, BE, C1, C, CE, D1, D) along with delivering Driver CPC Periodic Training for professional drivers. Philip is also a member of the RSA’s Stakeholders Forum representing the West of Ireland after being elected by a number of ADI’s in his area of Galway.

As said by Host and MC of the Leading Lights Awards - Today FM’s Ray D’Arcy ‘Philip really has all areas of Road Safety fully covered.’

The ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards were introduced in 2008 to celebrate the outstanding efforts of people across Ireland to make roads safer for everyone. The awards provide a special opportunity for members of the public to honor the contribution of exceptional people who promote road safety in their communities.

For more information please contact Philip Rice being presented his Ailbhe O’Shaughnessy, Advance Drive, 166 Upper Salthill, Galway award by Chairman of the Road www.advancedrive.com Safety Authority Gay Byrne ailbhe@advancedrive.com Tel: 091 524689 / 085 8661144

IRU points to economic growth

The IRU’s Road Transport Indices show that after the double dip recession that hit the EU in 2009 and 2012, economic growth seems to be gradually returning, as evidenced by a slight 0.4% increase in tonnes transported at the end of 2013. IRU Head of Sustainable Development, Jens Hügel, stresses, “A detailed analysis of the latest economic figures show that there is a general upward trend in Europe. However, Europe remains outpaced by BRIC and TRACECA countries, which show better performances in transport volumes in 2013 and are likely to continue doing so in 2014.” BRIC and TRACECA road transport operators carried 5.1% and 3.4% more volume respectively than EU transport operators. These numbers are expected to reach 5% and 3.7% respectively in 2014, while EU transport volumes will increase by only 1.3%. “BRIC and TRACECA governments perfectly understand that systemic innovation and investment in efficient road transport are instrumental in driving economic growth. They should now build on this success by effectively implementing tried and tested multilateral trade and transport facilitation instruments, such as the UN Harmonization and TIR Conventions, allowing for efficient and secure multimodal international transport,” Mr Hügel concluded.

18

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

truck news designed copy_Layout 1 20/01/2014 16:20 Page 16

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19

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Mercedes-Benz Sprinter wins 2014 Continental Irish Van of the Year award

Mercedes – Benz Sprinter voted Continental Irish Van of the Year 2014 – pictured (l to r): Gerry Murphy, Chairman, IMWA, Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres Ireland, Stephen Byrne, Chief Executive, Mercedes Benz, model Adrienne Murphy, Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager, Mercedes Benz and Brian Byrne, Chairman, IMWA Van of the Year Jury

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been voted the Continental Irish Van of the Year 2014 by the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA). The announcement was made at an awards ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Hotel Santry today in front of the leading figures from the Irish motor industry.

The Sprinter was adjudged the winner following the IMWA van jury vote which was based on a range of criteria including safety, driving quality, reliability, versatility and value-for-money.

Presenting the award to Stephen Byrne, Chief Executive of MercedesBenz in Ireland, Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland said: “The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter brings a new level of comfort, driving dynamics and economy to the commercial sector and it is no surprise that the members of the IMWA have voted it the best van in Ireland.

Well done to Mercedes-Benz.”

Also at the awards ceremony, the Citroen C4 Picasso was crowned the Continental Irish Car of the Year for 2014.

Continental Irish Van of the Year 2014 Category Winners Announced

The Toyota Auris Van and Ssangyong Korando Commercial have been named Category Winners of the Continental Irish Van of the Year 2014 title by the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA) Van Jury.

All nine voting members of the IMWA Van Jury took part in the vote. In deciding on these category winners, the jury members took into account such attributes as load capacity, reliability, overall versatility, cost of ownership and drive comfort.

Presenting the awards to Ian Corbett, of Toyota Ireland, and John Keogh, Ssangyong Ireland; Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland, commented: “In today’s tough commercial vehicle market, these two vehicles have been singled out by the Irish Motoring Writers Association van experts. I am sure that these awards will provide a huge boost for both the Auris Van and Korando Commercial.”

Brian Byrne, Chairman of the IMWA van jury, said: “In assessing candidates for the Continental Irish Van of the Year category awards, our jurors pay close attention to how the vehicles meet the particular requirements of the Irish market – that is why these recommendations are so useful to Irish van / commercial drivers and fleet managers” The Commercial SUV and Car Derived Van of the Year titles are category awards under the umbrella of the Continental Irish Van of the Year. The overall Continental Irish Van of the Year award for 2014 was won by the Mercedes Benz Sprinter.

Commercial Spare Parts and UAN - a growing relationship

Commercial Spare Parts, based in Portadown, Northern Ireland, specialises in supplying replacement parts and the re-lining of brake shoes for trucks and trailers in the area. Established some 8 years ago by Graham Sergeant, the company has grown and recently moved into new premises, double the size of their original location.

In mid-2012 CSP established a working relationship with United Aftermarket Network (UAN) for the supply of key commercial vehicle components. Over the past 12 months UAN has seen strong growth in in the sale of replacement truck parts approaching some 10%, outstripping other areas of the automotive aftermarket.

“We have developed a very good working relationship with UAN and the they have opened many doors for us in the sourcing of new product lines.” said CSP’s Graham Sergeant. “We got on well with the UAN team from the moment we started working together. The truck and trailer market here in Northern Ireland is very competitive and so we appreciate the help and support we receive from them.

UAN understand the CV replacement parts market and constantly add new products which helps us grow our market share.”

CSP is one of a burgeoning group of over 30 UAN members in the UK specialising in the supply of CV replacement parts. UAN can now claim to be the buying group with the largest number of dedicated CV factors.

20

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

truck news designed copy_Layout 1 20/01/2014 16:20 Page 18

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truck news designed copy_Layout 1 20/01/2014 16:20 Page 19

Celtrak Win Service Exporter of the Year Award 2013

Celtrak, Ireland’s original provider of GPS Vehicle Tracking solutions won Service Exporter of the Year at the Irish Exporters Association 2013 awards. The award was presented at a gala ball in the Convention Centre, Dublin on Friday night (22/11/2013) by Colin Lawlor, President of the Irish Exporters Association, the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore T.D. and Julie Sinnamon Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise Ireland to Nicola Jones of Celtrak.

The award recognises the efforts made by Celtrak in securing and building new export markets in the international services sectors. Celtrak currently export to over 30 countries worldwide through direct sales and partner channels.

“We are delighted to be recognised for our effort and success in exporting our SaaS (Software as a Service). With the recent appointment of Kevin Nelson as General Manager of North America we look forward to further growth in the U.S. market in particular in 2014 “Joe McBreen, CEO, Celtrak

Colin Lawlor, President Irish Exporters Association, Eamon Gimore TD, Tainaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Nicola Jones (Celtrak) and Julie Sinnamon (CEO, Enterprise Ireland)

Volvo Truck boosts safety on slippery winter roads

For trucks with trailers, slippery winter roads and downhill gradients represent a tough challenge for even the most skilled of drivers. There is always the risk of the rig becoming unstable and, in the worst-case scenario, starting to jack-knife. Volvo Trucks has now developed a solution that significantly improves safety.

“Even if the truck driver ultimately manages to control the situation, it can be extremely unpleasant both for oncoming road users and the truck driver, if a rig suddenly veers off its intended course on a downhill gradient,” says Mats Sabelström, brake specialist for Volvo Trucks.

In order to minimise the risk of this type of situation and potential accidents, Volvo Trucks has developed a system known as Stretch Brake that automatically retards the trailer and straightens up the rig on slippery downhill stretches.

“About 15 percent of the total of 30,000 serious road accidents in Europe every year involve trucks, in a slightly declining trend 1. With effective brakes, stability systems and collision warning systems we are already helping drivers avoid risky situations in difficult conditions. Stretch Brake is yet another important part of our long-term drive to increase traffic safety and minimise the number of accidents involving trucks,” says Carl Johan Almqvist, Traffic and Product Safety Director at Volvo Trucks.

Stretch Brake is a complement to the rig’s electronic stability program (ESP) – yet another system that Volvo Trucks was the first truck maker in the world to introduce. While ESP is at its most effective at higher speeds, Stretch Brake is only operational at speeds below 40 km/h. Both systems contribute to better stability and easier steering.

“One might call Stretch Brake a kind of low-speed ESP. As the rig approaches a downhill slope, the driver manually activates the system. When the driver then releases the accelerator, the brakes on the trailer are automatically applied in a pulsated mode all the way down the hill until the gradient levels out and speed can once again be increased,” relates Mats Sabelström.

Stretch Brake was introduced in 2012 on Volvo FH trucks pulling drawbar trailers and in 2013 on Volvo FM trucks pulling drawbar trailers. In 2014 it will also become available for Volvo FH and FM semi-trailer rigs.

“Drivers who have tested Stretch Brake came away very impressed with the system. As we now also introduce the system on tractor-semitrailer rigs even more drivers will be able to negotiate difficult downhill gradients both more simply and safely,” says Carl Johan Almqvist.

According to the Volvo Trucks Accident Research Team, which specialises in studying traffic safety, about 60 or so of the truck accidents that occurred in Sweden alone last year could have been avoided with Stretch Brake 2.

Learn more about the Stretch Brake Stretch Brake Facts Increases safety on downhill gradients, especially on slippery roads and in curves.

Applies the drawbar brakes in a pulsating mode.

Straightens the rig, makes steering easier and reduces the risk of jack-knifing.

Operational at speeds below 40 km/h.

Introduced in 2012 on Volvo FH trucks and in 2013 on Volvo FM trucks. In 2014 it will also become available on tractor/semi-trailer rigs.

Full of the Pipe 2014 dates confirmed

This year’s Full of the Pipe event will take place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 June.

The Cavan Equestrian Centre will once again host the show, which has grown to become one of the premier events in the haulage calendar. So if you are a trucker or trader, now is the time to book your place. A reduced rate now applies for all bookings, so get in early and 22

contact Kevin Mulqueen at 086 0850015.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Expansion for Fleetmatics - 24 new jobs created

Following the official opening of its global headquarters in Dublin, by the Taoiseach Enda Kenny in January of this year, Fleetmatics, one of the leading global providers of fleet management solutions for small and medium-sized businesses, has increased its headcount by close to 50% per cent, adding 24 more employees to its Dublin-based hub, with new jobs in Research and Development, Product Management, Marketing and Finance.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny opens the new

Fleetmatics Group headquarters in Dublin As of December 1st 2013, there are now 72 employed by Fleetmatics at the facility in Tallaght, Co. Dublin, with plans to employ a further two high-end software developers and three database developers in the short-term. Separately, in London, the company has increased its employee headcount by 20.

The past year has seen a number of very significant developments for Fleetmatics following expansion in Europe and North America. As well as the opening of its new global headquarters in Dublin, the company listed on the New York Stock Exchange in October 2012.

Peter Mitchell, Chief Technology Officer, Fleetmatics commented: “We are very pleased with our performance for 2013 so far. The company has reached many milestones and as a result has been able to increase employee numbers across various departments at our Dublin base. In the short-term, Fleetmatics plans to recruit several high-end software developers. This reinforces our commitment to Dublin as our global centre of innovation.�

Road death rise concerns RSA

The Road Safety Authority has stressed that the number of lives lost on Irish roads in 2013 is a cause for concern. Twenty eight people more were killed on Irish roads in 2013 compared to 2012 with 190 fatalities throughout 2013. A number of factors have played a part in the death toll with speeding, driver error, fatigue and mobile phone use all at the top of the list. The RSA has pleaded with motorists to take greater care on the roads.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Holden designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:33 Page 1

Holden began renting municpal equipment in 1989

oversees an Paul Holden fresh fleet lly na io pt ce ex

I

n October, 2013 it was announced that Holden Plant Rentals had been awarded the exclusive and prestigious multi-million-euro, five-year contract to supply and maintain Cork City Council’s entire new fleet of over 250 vehicles. The contract was awarded following a three-year pre-qualification and tendering process.

As the sole supplier of all corporate vehicles to Cork City Council, Holden Plant Rentals has partnered with the major European manufacturers to obtain the most suitable equipment and best value for the local authority. Rental costs for the fleet – which consists of motorcycles, cars, vans, tippers, cranes, 4x4s, road

The company supplies and maintains fleets nationwide

sweepers, street scrubbers, refuse trucks, street washers, tractors, diggers, loaders, trailers, compressors, road lining machines, mowers, snow ploughs, gritters, mobile power packs and utility vehicles – have been estimated by the Council at €840,000 per year but will vary year-on-year depending on requirements.

All vehicle maintenance and repairs will be conducted at Holden Plant Rentals’ Cork facility in Douglas, where bespoke and dedicated diagnostics are in place for all selected equipment, with full support from Holdens’ Mullinavat, County Kilkenny head office.

This is a historic partnership as it represents the first instance in Ireland whereby a City Council has awarded a contract of this magnitude to a single supplier. Holden Plant

Landmark contract for Holden Plant Rentals Having inked a major new contract with Cork City Council for the exclusive supply and maintenance of its entire fleet, Holden Plant Rentals recorded a number of prestigious firsts in 2013. As a very successful calendar year for the company came to an end, Irish Trucker popped into its Mullinavat, County Kilkenny base to discuss this ground-breaking new deal with managing director Paul Holden.

CONTACT DETAILS 24

Holden Plant Rentals Ltd. Mullinavat, Co. Kilkenny Tel: 051-898106. Email: info@holdenplantreantals.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Holden designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:33 Page 2

Rentals was the obvious partner of choice as it boasts a long relationship supplying Cork City Council with specialist vehicles and maintenance (going back to 1999). The contract was signed at a ceremony in City Hall in mid-August and the anticipated fleet roll-out completion date is mid-to-late 2014.

Prior to this contract, Cork City Council’s fleet was ten years old and comprised a mixture of Council-owned and hired vehicles. It was decided that the transition would take place gradually to allow the Council to continue to use some of these vehicles until they became uneconomical to repair.

Under the terms of this deal with Holden Plant Rentals,

A wide selection of equipment is available

Cork City Council is projecting rental savings of around 38% per annum and this will enable them to “migrate to a fully hired fleet over the coming years”.

Another novel aspect of this

contract is that Holden Plant Rentals will be allowed to decide on the make and model of vehicles supplied.

The tenderer is allowed to supply vehicles up to five years old once they comply

Holden is now the sole supplier of corporate vehicles to Cork City Council

Holden supplies vehicles to the waste management sector IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

with the specifications and requirements of the tender.

“This is the biggest contract we have ever participated in and it is also the largest ever awarded in Ireland to one fleet supplier exclusively,” Paul Holden confirms. “We have been supplying Cork with specialist equipment for 15 years and they had their own in-house maintenance section, which has been discontinued and we have taken over the workshop facilities for maintenance purposes. This will be a seamless procedure as we’ve had staff based in Cork for ten years already.

But we’ll be upping the ante now, so to speak, and will maintain the entire fleet from there.

Looking to complete a clean sweep!

25

Holden designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:33 Page 3

“Between mechanical, body repair and administration, we have taken on eight additional staff as a direct result of the new contract.”

Over the course of the next eight to nine months, Holden Plant Rentals – who already had around 100 vehicles in Cork - will purchase up to 150 new vehicles to fulfil the contract.

“The capital expenditure of this contract will be in the region of €6m and we have to consider the equity of the vehicles at the end of the contract when purchasing, This is why we will only be selecting premium vehicles and Cork City Council is assured that we will select the best vehicles for the purpose. We have built up a good working relationship with them over the past 15 years and there is a lot of trust involved. The deal is unique in that they are allowing us the option of not supplying brand new vehicles and have given us complete control and authority to select the vehicles for them.”

Holden Plant Rentals works regularly with many other Government bodies, semi state companies and local authorities.

“We have contracts with the Luas operators Alstom for supply of specialist track cleaning equipment, Dublin City Council, where we have in the region of 300 vehicles

operating, although – unlike Cork - we are not the exclusive supplier to them. We also supply vehicles to Fingal, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown and South Dublin County Council’s and we supply and maintain the entire fleets for Waterford and Limerick City Council’s along with being the exclusive A total of 72 people are employed supplier of all runway

by Holden Plant Rentals cleaning and metal/glycol recovery machines to Dublin Airport Authority since October this year.

Most recent contract awarded was in December this year to supply Dublin City Fire Service with a fleet of specialist mobile incident command vehicles on a 5 year contract with full maintenance. The Fire Service trucks are currently being built in Germany with expected delivery in May2014.”

On top of this, the company is also heavily involved in the waste industry (they own and maintain the entire Greyhound fleet, for example, including 70 Refuse trucks with specialist bin weighing IT systems and a fleet of waste

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Holden Plant Rentals

The total fleet size is approximately 1,400 units

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The fleet of over 250 vehicles supplied to Cork City Council by Holden will include some motorcycles IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Holden designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:33 Page 4

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Holden designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:33 Page 6

All fleet maintenance is carried out in-house

re-handling plant and equipment based in Clondalkin), which brings the total fleet size to approximately, 1,400 units.

“We carry out all maintenance and bodywork repairs on all of them, with contract managers and mobile maintenance crews in

all areas along with our own commercial body repair facility in Waterford City,” Paul continues.

Will he be actively seeking any new contracts or is HPR close to optimum capacity?

“You are always on the move.

It’s the nature of this business that you strive to develop and

grow. We have been recently awarded the Bord Na Mona contract for maintenance of their AES refuse truck fleet and a contract with Bus Eireann to provide chassis treatment to prolong the active lifespan of their bus and coaches, For that, we are treating the Limerick,

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Holden Plant Rentals From All At

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Cork and Waterford fleets.”

At present, Holden Plant Rentals employs 72 full-time workers, the majority of whom are long-term employees. “Our business has grown year on year and we have not experienced any downturn,” notes Paul.

Returning to the new contract with Cork City Council, he concludes: “As we have the flexibility to provide any vehicle we deem suitable once it falls within the tender specification, we will be keeping the fleet as new and shiny as possible. Our plan is to renew the lighter vans, tipper trucks, refuse trucks, road sweepers and cars immediately and the remainder phased in over a three-year period.

“We have obtained extended warranties from the various Manufacturers and are being supplied within inhouse diagnostics equipment bespoke to each equipment type, either from the importer or direct from the manufacturer. We’ve also reached agreements with the manufacturers that will allow

29

Holden designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:37 Page 7

us to carry out our own maintenance, servicing and warranty repairs, which will reduce downtime significantly. We are also required to have standby vehicles available in each category on a ratio basis depending on the vehicle type and application.”

Holden Plant Rentals – Ireland’s largest specialist equipment rental company was founded at Deerpark, Mullinavat, by Patrick Holden in 1955, with the early focus on the sale and repair of cars and agricultural machinery. In 1968, the business was appointed an agency for Zetor tractors in Kilkenny / Waterford and the emphasis was switched more towards the agricultural sector.

In 1989, a milestone departed was made when the business expanded into municipal equipment rental, mostly to local councils. This aspect of the business

e x p a n d e d quickly, due to the strong demand for a company that could both supply and m a i n t a i n specialist c o m p l e x equipment.

Holden soon began supplying the CRH group with loading and Holden Plant Rentals has been the exclusive compaction supplier of all runway cleaning equipment to Dublin Airport Authority since October equipment and would become the largest supplier and one of the group’s primary operator of road sweeping suppliers of vehicles and equipment in Ireland. plant in Ireland. At the same Since Day One, the time, they became involved in company’s policy has been to the waste management not just meet but to exceed sector, supplying specialist customers’ requirements, segregation equipment, reoffering an unrivalled level of handling plant, refuse trucks, product, service and back-up, shredders and screens to with dedicated area Ireland’s major waste management companies.

Holden Plant Rentals is also

Holden owns and maintains the entire Greyhound fleet

Kilkenny Vehicle Centre

Continued Best Wishes To Holden Plant Rentals, From

Callan Rd., Kilkenny

Tel: 056-7722830 www.kilkennyvehicles.com 30

management based in Kilkenny, Waterford, Dublin, Galway, Cork and Limerick.

This is supported by mobile service engineers who operate nationwide, ensuring the regular provision of preventative maintenance programmes.

Holden Platn Rentals is headquartered in Mullinavet, Co. Kilkenny

Westpark Motor Co. Ltd.

Continued Best Wishes To Holden Plant Rentals From Kylemore Park West, Dublin 10 Telephone: 01-6266152 E: info@westparkmotors.ie www.westparkmotors.ie

SALES - SERVICE - PARTS Light & Heavy Goods DOE Testing & Tachograph Calibration IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Cahill Truck Bodies designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:46 Page 1

Cahill Truck Bodies has been designing and manufacturing truck bodies since 1939

F

ounded in 1939 by the recently-deceased Patrick Cahill, the family-run business is now in its third generation, with brothers Rory and Eoin Cahill following in the footsteps of their aforementioned grandfather and father Joseph, who remains heavily

The County Kilkenny-based company is a leading producer of specialist vehicles

involved in the company.

Employing 10 staff, Cahill Truck Bodies has a large and loyal customer-base in the South-East, but also attracts customers from all over Ireland.

Its main customers include hauliers, farmers and horse transport companies. As one

of the leading producers of horseboxes in Ireland, Cahill Truck Bodies is proud to be a Renault-approved partner.

“We’re particularly wellknown in the horse transport industry, supplying to transport companies, trainers and stud farms. We also have a lot of customers in the

haulage and farming sectors,” Rory explains.

Standard products include side-curtain bodies, GRP box bodies, tippers, fridge bodies, machinery carriers, bread vans, demountable body systems and drop-side bodies. Cahill’s undertake specialised projects from the

75 years of excellence For three-quarters of a century, Cahill Truck Bodies has been designing and manufacturing a diverse range of commercial vehicle bodies in the picturesque village of Graignamanagh, Co. Kilkenny.

CONTACT DETAILS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Cahill Truck Bodies High Street, Graignamanagh, Co. Kilkenny.

Tel: 059 972 4201 Fax: 059 972 4378 Email: info@cahilltruckbodies.ie

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Cahill Truck Bodies designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:46 Page 2

Cahill’s offer a range of high quality horseboxes to suit the needs of horse transporters, trainers and breeders

concept stage and work through all stages from concept to manufacturing with customers. Among the specialist vehicles they produce are mobile libraries,

32

mobile workshops, mobile display units and catering trailers.

“Some of our customers have very specific requirements and it’s our job

to design and manufacture exactly what they want. If a customer comes into us with a layout drawing, we will get working on it straight away. If they want something made to

specification, we will do it for them,” Rory continues.

Three generations of experience in commercial bodybuilding is coupled with 3D CAD technology in the

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Cahill Truck Bodies designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:46 Page 3

design of Cahill Truck Bodies’ products. The company’s employees use their considerable experience, knowledge and skill to manufacture a wide range of products using quality materials and relevant manufacturing technologies.

The Kilkenny-based firm offers a diverse range of additional features such as toolboxes/storage lockers, cargo control, auxiliary hydraulic circuits, specialised electrical installations and aerodynamic features.

When it comes to producing horseboxes, Cahill Truck Bodies has few equals, having established a reputation for quality, durability and style over the past 70 years. They offer a

range of high-quality horseboxes to suit the needs of horse transporters, trainers, breeders and eventers.

The horseboxes they have manufactured transport hundreds of horses throughout Europe on a daily basis.

Cahill’s reputation is built on supplying a quality product designed to each individual customer's requirements.

The key principles in their product are animal comfort and safety, operator usability, reliability and a complimentary finish.

Their long-standing relationship with Ireland’s leading horse transport

operators has given them the experience and knowledge to

design and manufacture a quality horsebox based on these principles.

All of Cahill Truck Bodies’ horseboxes that are specified for international horse transport are fully compliant with all of the requirements of EU council regulations, ((EC) 1 of 2005 on the protection of animals in transport and related operations), for the purpose of achieving "Type 2" authorisation from the Department of Agriculture and Food. They offer many features ranging from ramp options to stall configurations to living/grooms areas.

No job is too big or too small for this highly-reputable family-run concern. Here’s to another 75 years of Cahill Truck Bodies!

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Cahill Truck Bodies From

Joe Mallon Motors Naas

3D Fingal Bay Business Park, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin.

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Cahill Truck Bodies

Specialist Motor Trade Brokers

Tel: +353 1 841 1632 Fax: +353 1 841 1976

www.northcountybrokers.com North County Brokers Ltd is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Main Renault Dealers

Joe Mallon Motors Naas Sallins Rd., Naas, Co. Kildare T: 045 897675 F: 045 897312 www.joemallonmotors.ie 33

McLoughlin Coachworks designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:53 Page 1

McLoughlin Coachworks are members of the Vehicle Bodybuilders and Repairer Association (VBRA)

25 years going strong CONTACT DETAILS 34

McLoughlin Coachworks 270 Battleford Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT71 7NP Phone +44.28 3754 8418 email: info@coachworksireland.com Dublin: Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port www.coachworksireland.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McLoughlin Coachworks designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:53 Page 2

Manfreight Ltd.

Best Wishes To McLoughlin Coachworks

UK and CROSS CHANNEL HAULAGE

Manfreight Ltd. 2a Carn Court Road, Portadown, Craigavon, Armagh BT63 5YX

Tel: 028-3839 9889

Email: chris@manfreight.co.uk

40 years in business ... and still smiling!

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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N

Breakdowns are the scourge of the haulage industry (well that and the price of fuel) and are something that every haulier strives to avoid.

ot only are breakdowns costly, but they could also result in the loss of work, both are situations that need to be evaded at every opportunity.

However, repair and service work are part and parcel of the haulage industry and for this month’s edition of Irish Trucker, we profile Dungannon based McLoughlin Coachworks.

Celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, McLoughlin Coachworks can call on many years’ experience to ensure that they provide an efficient service to their large customer base.

Specialising in trailer repairs, maintenance and providing specialist services to Ireland's haulage industry, McLoughlin Coachworks provide all your trailer needs from their purpose built repair facility off the M1 at Dungannon and now at their service and parts centre in Dublin Port.

McLoughlin Coachworks are members of the Vehicle Bodybuilders and Repairers

36

Association (VBRA) and are authorised service and repair agents for Schmitz Cargobull, Lamberet and Krone trailers.

“We are also official parts stockists for Schmitz Cargobull Trailers, Knorr Bremse, Krone Trailers and Lamberet Isotherms,” said John McLoughlin, whose father John established the business and is still involved in the day to day proceedings.

“My father had worked for Dennison’s for many years before he set up his own business. Over the years the company has grown and we now employ about 17 people.

“We would have 14 working here in Dungannon, while there would be three in our depot at Dublin Port. When the company was first started, it was from a premise in Armagh, but about 15 years ago, we moved to our current facility in Dungannon, which was purpose built.

“Three years ago, the opportunity arose to open a depot in Dublin and we did so. Basically, any haulier that may have a problem with

their trailer when they come in from the ferry or are boarding can come to us and we will sort them out.

“Anything that needs to be done with a trailer we can do it. We have a very experienced workforce, most of who have been with us for many years now and with the knowledge we have, we can undertake any job.

“We use state of the art technology and we have ten workshop bays at our headquarters in Dungannon, which means that we can do multiple jobs at once. This ensures that the customer will not be waiting too long for their trailer to be serviced or repaired.”

Time is of the essence in the haulage industry and to that end, the team at McLoughlin’s ensure that a vehicle is maintained or repair to the highest standard in double quick time.

“Accidents are unfortunately something that happen from time to time but here at McLoughlin Coachworks we aim to get you back on the road quickly and with the

highest levels of workmanship.”

Not only do McLoughlin Coachworks service and repair trailers, but they also offer advice on what sort of trailer would best suit their customers’ needs.

“If a customer is looking for a new trailer then we can advise on specifications, suitability for purpose and provide quotes matched with our after-sales expertise in maintenance, repairs and spare parts.”

A wide range of trailer parts are always kept in stock by McLoughlin Coachworks.

“We are now stocking a range of Schmitz and Krone trailer parts. Coupled with our forthcoming online parts ordering system and delivery options throughout Ireland you can have your parts when you need them.”

Preventive maintenance is fast becoming popular within the haulage industry. Getting ahead of the problem is a major plus that can be very cost effective to all hauliers.

“Using preventative maintenance is the cheapest The company was established 25 years ago

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McLoughlin Coachworks designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:53 Page 4

Continued Best Wishes To McLoughlin Coachworks

O’DONOVAN TRANSPORT (CORK) Ltd. Main Street, Carrigtwohill, Co.Cork Tel: 021 4883399 Email: odt@odt.ie

CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES FOR THE FUTURE FROM ALL AT O’DONOVAN TRANSPORT

FOR ALL YOUR TRANSPORT NEEDS

IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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McLoughlin Coachworks designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:53 Page 5

Best Wishes To McLoughlin Coachworks, From

Best Wishes to McLoughlin Coachworks From

IRELAND, U.K. & EUROPE CHILLED AND FROZEN DISTRIBUTION

www.derrytransport.com

41, Kilmacanty Rd., Kilmore, Armagh BT61 8NH

T: (028) 3887 0078 F: (028) 3887 9706

Rafferty & Co. Wishing Continued Success To McLoughlin Coachworks, From

Best Wishes To McLoughlin Coachworks, From

Continued Best Wishes To McLoughlin Coachworks From

OUR OFFICES Newry | Belfast | Dungannon | Dundalk

www.fpmca.com

Best Wishes To McLoughlin Coachworks, From

European Contact Haulage Service

SOLICITORS

Main St, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan

83 Hill Street, Newry, Co. Down BT34 1DG Tel: 028 3026 1102 | Fax: 028 3026 0757 38

www.carnatspt.ie

Tel: +44 28 37 538 181 Fax: +44 28 37 538856 E: info@carnatspt.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McLoughlin Coachworks designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:53 Page 6

The business is located in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone

way to run your fleet.

McLoughlin Coachworks can establish a maintenance schedule for each trailer - at regular intervals we can inspect your trailer and replace any worn parts [brakes, suspension, lighting etc.] with genuine replacements before problems arise.”

Through continued investment, dedication, superior build quality and attention to detail, McLoughlin Coachworks has become one of the main coachwork companies in the 32 counties. This is reflected in its impressive client list, which includes customers from all over the north and

south of Ireland.

“We are still learning and any feedback from our customers is greatly appreciated as it is important to get everything right. We have a good team of experienced and skilled staff, which makes the job a lot easier.

“This is a tough industry to

be involved in, but we would like to expand more and attract more business. We have a good reputation and that alone has got us where we are today, so if we can continue to provide the same level of service and maybe even improve on that then our customers will be even happier.”

A selection of parts on display

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

39

Carryduff designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:06 Page 1

W

hen it comes to providing highquality tyres at the right price – something which has become increasingly important to the discerning

customer in the current economic climate - Carryduff Tyre Centre has found the perfect balance. Stocking an extensive range of tyres to cater for all vehicles – cars,

vans, 4x4s, trucks, buses, tractors and agricultural machinery, trailers and quarrying equipment – the team at Carryduff Tyre Centre have an affordable, quality

solution to fit every problem.

They also supply alloy wheels and offer a first-rate (car and commercial vehicle) wheel alignment service.

Based in a prime location at

Quality tyres at a competitive price Providing a professional service for over two decades, Carryduff Tyre Centre offers a wide selection of tyres for all vehicles, backed up by a reliable, courteous service and – crucially - competitive prices. Irish Trucker headed north to the outskirts of Belfast and met up with founder / proprietor Robert Frazer to find out more about this excellent family business.

CONTACT DETAILS 40

Carryduff Tyre Centre Ltd. 14b Comber Road, Carryduff BT8 8AN. Tel: 028 9081 4460 Fax: 028 9081 5177 Email: sales@carrydufftyres.ndonet.com. www.carrydufftyres.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Carryduff designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:07 Page 2

Carryduff designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:07 Page 3

Edgar Road, Comber Road, Carryduff, Belfast, BT8 8NB Telephone: 028 90 813600 Also At Tamnamore Road, Dungannon Telephone: 028 71 722111

RK Trucks are pleased to be associated with Carryduff Tyre Centre and wish them continuing success for the future

Specialists in Heavy Haulage & Abnormal Loads IRELAND - UK - EUROPE Best Wishes To Carryduff Tyre Centre

5 Ballycarngannon Road, Boardmills Lisburn BT27 6YA Tel+44 (0)28 9263 9499 Fax+44 (0)28 9263 9498 E: enquiries@martrainhaulage.com | www.martrainhaulage.com Continued Best Wishes To Carryduff Tyre Centre, From All At

Best Wishes To Carryduff Tyre Centre, From

John Beers Recovery & Commercial Repairs Any Vehicle, Anywhere Heavy Recovery Specialist Established Since 1994

Accident Recovery • Breakdown Recovery www.johnbeers.com Commercial Vehicle Repairs 42 Drumhirk Rd., Comber, Newtownards, Co. Down BT23 5NN Roadside Assistance Fax: 02897 521455 Mobile: 07802 664 322

028 9752 1542

Adco Distributors (NI) Ltd. 16 Seagoe Industrial Estate,Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT63 5QD T:+44 (0)28 38 353121 F:+44 (0)28 38 338291 email: info@adcoltd.com | www.adcoltd.com

Best Wishes To Carryduff Tyre Centre From

42

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Carryduff designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:07 Page 4

A call-out attended to by Carryduff Tyre Centre

Carryduff, close to Belfast, Carryduff Tyre Centre offers a full range from all the leading tyre manufacturers including (but not limited to) BF Goodrich, Michelin, Bridgestone, Firestone, Hankook, Goodyear, Dunlop, Continental and Pirelli, covering an expansive catchment area which incorporates Belfast city, Comber, Newtownards, Lisburn and anywhere else close to the Down / Antrim border.

Ease of access and the availability of ample parking space make the whole experience as customerfriendly as possible and a modern, comfortable waiting area ensures that each motorist who passes through the doors is relaxed and stress-free while the team of experienced fitters provides a rapid and efficient solution.

Michelin-certified since 2011, Carryduff Tyre Centre also provides a 24-hour callout service. The company takes great pride in everything it does and, with the premises and fleet maintained in pristine condition at all times, the firm boasts an exceptional public image which is more than matched by the outstanding service provided to car

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

owners and commercial vehicle operators alike.

Reflecting on the genesis of the business, Robert reveals: “The company was set up in 1991. I had worked for a couple of years in the tyre trade prior to that and there was an opening in Carryduff for a tyre depot. There was nobody else doing it and we just decided to give it a go.

The business just two miles

down the road from my home place and, thankfully, it has worked out.”

Of course, this didn’t just happen by accident. The reason why the business has been a success is due to the extremely high level of service provided; the quality products supplied; the comprehensive and flexible nature of the work; and the professional customer care

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Big or small, Carryduff Tyre Centre have it all

that permeates every nook of the operation.

“We started out by renting a small unit but then in 1997, due to increased demand, we built our own purpose-built depot on a three-quarter acre site. We decided that we would supply tyres for all kinds of vehicles, from the

44

largest to the smallest, and there has been a strong demand right across the board.”

Indeed, on the morning the interview took place four monster 850kg tyres had been fitted onto a piece of quarry equipment – very specialised tyres which cost

£5,500 each!

“As well as cars, we provide a wheel alignment service to trucks,” says the company founder. “A lot of other depots don’t go near the heavier stuff when it comes to alignment, but we do. We have invested in the latest Haweka commercial laser wheel

alignment system and our customers are really happy with that. Fuel economy is vitally important to commercial vehicle operators these days and accurate wheel alignment can contribute towards maximising this.”

While other tyre centres also provide ancillary

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Carryduff designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:07 Page 6

Carryduff Tyre Centre provide a 24-hour service

services such as bulbs and batteries, Carryduff Tyre Centre are more than happy to focus exclusively on what thye knows best! “We stick to the tyres. That’s what we’ve developed our reputation for and that’s what we will continue to concentrate on.

We have over 20 years’ experience so there’s no point changing what we do.”

Between full time and part time, a crew of 15 is employed, with a fleet of three vans providing an emergency breakdown and mobile fitting service throughout the Greater Belfast / County Down area and sometimes beyond.

“We’re happy with what we have. We stock all the premium brands as well as budget tyres and commercial re-treads.”

At this time of year, as the threat of slippery roads becomes all too real, more and more people will be thinking about changing their tyres. “People are looking for decent tyres with a bit of quality to them and more people are opting to have winter tyres fitted. They are a great job in the bad weather

Continued Best Wishes To Carryduff Tyre Centre Specialist Suppliers of All Types of Tyres, Agri, Truck, Plant, Car, Van And 4x4 Contact Sales Director Martin Blaney 087 9461610

and they are very effective.

Fleets making gas and oil deliveries for example, or milk men – who would be on the road early in the morning – tend to go for them.”

And as for the future: “We will keep doing what we’re doing,” he concludes. “The tyre trade has certainly changed a lot since we started the business 22 years ago. People are looking for a service now. There is also a much bigger range of makes and sizes and applications now and you need to know a lot more. With regular Health & Safety and fleet inspections, operators need to make sure their tyres are in optimal condition and we are here to help with that.

“In conjunction with our partners, we provide a 24hour service throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe.

We carry a huge range of tyres in stock, ready for same-day fitting.

“We also do puncture repairs and offer free pressure and tread depth checks, so we’d invite drivers to call in for a free check if they happen to be in the area.”

Unit 4, Cookstown Ind Est., Tallaght Dublin 24 Tel: 01 4520320 | www.kirbytyres.co.uk

Best Wishes To Carryduff Tyre Centre, From

LEADING SUPPLIER OF BUDGET & LEADING BRAND TRUCK TYRES

COMMERCIAL TRUCK TYRE SPECIALISTS

www.internationaltyres.com

Pearsall Drive, Oldbury, West Midlands B69 2RA

Tel: +44 (0) 121 552 6888

Delivery of car, van & 4x4 tyres daily throughout Ireland

Wishing Carryduff Tyre Centre Continued Success

Sales: 048 90 848444

www.mtwholesale.co.uk

R4 Tyre Recycling Continued Success To Carryduff Tyre Centre, From

We R4 a better environment

Northern Ireland’s 1st registered waste disposal site for the recycling and recovery of waste tyres. R4 can recycle Car tyres, truck tyres, Earthmovers, Tractor tyres and many more.

Anywhere, anytime IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tel: 028- 38338167 www.greentyre.net

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I

Shannon Foynes Port

f the goals of Vision 2041 are achieved, then Shannon Foynes Port will double its trade over the next three decades.

Encouragingly for local hauliers, a tripling of HGV activity between Limerick and Foynes has been targeted and is seen as imminently achievable - once the requisite road improvements have been completed.

At the launch of the 30-year masterplan of Ireland’s second-largest port company

- which has control of marine activity in an area of the Shannon Estuary from Kerry to Limerick city - Minister Varadkar described Vision 2041 as “a realistic, achievable and ambitious plan” which will promote Foynes as “an important asset for the south west of Ireland, and for our national economy”.

Shannon Estuary is the deepest waterway in Ireland and one of the deepest in Europe. Its natural deepwater

offers it a distinct advantage over other ports in Ireland as it can handle the huge supertanker container ships being developed in line with the expansion of the Panama Canal.

Central to the 30-year development plan at the Port of Foynes is the anticipated benefits from a new worldwide fleet of 80,000tonne supertankers, which will define the post-panamax era (from 2015 onwards).

With its natural deepwater

harbour, Foynes is the only port in Ireland which will be able to accommodate these new supertankers and this should lead to a considerable boost in cargo.

Long-term job creation figures for the port are based on an anticipated expansion in existing heavy industries in the Shannon Estuary, as well as planned projects such as the Shannon LNG gas terminal. At the launch of the 30-year masterplan, the Minister cautioned that plans

Vision 2041: HGV activity to triple in Shannon Estuary In February 2013, Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar launched Shannon Foynes Port Company’s 30-year masterplan to develop facilities along the Shannon Estuary, which it aimed at generating 2,000 new jobs and attracting €2 billion in investment. e news – and the promise of significantly increased HGV activity in the estuary - came as a veritable godsend to hauliers who operate in and out of the ports in the region.

46

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Shannon Foynes designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:30 Page 2

Galway - Dublin - Limerick - Tipperary

Wishing Foynes Port continued success for the future and vision 2041 from Fleming Transport – proud distributors for Inver Energy, Foynes

Head Office: 091-590000 Email: info@flemingtransport.com

Shannon Foynes designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:30 Page 3

FOLEY TRANSPORT LTD Chris Foley is proud to be associated with Shannon Foynes Port Company

GENERAL HAULAGE CONTRACTOR

Milltown North, Askeaton, Co. Limerick Telephone: 087 2602043 | Email: theyard@eircom.net

Best Wishes To Shannon Foynes Port Company, From

Old Barna, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick T: 069 62755 F: 069 77220 E: info@barnatransport.ie Best wishes to Shannon Foynes Port Company from Ardcroney, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Tel: 067-38179 Email: jfcahill@eircom.net

FOR ALL YOUR TRUCKING & LIGHT COMMERCIAL REPAIRS & RECOVERY

24-HOUR MOBILE BREAKDOWN SERVICE Call Jonathan 087-9119138

ROAD HAULAGE SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE

O’Callaghan Transport Ltd Wishing Shannon Foynes Port Company All The Best For The Future

Est 1985

Curtainsider | Tipper | Flat Trailer & Moffet Mounty Specialising In Temperature Controlled Haulage Serving The 32 Counties Feenagh, Co. Limerick Telephone: 087 2589036 or 087 6307454

Ward & Ward Ltd GENERAL HAULAGE

Best Wishes To All In Shannon Foynes Port Company

Annaholty, Birdhill, Co. Tipperary Tel: (061) 379268 • Fax: 1890 886817

Mobile: (086) 2541245

Crowley & Keane Proud to be associated with Shannon Foynes Port Company

IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Don’t be left in the dark

www.irishtrucker.com log on to

48

(Sand & Gravel) Ltd. Haulage Plant Hire & Warehousing

Grouse Lodge, Ardagh, Co. Limerick Tel: (069) 60292/60342 • Fax: (069) 60460 Email: evelync@eircom.net

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Shannon Foynes designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:30 Page 4

Shannon Foynes Port Company has a 30-year masterplan in place

not just by the to upgrade the N69 road to Port Company Foynes could be delayed by but by the wider lack of funding but that there region as this was a possibility that the road is a Limerick-Foynes rail line central piece to could soon be re-opened. facilitate our However, there was great plans for very news last September as the significant Chief Executive of Shannon economic Foynes Port Company, Pat growth along Keating, heralded the the Shannon procurement of engineering Estuary. consultancy services for the “We are Foynes to Limerick Road planning to Improvement Scheme as a double tonnage at our ports hugely-significant moment in and anticipate significant job realising the enormous creation on the estuary over investment and employment the next 30 years. We have potential of the estuary. signalled that two key pieces This scheme will provide a of infrastructure are critical for high-quality road to connect this to happen. One is the the Port of Foynes with the regeneration of the rail link to M7/N18 at Limerick. (The Foynes, which we are N69 National Secondary actively seeking to advance, Road currently connects Foynes to Limerick along 32km of single Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar carriageway.) launching the 30-year masterplan Welcoming the announcement by Limerick City and County Council, Mr Keating said that the development of the highquality road between Foynes and Limerick would be a ‘gamechanging’ moment for the port company.

“This commitment is one of the most important developments in the history of Shannon Foynes Port Company.

Its benefits will be felt IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

and the other is the development of a quality road link to Limerick.

“The road link is an absolutely essential piece for us.

We have a huge opportunity to attract investment and industry over the coming decades thanks

t o the advantage that the estuary’s unique deep-water gives us. But we will not be able to deliver on these plans unless there is a quality transport network.

“Heavy goods traffic alone could increase by as much as 350% over the life time of our ‘Vision 2041’masterplan. The N69 is inadequate as things stand, let alone with a tripling of heavy goods traffic.

The development of this high quality road to connect Foynes with Limerick is, therefore, essential.

Otherwise growth will be seriously constrained and opportunities will be lost.

“We cited the importance of this road link when we launched Vision 2041 and to have such a prompt commitment is very

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A 55,000 tonne ship, the Santa Fe, at Foynes Port carrying one of the largest ever cargo of wind turbines to come to Ireland

encouraging.

We look forward now to the selection of a preferred route in 2014, followed by the public consultation process and then on to the actual delivery of the new road.”

Shannon Foynes Port Company facilitates €6 billion worth of international trade at its ports per year, and over a third of the country's bulk container traffic currently transits the estuary.

It handles approximately 10 million tonnes of cargo and this is growing at a rate of around 8% a year.

A new deepwater berth is to be built at Foynes and over 300 acres of extra land will be developed to build new warehousing and facilities.

Shannon Foynes Port Company has held talks with IDA Ireland to attract more foreign direct

50

investment and bring more employment to the entire Shannon Estuary region.

Chairman Michael Collins believes the projected growth is achievable: “With the unrivalled opportunity we have due to our deepwater and emergence of larger vessels, we have a unique opportunity

here that we need to take advantage of. For these reasons, the estuary is one of the jewels in the nation's crown from an investment potential perspective.”

In August, 2013, Shannon Foynes Port Company posted record financial results, which it attributed to an increase in shipping

activity levels not seen since 2008.

It recorded an operating profit of just over €3 million for 2012. The operating profit represents a 6.6% rise on 2011 performance.

“Operationally, it was another very successful year for Shannon Foynes Port Company, which maintained its position as Ireland’s largest bulk port company in terms of tonnage throughput in 2012,” said Collins.

“This is a very strong performance by the port company.”

Shannon Foynes Port Company, Ireland’s second largest port operation, has statutory jurisdiction over all marine activities on a 500km2 area on the Shannon Estuary, stretching from Kerry/Loop Heads to Limerick City.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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The strategic location of its terminals offers access to the vibrant economy and population of a large part of Ireland.

The company provides a variety of services, from controlling navigation and marine safety, to warehousing, logistics and cargo handling.

It handles the largest vessels entering Irish waters, up to 200,000 dwt, and has a track record of continuous growth and innovation. All operations are accredited to ISO9001:2008 by Lloyds Registry Quality Assurance.

The company was formed in 2000, resulting from the merger of the former Shannon Estuary Ports and Foynes Port companies.

SFPC specialises in bulk

cargoes, which constitute more than half the cargoes transiting Irish ports. SFPC accounts for more than 35% of all bulk cargoes in the Republic. Typical cargoes include liquid fuels and chemicals, ores, coal and other energy products, agribusiness inputs such as animal feedstuffs and fertilisers, recyclable

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

materials and various project cargoes, including wind turbines for wind energy projects.

Shannon Foynes Port Company (SFPC) has undertaken the preparation of its 30-year masterplan in order to promote and support the provision of port infrastructure and services in the Shannon Estuary over the

next three decades.

The masterplan looks specifically at growth and expansion options and consideration of non-core assets at its facilities at Foynes Port and Limerick Docks.

SFPC strives to be able to adapt to the c o n t i n u o u s fluctuating business environment that exists and to be able to positively respond to potential i n v e s t m e n t opportunities in the region. It strives to ensure that the Port of Foynes and Limerick Docks will be ready and able to handle larger trade volumes efficiently and competitively when the opportunities arise and, in doing so, realise the economic potential of the natural resource that is the Shannon Estuary.

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Glenard designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:06 Page 1

The family-run business offers private and commercial cleaning as well as winter maintenance services

E

stablished in 1993 by local man James Russell, Glenard Plant has grown to become the largest street cleaning company in Co. Donegal.

Working through the night, the family-run concern quickly set the standard for road sweeping in the NorthWest and surrounding areas,

allowing residents and business owners to wake up to clean streets every morning.

Glenard Plant is a reliable, trustworthy, fully insured and accredited company which operates 24/7 across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It also offers private and commercial

cleaning as well as winter maintenance services. In addition, private home owners can avail of Glenard’s septic tank cleaning service which is carried out by professional and experienced staff. Over the past 20 years, the company has established a tradition of value-for-money and total dedication to

customer service.

“We’re a family-run business employing 11 staff and specialising in environmental cleaning services,” explains Denise McTeague, who is a daughter of founder and managing director James Russell.

“My father had worked for Letterkenny Town Council for

Keeping your environment clean for 20 years For the past two decades, Letterkenny-based Glenard Plant has been providing road sweeping and cleaning solutions to customers on both sides of the border.

CONTACT DETAILS 52

Glenard Plant 60 Tara Court, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Telephone: 074 9124638 Mobile: 086 6025002 Fax: 074 9129740 Email: glenardplant@eircom.net Website: www.glenardplant.town.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Glenard designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:06 Page 2

The Glenard fleet

many years before deciding to set up his own company.

He has enjoyed a terrific working relationship with the Town Council ever since through the contract which sees us sweep the streets of Letterkenny 364 days a year.

“James is joined in the business by my mother Anne, my brother Eamon and I. We have an excellent staff who are very good at what they do. We also have a full-time mechanic who ensures our fleet of vehicles are well maintained and kept on the road at all times. Being a family-run business, we are able to offer our customers a more personal touch and are always prepared to go the extra mile for them. We have a great rapport with the people on the ground.”

Since the recession began, Glenard Plant has had to look more and more to Northern Ireland, where the lion’s share of its business is now conducted.

“About 80 per cent of our work is done in Northern Ireland. We’re only a few miles from the border, so we’re within easy reach of our customers in the North,” Denise continues.

“Like everyone in business, the past three or four years have been very difficult.

Thankfully, we’ve managed to weather the storm so far.

When we do eventually come out of this recession, I think we’ll be well placed to grow and expand our services because we have learned so much from the last few years.”

Glenard Plant’s cleaning services include: road

sweeping; gully emptying; drain jetting; winter maintenance; chewing gum removal; CCTV pipe surveying; power washing; pedestrian walkways; graffiti removal.

Commercial cleaning services are provided for shopping centres, car parks, hospitals, airports, road construction and local authorities. The company also offers power washing, septic tank cleaning, CCTV pipe surveying, road sweeping, gully cleaning and drain jetting to private customers. There is some great power washing offers available for private and commercial properties. It costs nothing to get a quotation.

Three years ago, Glenard introduced its winter maintenance service which is

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Glenard carries out most of its work in Northern Ireland these days

available 24/7 from late October to mid-March. The company provides a complete snow ploughing and gritting service, catering for road, pavement and car park gritting, de-icing and snow removal for homes and businesses. Members of the public can also buy 25kg bags of White Rock Salt at a very reasonable price.

Glenard also offers a night service to businesses where their car park can be checked and gritted so as to ensure

complete safety for employees or early morning shifts. The same service applies for late night shopping.

The company’s day-to-day operations of mechanical road sweepers involve cleaning general litter and leaves, and general maintenance of roads and car parks. Pre-surface dressing preparation of roads, followed on by sweeping of loose chippings after resurfacing by local authorities, is also

These trucks have been a familiar sight on the streets of Letterkenny for 20 years

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Glenard designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:06 Page 3

Continued Best Wishes To Glenard Plant

ROTECH is Ireland’s leading supplier of diesel and lube oil dispensing equipment since 1981 FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Diesel Pumps | Diesel Accessories | Fuel Filtering AD Blue | Grease Equipment | Oil Equipment Water Equipment | Workshop Equipment Hilltown, Killinick, Co. Wexford

T: 053 9135165 E: info@rotech.ie | www.rotech.ie

Wishing Continued Success To Glenard Plant , From

Donegal Commercial Vehicles Ltd T/A McDaid Bros TACHOGRAPH & SPEED LIMITER AGENTS VEHICLE PLATING

24 HOUR RECOVERY SERVICE

Ballybofey Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Tel: 074-9121005 (Day) Fax: 074-9124257 Email: mcdaidbros@eircom.net

Best Wishes To Glenard Plant, From

HOUSES | EXTENSIONS | RENOVATIONS SHEDS | DECKING | LANDSCAPING PROPERTY MAINTENANCE C2 REGISTERED & FULLY INSURED Also Available Road - Sweeping

Gortnalake, Creeslough, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Tel/Fax: 074 - 91 38754 | Edmund: 087-9656977 E: emcteague@eircom.net or dmcteague@eircom.net

Best Wishes To Glenard Plant, From

Continued Best Wishes To Glenard Plant, From

Manufacturing our own range of mechanical sweepers and sweeper-collectors to suit tele-handlers, fork-lifts and tractors.

Suppliers of Replacement Mechanical Sweeper Brushes For The Agri & Road Sweeper Industry.

Neil Donaghy Training provides Safety Training to Construction Workers, Forestry Workers, Factory Workers, Gardeners, Landscapers etc.

APPOINTED DISTRIBUTORS FOR CONOR ENGINEERING AGRI PRODUCTS 39 Drumconwell Road, Lisnadill, Armagh, BT60 2AT, Northern Ireland

Tel: 028 - 3751 1717 ROI: 048- 3751 1717 www.plantmecireland.com Best Wishes To Glenard Plant, From

FARREN ROARTY

Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors Thorn Road, Magherennan, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

Tel: 074-9122177 | Fax: 074-9125084 Email: fr@farrenroarty.com Branch Office Carnmore Rd., Dungloe, Co. Donegal Tel: 074-9522021 Fax: 074-9522030

54

FÁS accredited SafePass, Health & Safety Statements, Risk Assessment, Manual Handling, Abrasive Wheels, Telescopic Handler, Forklift (Novice, Experienced & Refresher), Health & Safety Roadworks, Working at Heights, Basic First Aid and Occupational First Aid.

Safety Training Courses Available in: Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Dublin, Cavan, Monaghan, Longford & Wicklow.

Monglass, Newtowncunningham, Lifford, Co. Donegal CONTACT T: 074 - 9140841 M: 086- 6033927 F: 074 -9140841 www.neildonaghysafetytraining.town.ie E: donaghysafepass@eircom.net

TULLY TYRES

Continued Best Wishes To Glenard Plant

TULLY TYRES SERVICES

We stock tyres to suit all types of vehicles, including earthmoving machinery, commercial and cars. We stock a full range of sizes and tread types to fit all makes and models.

Mulnagung, Lifford, Co. Donegal Tel: 074-914 1495 | E: tullytyres@gmail.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Glenard designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 14:06 Page 4

Glenard was founded

by James Russell

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Glenard Plant Specialists in Insurance Law, Personal Injury, Insolvency Law and Immigration.

Donegal Dublin LK House 331 The Capel Building Port Road St Mary’s Abbey Letterkenny Dublin 7 Co Donegal Co. Dublin T: 074-9168888 T: 01-872 3143 Tel: 1890 989289 E:info@gibsonandassociates.ie

catered for.

Glenard Plant boasts a Ghibili Twin Lance steamoperated machine that can remove gum, graffiti and grime from all surfaces. It is a safe and effective process that ensures complete removal of discarded chewing gum without the use of chemicals.

Glenard’s power washing systems can remove dirt and grime from roofs, concrete and tarmac. Moss and efflorescence removal is also a speciality. The company’s vacuum tankers and jetters can be used in all types of emergency flooding, catering for septic tanks, sludge tanks, wash bays, gully cleaning, drain cleaning, water filter tanks, reservoir tanks, forecourts, off-road jetting as well as household draining cleaning.

Its CCTV camera and jetting equipment is successfully used in pipe surveying, pipe tracing and mapping service, One of the company’s mechanical roadsweepers

and locating blockages.

Glenard has been involved with major tarmac and asphalt companies in numerous road construction and site works projects down the years, including Galway Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport, City of Derry Airport, Belfast International Airport and Carrickfinn Airport.

These contacts involved: rebuilding of runways; core drilling contractors; runway grooving contractors; relining of runways; resurfacing runways; planing contractors.

This included up to four mechanical road sweepers on day and night shifts.

The plant used by the company includes seven road sweepers, a vacuum tanker and a gritting unit. The Russell family has also invested heavily in other equipment such as their chewing gum buster, camera and jetting unit and bowser washer.

Wishing Continued Success To Glenard Plant, From

T.C. Quinn Transport Ltd GENERAL HAULAGE CONTRACTOR

Carrickdawson, Raphoe, Co. Donegal T: 074-9145572 M: 087- 2517047/ 087- 9080280

Best Wishes To Glenard Plant, From

Weekly Refuse Collection Monthly Recycle Collection Skip Hire Weekly Cardboard Collection Rental Of Balers & Compactors

Rossbracken, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Telephone: 074-9154780 • Fax: 074-9157310 Email Address: info@ferrysrefuse.com sales@ferrysrefuse.com accounts@ferrysrefuse.com queries@ferrysrefuse.com

www.ferrysrefuse.com

P. Ferguson & Sons Ltd Solid Fuel & Oil Distributors

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

8 Maple Rd., Coshquin, Derry BT48 ONH Tel: 048- 7126 1366 | Fax: 048- 7126 1351 Continued Best Wishes To Glenard Plant

55

Barrack Hill designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:19 Page 1

P

ossessing unpreced-ented industry expertise and incorporating an armoury of some of the most up-to-date quarrying machinery available, continued development has seen Barrack Hill Quarries invest in the latest crushing and screening equipment in order to process quarried materials even more accurately, whilst simultaneously improving production efficiencies and reducing emissions.

Using their fleet of twelve heavy haulage vehicles (DAF and Scania), the company supplies materials in various sizes for projects large and small.

The materials supplied

range from quarry dust to boulders, either as crusher run or clean stone, including various sized aggregates ranging from 6-150 mm, gabion stone, rock armour, boulders and rubble, as well as the supply of filled sand bags.

Projects catered for include private housing developments, water-sewage treatment works, road construction, sea defences, road construction and a veritable myriad of other projects.

In order to effectively produce and supply a wide variety of stone and aggregate - for such a wide variety of applications - Barrack Hill Quarries has continuously invested in a variety of equipment, from a cross section of the

leading construction equipment manufacturers.

The common denominators for the equipment acquired is that it has to be tough, hard wearing, efficient, minimise negative environmental emissions, possess the highest standards of health & safety and contribute to the overall efficient productivity of the operation.

The range of equipment currently operated includes a range of excavators from 13-100 tonne; dozers; dumpers ranging from one tonne upwards; a

Premier supplier of aggregates, plant hire and contract crushing Since its genesis in January, 1992, Barrack Hill Quarries has played an increasingly-important role in the supply of high quality aggregates and stone to the Irish construction industry.

Irish Trucker dropped into the company’s Dungannon, County Tyrone base and got an insight into day-to-day operations from director Cormac Og McDonnell.

CONTACT DETAILS 56

Barrack Hill Quarries 96 Largyley Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT70 2NX Tel: 028-87758644 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Barrack Hill designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:19 Page 2

tracked crushing and screening train; as well as individual scalpers, screens (double and triple deck) and crushers.

Some of the newest equipment invested in has included the latest innovations from Sandvik Construction’s range of tracked crushers and screens.

Barrack Hill Quarries now operates a full range of Sandvik equipment including jaw crushers (the QJ341), cones (QH331 & QH440) and screeners including the 4-way split QA450 doublescreen.

The latest pieces of crushing equipment added to the Barrack Hill Quarries fleet were two Sandvik QH331 track-mounted cone crushers - a more environmentallyfriendly, economical and efficient machine than its predecessor.

Barrack Hill Quarries Ltd. is a family-run business, which was established by current Managing Director Cormac McDonnell. Starting with just five employees, Cormac’s aim was to use his industry expertise in synergy with the naturally occurring basalt within the quarries in order to provide a source of highquality aggregates for the construction and associated industries. Today, Barrack Hill Quarries – in tandem with its sister company EPL Ltd. employs around 50 people in a variety of roles.

Through EPL’s three plant hire depots, a full

complement of construction equipment is available – mini diggers, excavators, crushers etc., while contract crushing and heavy haulage services are also offered.

The growth the business has experienced is fundamentally due to Barrack Hill Quarries now being regarded as one of the premium aggregates suppliers in Ireland. However, as it has expanded the business has also diversified into related areas such as demolition, recycling, plant hire, civil engineering, crushing and screening contracting.

Barrack Hill Quarries boasts two plant set-ups: a static crushing and screening operation as well as a mobile operation based at the quarry face, which is based around the Sandvik machines.

The founder / MD attributes the success of his company over the last 21 years to sound management and

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

good business practice. “We have always operated a quality driven quarrying operation, but we have been aware of the possibilities that exist in related business areas to not only use our expertise, but also the equipment we own,” he notes.

Despite these diversifications, operations are still very much centred on the original Barrack Hill base, and it is from here that Barrack Hill Quarries sets out to supply gradings of material for uses in various applications throughout Ireland. Recently awarded ISO 9001 accreditation in recognition of its quality management systems, Barrack Hill Quarries has from its inception been geared towards providing the materials required, when they ae needed, and all to precise specifications.

As a result of these exacting standards, the company

counts amongst its clients some of the biggest players within the Irish construction industry including such names as Sisk Construction, Laing O’Rourke, Tarmac UK, Farrans Construction (part of the CRH Group), Graham Construction and Rail Track Ltd., all of whom rely upon Barrack Hill Quarries for the supply of aggregates.

An added benefit of possessing such versatile and productive equipment as the Sandvik mobile crushers and screens has been the ability of Barrack Hill Quarries to provide a wide range of additional services through its sister company, Equipment and Plant Hire Ltd (EPL), which was bought in 1993 and has outlets in Belfast, Ballygawley and Enniskillen.

Thus the company now provides a contract crushing service for Farrans, Pitwood Quarries Ltd and McCormick Demolition, to name but a few, as well as demolition,

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A.A. HYDRAULICS LTD.

Continued Best Wishes To Barrack Hill Quarries, from

For All Your Lubricants, Hydraulic Pipes & Couplings- Powerwash Hoses REPAIR & REPLACEMENT OF HYDRAULIC HOSES

BOSCH BATTERIES & DIGGER TIPS

Unit 5, Ballysaggart Business Complex, Ballygawley Rd., Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT71 7DF

Tel: 028 8772 9272 Mobile: 07818 094914

C.DONNELLY TRANSPORT Wishing Cormac & All At Barrack Hill Quarries Every Success In The Future

Tipper, Artic and Plant Hire

Bulk Excavation | Licensed Land Fill | Sand | Stones | Gravel | Soil etc Tel: 028 3752 3450 | Fax: 028 3752 4114 Mobile: 07801131628 www.cdonnellytipperhire.co.uk 38 Ballyscandal Road, Armagh, BT61 8BL

Congratulations To Barrack Hill Quarries, from

TBF Thompson

33 Carrycastle Rd., Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT70 1PZ Tel: 028 3754 8623 | Fax: 028 3754 8956 Mobile: 07771 962654 Wishing Continued Success To Barrack Hill Quarries, Best wishes to Barrack Hill Quarries

Mallusk: 028 9034 2001 Garvagh: 028 2955 8353 Portadown: 028 3839 3300

DAF DistributorsNorthern Ireland

Continued Best Wishes To Barrack Hill Quarries From

O’Hagan McGlinchey & Co DOMESTIC FUELS | AGRICULTURAL FUELS | COMMERCIAL FUELS 17A Rhone Rd, Dungannon, Co Tyrone BT71 7EN

Tel: 028-87729440 Fax: 028-87750330 e: info@kellyoils.co.uk e: sales@kellyoils.co.uk www.kellyoils.co.uk 58

ACCOUNTANTS & AUDITORS Accountancy • Audit • Taxation

32 Dungannon Rd., Coalisland, Co. Tyrone BT71 4HP www.ohaganmcglinchey.com Email: accounts@ohmcg.com

Tel: (028) 87748133 • Fax: (028) 87747537

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Barrack Hill designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 15:19 Page 4

recycling, muck shifting, site clearance and plant hire, throughout Ireland.

Additionally civil engineering contracting has become an increasingly important part of the business, with the company playing a major role in the construction of the M1 motorway between Dublin and Newry as well as further road construction on the N11 in conjunction with Ascon Road Construction Ltd., building work at Dungannon College and the building of a specialist recycling facility in Lurgan.

To be able to prosper in a highly competitive marketplace in a difficult economic climate requires a business to embrace flexibility, customer focus, commercial acumen and the latest equipment. All of these facets are very much to the fore at Barrack Hill Quarries as they produce the right materials, utilising methodologies and equipment that has driven their costs down whilst increasing productivity.

The 40.5 hectare quarries at Barrack Hill date back some 50 years, with blasting for material carried out once a month, when some 30,000 tonnes is removed. This is taken to the static plant using two 60 tonne Terex rigid dump trucks.

Loading is carried out by numerous machines which are also used to feed the mobile crushers. These include two Komatsu WA470 wheeled loaders; one Volvo L150G wheeled loader; two

Komatsu PC450 hydraulic excavators; a Komatsu PC340 tracked excavator; and a Komatsu PC240 hydraulic excavator.

The static crushing and screening plant is older than the mobile set-up. Material is loaded into a Kue Ken primary jaw crusher with another Kue Ken and a Pegson cone crusher both being used as secondary crushers.

From its own state-of-theart workshop, Barrack Hill Quarries carries out all its own repairs and maintenance in-house.

Looking to the future of this outstanding family business – which is fronted

by Cormac Snr., Cormac Og and Feargal McDonnell – Cormac Og concludes: “We’ve just opened a quarry

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

in Nigeria six months ago, which is a major departure.

We’ve also done crushing in Scotland and England in the past, but there are big opportunities out there and we’ve decided to go for it.

“There has been a slowdown in construction in

Northern Ireland. We are down to about 40% of what we used to do, so the key is to minimise costs and to seek out other opportunities, while continuing to provide the same service we’re renowned for.”

028 8776 7888

INDUSTRIAL GASES | BEVERAGE GASES | BULK Co2 GASES Kelgar has been involved in LPG distribution for over 40 years which has led to the development of the Kelgar Pallets and Trailer system which is currently being used by Calor Gas and other LPG company’s

Delighted To Be Associated With Barrack Hill Quarries

122 Old Ballygawley Road, Eskragh Dungannon, County Tyrone BT70 1TA

Email info@kelgarhaulage.com |

Tel: 028 8776 7888

www.kelgarhaulage.com

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Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 1

Out of this world

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 2

Cavan-based Jupiter Transport (t/a Kolbe Feeds) operates one of the most impressive fleets not just in the local region but nationwide. As has become the norm, the award-winning fleet picked up a number of prestigious accolades in 2013, including Fleet Magazine’s Livery of the Year Award in October. As the company celebrated its 25th anniversary, we caught up with director / transport manager Kenneth McIntyre to discuss the day-to-day upkeep of this truly stellar fleet.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 3

Best Wishes To Jupiter Transport/ Kolbe Feeds

Tractor units with or without tipping gear Rigid Trucks with box body or curtainsider Recovery Truck with Hiab & Winch

INTERPARTS DRUMALEE LIMITED

DAF DEALER, VTN CENTRE & STOCKISTS OF ALL TRUCK & TRAILER PARTS NOW STOCKING ALL GENUINE MERITOR PRODUCTS

Dublin Road, Cavan Ph. : 049-4331777. Fax: 049-4365985 Email : info@interparts.ie After Hours Service: 086-8523620

www.interparts.ie

Continued success to Jupiter Transport/Kolbe Feeds

Continued success to Jupiter Transport/Kolbe Feeds

Continued success to Jupiter Transport/Kolbe Feeds, from

Proud to supply GPS Tracking to Jupiter Transport/Kolbe Feeds Killycramp, Cootehill, Co. Cavan Tel: 049 555 2342. Email: info@duffycommercials.ie

GPS Vehicle Tracking Solutions

Plans start from €17 per month- Installation from €50 per vehicle - No Contracts!

Call us in Mullingar 044-9349587 Check out our website and get in touch today!

www.duffycommercials.ie

- HGV TESTING - LGV TESTING - TACHOGRAPH CALIBRATION - SPEED LIMITER CALIBRATION 8 & 10 Churchview, Cavan Tel: +353-49-4325000 Fax: 049-4325015 Email: info@hla.ie

www.eirtrack.ie

Keep on trucking with IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

62

Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors Principal: Associate:

Congratulations & continued success to Jupiter Transport Kolbe Feeds

H.E. Lennon F.C.A. Tanya McEntee A.C.M.A. T.M.I.T.I

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 4

The Kolbe Feeds perfectly turned-out fleet

Y

ou don’t end up with a spectacular fleet of trucks simply by chance. Purchasing the right vehicles is just the first step on a long, meticulous journey … a journey that never ends.

To maintain your fleet in pristine condition at all times takes an incredible investment of time, money, dedication, attention to detail and patience. To this end, Kolbe Feeds in County Cavan has never been found wanting.

Operating out of Lisaderg, Cootehill, Kolbe Feeds is a family-run business which has insisted on the very highest standards since its inception in 1988. Kolbe Feeds is renowned far and wide for the exceptional appearance of its awardwinning fleet, which currently numbers nine units.

A video of the fleet has been uploaded onto YouTube – just type in Kolbe Feeds – and this four-minute clip perfectly captures the splendour of the McIntyre family’s sumptuous convoy of beautiful yellowand-blue Scanias.

As well as providing Carton Brothers with the highest possible level of service, Kolbe Feeds also delivered on the truck-show circuit in

2013, picking up a number of key awards including Best New Truck at Truckfest in Belfast and Best Combination Truck & Trailer at Mondello Park Truck Show. Add in the Fleet Magazine Livery of the Year award and it was another fantastic year all round – coinciding with Kolbe Feeds’ 25th anniversary.

“We definitely take a lot of pride in the appearance of

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

our trucks,” Kenneth McIntyre confirms. “It promotes your image and promotes your business. Kolbe Feeds was established by my father (John) in 1988 and we have kept our trucks in pristine condition since then to reflect the very high standards demanded by Manor Farm.

“We’ve been working exclusively for Manor Farm for 25 years, which speaks

for itself. Dad was an employee of Manor Farm before setting the company up, so he knew what was expected and we have continued to have a good working relationship with them over the years.”

Two-and-a-half decades to be precise … and the team at Manor Farm could only be delighted with the image of their company portrayed on Kolbe Feeds’ award-winning livery

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Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 5

A fleet of Scanias

the road by Kolbe Feeds on a daily basis. But the time and money that goes into this must be immeasurable? “It is,” Kenneth agrees, “but if you don’t invest back into your company in this line of work then you won’t survive in this industry. You have to keep your vehicles right on the road at all times and promote road safety as a matter of priority.”

Keeping the fleet fresh in vital and, to this end, Kolbe Feeds bought a new Scania P Cab Highline (2012 demo model) with Opticruise in 2013. “We wanted to trial the Opticruise and see what it was like in terms of economy offered. We are happy with it so far,” Kenneth notes.

Regarding the eye-catching and award-winning livery that graces the entire fleet, Kenneth adds: “All our livery is painted by Coyle Complete Ltd. and there are no stickers involved whatsoever. Coyles in Emyvale do an amazing job. Everything is painted onto the truck. The chassis are painted up again every three or four years to prolong the life of the trailers – salt on

64

the roads tends to eat away at the chassis.”

Established in 1994, Coyle Complete is based in Carrickroe, Emyvale, Co. Monaghan. They are an established commercial vehicle paintwork specialist offering the latest cuttingedge technology in vehicle paintwork, working with large volumes of vehicles and giving a uniform and consistently high-quality finish. Attention to detail is

guaranteed on all jobs and they can accommodate any size and type of

vehicle.

Kenneth continues: “All of our trucks are washed and inspected weekly – every Saturday – by our own inhouse mechanic. We do our own servicing on trailers as well as on any of the tractor units that aren’t under contract with McElvaney Motors.

The McIntyres travelled up to the Citywest Hotel on October 10th to collect their

(2014) Livery of the Year award. “It was a good family day out and it was certainly a great honour to be nominated for the award. We didn’t expect to win anything so that was an added bonus. We had a good day - and a good night!

“To win awards like that doesn’t do us any harm. It shows that we keep our fleet clean and fresh and do whatever we can to promote both ourselves and Manor Farm. We would like to think that, when the consumer sees one of our trucks, that

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Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 6

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Jupiter Kolbe designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:56 Page 8

perhaps they might reflect on that when they are considering which chicken products to buy.”

Kolbe Feeds is the trading name for Jupiter Transport.

The company was established by John and Ann McIntyre specifically to provide a specialised distribution service to nearby Carton Brothers, which produces the Manor Farm brand of chickens and chicken products.

Both companies have developed

hand in hand for the past 25 years, Kolbe Feeds essentially collecting feedstuffs from the Carton Brothers mill in Shercock and distributing these to the growers located all over counties Cavan and Monaghan as well as parts of Meath, Longford and Down.

Kenneth is honoured to be associated with such a longstanding and successful company as Carton Brothers: “We deliver to over 150 contracted farmers on their

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behalf and they also employ another 600 people in the region. Carton Brothers was established in 1775 and is one of the longestestablished companies in Ireland. They produce wholly Irish products with full traceability from farm to fork.”

Any plans to add to the visually-stunning fleet in 2014? “We will hopefully expand soon but at the minute we are happy enough to keep going with the nine trucks,” concludes Kenneth.

“We’ll see what the future brings.”

One thing that’s for sure is that more truck show appearances are on the cards – with undoubtedly more cups, rosettes, plaques and trophies to be collected!

“Expect to see us at more truck shows this year and hopefully we’ll continue to bring home the awards. All the awards are on display here in the head office and we still have room for a few more!”

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The superbly maintained fleet at Donoghues of Galway

T

The firm is based in Clarinbridge

here are many coach operators in Ireland and this is a very competitive industry, but for some experience is the key to their success and for this month’s edition of Irish Trucker, we profile one such company that has experience in abundance.

Michael Donoghue & Sons Ltd T/A Donoghue’s of Galway have been

supplying travel requirements to a large customer base since 1966 when Michael Donoghue first established the business. From a one vehicle operation (Volkswagen Transporter) that was used to carry people to the local bingo outings and GAA matches as well as school runs, this business based in Clarinbridge now consists of a fleet of 17 luxurious

A luxury service For many years there was a stigma surrounding bus and coach travel with the general consensus being that it was an uncomfortable way to travel, but as times change, so too has this industry and one that passengers can be guaranteed they will enjoy.

CONTACT DETAILS 68

Donoghues of Galway, Taramuid, Clarinbridge, Galway M: +00353 86 259 6347 T: +00353 91 77 66 77 F: +00353 91 77 64 34 E: info@donoghuesofgalway.com

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Donoghues designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:35 Page 2

Donoghues of Galway are now tour operators

vehicles covering a wide range of services.

Michael’s son Joe and daughter in law Marie now look after the day to day running of the company.

Their dedication to continue Michael’s legacy saw them named the Tour Operator of the year for 2013/2014 at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards last October.

Operating a fleet of modern deluxe Fáilte Ireland 4 and 5 star approved coaches of varying seating capacity ranging from 8-53 and offering facilities such as air conditioning, toilet/dvd, fridge, tables, Wi-Fi and charging ports for laptops, while all

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coaches are fitted with seat belts for the passengers comfort and safety means that Donoghue’s offer the complete range when it comes to coach travel.

“This industry has changed a great deal over the years and all to the passengers benefit. Luxury is now key to the customers’ needs and providing a reliable and efficient service is something that our customers have become accustomed too over the years,” said Joe. “From a safety point of view the Road Safety Authority deserves praise for introducing regulations and checks which mean that vehicles have to be maintained to a high standard.

Clients and customers feel safer knowing that all the right certification is in place.”

As stated, Donoghue’s have a wide range of vehicles to cater for everyone’s needs from coach model 1 which The fleet is continually updated

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Donoghues designed_Layout 1 17/01/2014 13:35 Page 4

consists of 55 seater vehicles fully equipped with all the latest technology to coach model 2; 34 seater coaches with the same amenities. The fleet also consists of mini buses that are 16-seater and have cooler boxes, charging ports for laptops and tables aboard.

When it comes to that special day, Donoghue’s offer a choice of wedding cars including a luxury Toyota Lexus, Mercedes S Class as well as veteran cars with the first two mentioned also being used in a professional capacity to transport business clients.

Joe not only has the experience of working in the family business, but he also worked for some of the country’s most prestigious tour operators including Abbey Tours, CIE International Tours, Celtic Tours and Shrine Tours to name but a few, while he holds Failte Ireland National guide badge.

“I have picked up a lot of experience over the years and from what I’ve learned I’ve tried to implement in the business and ensure that the customers’ are receiving the best possible service from us.”

Joe revealed that they cover all aspects of coach travel and stressed that they were not afraid to diversify when needed. “We have touring coaches, mini coaches and luxury car hire and this covers a wide range of activities.

“School contracts would be our bread and butter and have been since my father first established the business.

We would also do a lot of private work. In the 80’s and 90’s we did a lot of tour market, but the market declined and we then focused more on the corporate sector during the 2000’s and that paid off very well.

“However, over the last few years, we have returned to the tour market and now we offer our own package tours

Luxury travel

which has been going very well. There has been an increase of 15% in the amount of foreign tourists coming to Ireland on a yearly basis and that is set to increase moreover the coming years and it is an area that we want to build on to meet the demand.”

Cost saving is an integral part of the transport industry due to rising fuel prices, but while this is a problem that must be tackled head on, Joe stated that their rates have remained the same.

“We have not dropped our rates, we provide an excellent

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service for many years and we deserve to be paid for it.

The customers know what they are getting when they travel with us and they seem delighted with the service that we provide, which is all that matters at the end of the day,” he stressed.

To ensure that their quality service continues, Donoghue’s bring in two brand new vehicles every year to keep the fleet fresh and vibrant, while they carry our all their own maintenance work, which allows them to dictate when a vehicle is taken off the road.

“The staff at Donoghue’s of Galway are qualified full-time professional drivers, while the depot is situated in Clarenbridge and has a fully operational garage staffed with a mechanic responsible for the constant meticulous maintenance of all the coaches. I’m also a qualified mechanic, so I can help out if the need arises. We pride ourselves on listening to you the customer for your comments and ways in which we can improve and provide you with the best service possible.”

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Ian Hayes designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:37 Page 1

S

The Scania fleet at Ian Hayes Haulage

taying strong and keeping busy, Ian Hayes Haulage has been supplying a top quality service to a large customer base for more than 30 years now.

The haulage trade is a fickle industry with one wrong turn proving costly, but having the type of experience that Ian Hayes' has is priceless in the current climate. For any business to have the longevity that Ian Hayes Haulage has built up over the years, it's a testament to the

hard work and efficient service that they have provided.

When Ian first started Hayes Haulage it was with a single truck. Nowadays they operate with a fleet of seven trucks and he himself has recently made a big investment in a new Scania truck which indicates that things have turned a corner since the downturn of five to six years ago.

“Our fleet is Scania and we’re after investing in a brand new R620 RC which

has only arrived here,” Ian explained.

“When I first started working in the industry, I was driving for different companies and bought a lorry of my own then. We now cover all over Ireland and business for us has really picked up in the last few months, to be honest.

Hopefully, it continues to do so.”

Ian talked about how he has sustained the firm and he tells us about the way the company has been able to diversify into other areas of

haulage, depending on the work out there.

The current economic climate has put many businesses under pressure, some of which, unfortunately have been forced to close down. However, Ian Hayes Haulage are one of the lucky ones as they have a reliable repeat customer base that has been built up through years of hard work and efficient service.

Specialising in the transport of bulk cement, Ian and his team of employees operate

Staying strong Since 1982, Hayes Haulage in Cookstown, Co Tyrone has been a leader in its own industry.

Irish Trucker caught up with company owner Ian Hayes to find out the latest.

CONTACT DETAILS 72

Ian Hayes Haulage 11 Drumnacross Road Cookstown, Co Tyrone BT80 9DT Tel. 028 867 63496 Mob. 07860 410399 Fax: 028 8676 3496 Email: info@ianhayeshaulage.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Ian Hayes designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:37 Page 2

out of the Quinn Cement plant in Derrylin and draw dry powder cement to his biggest customer, Creagh Concrete, Toome Bridge. They also carry out a lot of curtainsider work as well as hauling salt for Salt Sales, Carrickfergus,

to various council depots, both north and south of the border.

To provide all these services, Ian Hayes Haulage has a wide range of trucks on the road, which are all kept in pristine condition and well

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maintained.

Ian admitted that business has slowly being creeping back to the level it was a number of years back, but he has been around long

enough to know how to get through these tough times that have affected everyone in the country. “Things are not too bad at the moment and we're The firm started business 31 years ago

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Ian Hayes designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:37 Page 3

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Ian Hayes designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:37 Page 4

A sparkling Ian Hayes Haulage curtainsider

pleased enough with the amount of work that he have on going at the moment. I suppose it's the same for most companies, who hopefully have seen the back of the recession.

“It is hard to know when the economy will pick up again,

but I think it will be the same for the rest of the year. We just have to tighten our belts and get on with it. We're fortunate to have a loyal customer base that has supported us down through the years,” explained Ian. “This business is hard

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enough to compete in without extra problems. The price of diesel has risen considerably, while the rates have gone down if anything and this has certainly not helped the industry. It is a continuous struggle to keep our heads above water and it is

imperative that something is done about this in the very near future.”

Ian admits that his job is made that bit easier by the fact that he has a hard working staff on the books, some of who have been with him for many years.

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Ian Hayes designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:37 Page 5

He can also call on the support of his wife Florence and son Lloyd, both of whom are involved in the day to day running of the business for many years.

“There are seven drivers employed here and I must say that they are all very good at their jobs. A few of them have been with me for many years and it helps everything to run a lot smoother when you have such experienced drivers on the road.

“They have built up a good rapport with the customers and I generally keep the same drivers working with the same customers as they have come to trust them.”

Having built the fleet up to 15 trucks, due to the

recession the fleet has been reduced to seven, with five full-time drivers. Maintenance is a key part of the business and to this end, Ian revealed that his own mechanics look after all repair work.

“We keep the trucks well maintained as the last thing you want is for a lorry to break down on the side of the road. Downtime is something that we strive to avoid. Our customers want a prompt and efficient service and we aim to provide that.”

With over 30 years of experience in the industry and having built up such a substantial customer base, Ian Hayes Haulage looks set to be around for some time to come through the good times and bad.

“We still have the majority of the customer base that we have had for many years.

We've placed a great emphasis on maintaining what we have and holding on to that.

“We have a very good working relationship with all our customers and as long as that continues then I can see no reason why anything would change.

“Being involved with such reliable companies is a major help at this time. They have a good reputation and we'd like to think that we have a good one too. We're focusing more on the customers and their needs. Hopefully that will get us through the current economic climate.”

This year saw Hayes

The company invests heavily in its fleet

Haulage open a brand new MOT garage at their Cookstown premises, which is yet another indication that things have been moving in the right direction for the business.

“We opened a new MOT garage in March and it has been going well for us,” said Ian. “Hopefully, it will continue to go well and as things improve it will get busier and busier.

“Fuel prices are still an issue. They are still on the high side and that’s why we fuel in the south. There is definitely a difference fueling in the south. The thing is starting to pick up now though. We had to pay off drivers here but hopefully it will turn around.”

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NVD designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:41 Page 1 An aerial view of the Baldonnell compound

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Award-winning transport manager Tim Neville

stablished in 1980, National Vehicle Distribution is Ireland’s leader in vehicle management.

The range of services offered by the company comprises of vehicle distribution; secure vehicle storage; pre-delivery inspections; and body shop services, as well as van conversions and vehicle enhancements.

A family business, owned by the Boland Family, NVD has since its inception continuously strengthened and consolidated its position

as the main supplier of vehicle transport and storage solutions in Ireland.

Accounting for over 125,000 vehicle movements per year, NVD’s transporters operate throughout Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe, providing direct deliveries from factory to dealer. The company also provides a dedicated dealerto-dealer service within Ireland and between Ireland and the UK. The company’s state-of-theart facilities make them the first choice in handling both new and nearly new vehicles.

Car transport; as easy as NVD In October 2013 Tim Neville of National Vehicle Distribution (NVD) was named as Fleet Transport Manager of the Year. We visited the company’s New Ross, County Wexford, base to take a closer look at the day-to-day activities of this extremely-successful, market-leading family business.

CONTACT DETAILS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

National Vehicle Distribution Marshmeadows, New Ross, County Wexford.

Telephone: 051 440440 Fax: 051 440111 Email: info@nvd.ie www.nvd.ie Facebook: NVD National Vehicle Distribution Twitter: NVDtransport

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NVD designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:42 Page 2

Two transporters loaded and ready to roll out of the New Ross HQ

With 75 hectares of secure storage, which is monitored 24/7, NVD has the capacity to hold 35,500 units at its facilities in Rosslare, County Wexford; Ringaskiddy, County Cork; and Baldonnel, County Dublin, all of which service Ireland’s main ports and facilitate vehicle shipments from all over the world.

At NVD, all services are tailored to meet and exceed exact client requirements, guaranteeing the ultimate in flexibility, an effective and efficient service and a wealth of experience that can be depended upon.

Tim Neville became Transport Manager at National Vehicle Distribution in 2011. Commenting on the current make-up of the company’s impressive fleet of car transporters, he states:

“We operate a fleet of 103 transporters at present and we are by far the biggest car transportation company in the country. We have just invested in 25 new trucks, ten of which are new units while the rest are body swaps (new trucks with refurbished trailers).”

This kind of investment demonstrates that NVD are

NVD’s head office in New Ross

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intent on continuing to provide their customers with a stellar service.

As well as offering a secure, professional, prompt and dependable service at all times, NVD also provides the local economy with a massive boost in terms of employment, with up to 200 highly-skilled and fully-trained staff members currently on

their books.

“Of the employees we have at the moment, 95 of them are drivers. We run a twoweek training programme for new drivers joining the company, to get them up to speed with the specific challenge of operating a car transporter. All you need is a HGV licence to start with and we can train the driver from

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NVD designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 11:42 Page 3

there.”

Tim sees encouraging signs that the car market – which has pretty much hit rock bottom in recent years – is starting to show hints of improvement: “The market is recovering from the 2009 dip and there were 80,000 vehicles sold in 2013 compared to57,000 in 2009,” he says. “That’s why we are building the business up again and actively seeking to recruit new staff.”

In terms of looking after their fleet, NVD carry out the vast majority of maintenance work in their own fullyequipped workshop in New Ross, where a dedicated crew of mechanics can be called upon. The vast majority of these technicians have been with NVD longterm and as such understand the equipment fully. As and when required, additional maintenance needs are met by partners in the UK and Europe.

Reflecting on his outright victory in Fleet’s Transport Manager of the Year Award a few months ago, Tim notes: “It was an honour to be nominated and it came as a real surprise to be announced as the overall winner. But it’s a great boost both for myself and for the company.”

Finally, I asked the Transport Manager at

National Vehicle Distribution what his goals for the future are…

“The obvious objective for NVD is to develop the business further and to prepare for the market to improve again on the 80,000 vehicles that were sold last year.

“I believe that 110,000 or 120,000 is a more natural market for Ireland and there is cautious optimism in the industry that we will start pushing towards that. The fact of the matter is that, while people weren’t investing in new vehicles, Irish cars have been getting older and they are going to have to be replaced at some stage.

“We are going to prepare for a better market; unfortunately, we just don’t know when exactly it is going to happen…

“Twenty-thirteen was the first year of the dualregistration system and it will be interesting to see how that develops this year. Last year, with new registrations in July for the first time, we had a quieter May and June than usual and then a much busier July, when we had to work some trucks 24 hours a day on a four-day-on, fourday-off schedule during peak times. It’s going to be interesting to see how that goes this year.”

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Cars in storage at NVD’s spacious Baldonnel compund

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Airporter designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:55 Page 1

Airporter has been in business for 17 years

î “e bus to the Belfast airports For the past 17 years, Airporter has been providing the only direct coach service between Derry/Londonderry and Belfast International and Belfast City Airports. Recently, the family-run concern announced brand new departures and increased frequency as Niall McKeever explains.

CONTACT DETAILS 80

Airporter Airporter HQ, 1 Bay Road, Culmore Road, Derry/Londonderry BT48 7SH. Tel (from Northern Ireland): 028 71 26996 Tel (from the Republic of Ireland): 048 71 269996 Email: info@airporter.co.uk Website: www.airporter.co.uk IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Airporter designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:55 Page 2

Airporter offers the only direct coach service between Derry and Belfast

E

stablished in 1997, Airporter is arguably Ireland’s fastest growing private bus operator.

Providing an hourly shuttle service between Derry and the two Belfast airports, the company will have carried in the region of 100,000 passengers by the end of 2013 compared to just over 4,000 in its first year in business.

For as little as £20 one-way, you can travel in comfort and style between the North-West and Belfast International and or Belfast City Airports.

Operating from Airporter HQ at 1 Bay Road, Culmore Road, Derry, Airporter’s pickup points are: Airporter HQ, Altnagelvin, Claudy (Cross-

roads), Dungiven, Maghera Flyover, Toome and Junction One Shopping Centre.

In addition, the company offers private airport transfers to and from any airport and location in Ireland, and also provides a service to the corporate sector. It is proud to be a member of the FPTNI (Federation of Passenger Transport Northern Ireland) which is a non-profit organisation representing the leading bus and coach operators in the North.

Airporter grew out on an idea the late Brian Smyth had while he lived in Canada. He had originally planned to run a shuttle service between Coleraine and Belfast International Airport. On his return to Ireland, however, the idea of running a service between Derry and the Belfast airports was settled on.

In 2003 Niall McKeever joined his wife Jennifer and her parents Brian and Norma Smyth in the business. Brian passed away five years ago, but the company has continued to go from strength to strength under Niall and Jennifer’s guidance.

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“We now run 13 buses and employ 23 staff. There is a significant cost involved in providing a schedule service, but by providing the only

service of its kind in the North West, our passengers have given us tremendous support down through the years which has enabled us to grow

Niall and Jennifer McKeever

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Airporter designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:55 Page 3

accordingly.

“We have always strived to provide them with the most comfortable, safest and reliable service possible. Our service is also cheaper than travelling by private car when fuel and parking costs are taken into account. It’s 60 miles from Derry to Belfast International Airport and a further 20 miles to Belfast City Airport.”

Niall and Jennifer McKeever are continually investing in the business. In 2009, the Airporter fleet became the first in Northern Ireland to provide a free on board Wi-Fi service. The initiative was formally launched by the Department for Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy.

To coincide with its new 14times daily service, Airporter is taking delivery of seven brand new luxury 16-seater buses from EVM Ltd in Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath.

EVM (formerly KVC) is one of the most respected and trusted names in the mini coach manufacturing industry, specialising in Mercedes Sprinter Minibus conversions.

“In October, we increased the frequency of our daily departures from 10 to 14.

This significant investment will ensure we have the youngest bus fleet in Ireland, equipped with such features as free Wi-Fi and leather seating. Power points will also be fitted at specific seats, so passengers will be able to plug in their laptops or DVD players, or recharge their phones.

“As our fleet will still be Mercedes, we will continue to use Mercedes Mallusk – who we’ve always enjoyed an excellent working relationship with – for our servicing and maintenance needs.”

As well as being the first Northern Ireland-based bus operator to offer its passengers free Wi-Fi, Airporter can claim to be the first in Ireland and the UK to use the internet-based

82

Niall McKeever with some of the Airporter team

Airporter is taking delivery of seven new 16-seater buses from EVM

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Airporter designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 14:55 Page 5

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vehicle management system, Truckfile. Also known as Busfile, it is an easy to use online system for the management of maintenance and the control of compliance. The system provides secure, accurate information and all in one place 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Airporter was also the first company in Ireland to introduce an online real time reservation system which allows passengers to book up to the time of departure. Passengers can book their next trip online at www.airporter.co.uk or call 028 71 269996 to speak to a member of Airporter’s customer service team.

For the privacy and luxury of your own private airport transfer, at a time and place that suits you, Airporter also offers airport transfers direct to your hotel or private address.

Private airport transfers are available to and from any airport and location in Ireland. The company employs professional, uniformed and friendly drivers who will make your journey as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

So when it comes to your travel needs between Derry and the Belfast airports, and much more besides, look no further than Airporter. You won’t be disappointed!

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Kelly Fuels Best Wishes To Airporter From

L’Derry Tel: 028-71 360330 www.kellyfuels.co.uk IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Coolmoyne designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 15:13 Page 1

B

Part of the 17-strong Coolmoyne Couriers fleet

oasting an impressive fleet of 17 vehicles, Coolmoyne Couriers is still one of the leading lights in the courier / transport sector in the east,

south, south-east and midwest.

Established in Tipperary over a quarter of a century ago, the company has forged a strong reputation for itself over the

Tom Cummins prepares to get off with another delivery

decades through providing an excellent service based on quality vehicles, friendly and professional personnel, transparency and reliability.

Today, the company – an efficient, family-run transport solution provider - is fronted

by Bill and his wife Anne, alongside their son Sean (MD) and his wife Siobhan.

Operating out of a prime location in the townland of Coolmoyne, off the main Fethard to Clonmel Road, the headquarters of the operation are just 8km from Cashel and 12km from Clonmel. Other major towns and cities within close proximity include Kilkenny, Waterford, Thurles, Tipperary and Carrick-on-

Suir.

Like so many others in the industry, Bill started from humble beginnings with just one van (a Renault 4, which he quickly traded for a Ford Transit) before gradually expanding the fleet in line with increased demand for his services. The fleet now comprises ten rigids (all curtainsiders; five with taillifts); one box body Transit with tail-lift; one Connect van; one flatbed with HIAB lift; three Iveco vans; and one recovery vehicle.

All the trucks are Iveco, which are bought directly from the main importer, and the Murphys operate their own fully-equipped garage /

Weathering the storm in style To keep one’s head above water is an achievement in itself during the current economic climate. To this end, Coolmoyne Couriers in Tipperary is certainly catching the eye, not alone surviving but continuing to provide an excellent level of courier and transport services to its wide range of satisfied couriers.

Twenty-eight years on from the company’s inception, Irish Trucker visited the family business’ well-appointed Fethard depot and had a chat with personable founder Bill Murphy.

CONTACT DETAILS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Coolmoyne Couriers Ltd. Coolmoyne, Fethard, Co. Tipperary Tel: 052 6131502 Fax: 052 6131505 Email: coolmoynecourier@iol.ie wwwcoolmoynecouriers.com

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Coolmoyne designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 15:13 Page 2

Transport solutions are provided for a wide range of jobs

workshop facility, where all servicing, maintenance and repair solutions are provided in-house.

Many of the drivers have been on the company’s payroll for a number of years, offering experience and continuity and also ensuring that the high levels of service and dependability never drop.

Though the recession has made life very difficult for virtually all businesses in Ireland– no more so than in the transport sector – Bill Murphy is pleased to report that Coolmoyne Couriers is tipping away and keeping the show on the road: “We are surviving and I suppose that’s all you can

people in a job at the end of hope for at the moment,” he notes. “We’re by no means each week: “It is for sure, as busy as we once were, but especially with the price of thankfully we haven’t had to diesel, which is a real ballmake anybody redundant. breaker. We keep the fleet in We’re running a tight very good nick and we get the operation and have had to become more Every effort is made to provide customers with a complete service efficient across every facet of the business.

We employ a team of 15, providing a light haulage service covering everywhere south of a line from Galway to Dublin.”

Bill agrees with my observation that it’s an achievement in itself just to keep the show on the road and to keep 15

best out of our vehicles.

“We’ve actually made a conscious decision not to buy modern vehicles because of all the electronic problems they can present. I find that a

Coolmoyne Couriers operates an impressive fleet

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Coolmoyne designed_Layout 1 20/01/2014 15:13 Page 3

Parked up ... but not for long!

seven-year-old vehicle is much more straightforward and works better for our purposes.”

Looking to the future, Bill admits that he isn’t going to be getting carried away or lose the run of himself. In the times that are in it, the sum of his ambition is as obvious as it is modest: “To survive.

That’s all you can aspire towards. There’s no point in looking beyond that. If we can continue as we are until the tide turns, then we will be happy with that.

“We like to deliver from A-B ourselves, with Coolmoyne Couriers, the buck stops with us and we will take full responsibility for all our deliveries and continue to deliver them ourselves in person.

“We treat every consignment as if it is our own. I don’t want to start giving our customers’ packets to somebody else, who perhaps won’t mind them as

well as we do. We have been doing this for 28 years and we still have customers from 28 years ago, so we must be doing something right…

“Our only goal is to look after our customers. They are the most important people in the world to us and their goods are the most important things in the world. We treat them as if our lives depend on it.”

Customers will also be encouraged to hear that the

Ready to hit the road again!

consistency and continuity that has epitomised Coolmoyne Couriers since 1985 will remain very much part of the company fabric: “Driver-wise, they tend to do their jobs well and stay with us, the longest-serving member of our crew has been here the best part of 25 years.” Bill concludes..

“Each driver has his own dedicated run and they would have built up strong personal relationships with the

customers on that route.

Everybody at Coolmoyne Couriers knows exactly what they are doing and we are here to provide our customers with solutions around the clock, morning, noon and night.”

Did I mention flexible? A willingness to meet customers halfway has been at the forefront of the Coolmoyne Couriers business model since day one.

Coolmoyne Couriers has been providing an exceptional service since 1985

Best Wishes To Coolmoyne Couriers, From

Tel: 061-333614 Mob: 087-2455156

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Wishing continued success to Coolmoyne Couriers from McCarthy Insurance Group

Contact us for your haulage insurance quote O’Neill Crowley Quay, Fermoy (025) 31199 fermoy@mig.ie • www.mig.ie Charles McCarthy Insurances Limited t/a McCarthy Insurance Group is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

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A1 designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:10 Page 1

A

recent survey revealed that only 15% of the haulage industry comprised of

In 2009, the company went limited

A truck is loaded for delivery

women, generally looking after the administration side of the business, while only 2% were drivers.

The percentage of women owners could be even lower as few have decided to enter this male dominated industry,

A1 Transport was established 13 years ago

although Irish Trucker caught up with one that has and she not only owns her own haulage company, but she is also very successful.

Anna Richmond has turned many heads within the haulage industry over the last 13 years as A1 Transport Ltd has developed a secure place in the market during the intervening years.

As we all know the haulage industry is one of the toughest sectors to be successful as there are more overheads in this line of work than any other. Rising fuel costs, low rates and insurance have left many hauliers struggling to survive.

Anna’s decision to become involved in the industry was a courageous one to say the least as not only was she in a minority, being a female, but she was only 22 years of age when she first established the

When the going gets tough 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.

One company has turned that stereotype on its head.

CONTACT DETAILS 88

A1 Transport 19 Killynick Road, Agholane, Derrylin, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh BT92 9HJ Tel: 028-6774 2770 www.a1transportltd.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

as s ago

A1 designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:11 Page 2

Scania is the preferred choice of truck for A1 Transport

business. So the first question to ask the Fermanagh native was, why?

“I became interested in trucks when my dad purchased articulated livestock trucks when I was a teenager. He had a female truck driver and I would go out on runs with her as often as I could. It sounds crazy but I got a bit of an adrenalin rush out on the open road!

This was where I got extremely interested in logistics and Transport and the beginning of my very turbulent relationship with trucks. When everything is going well I love them and if things are going wrong I hate

them,” stressed Anna.

“One day I made the decision that I was going to start my own haulage company and I have to admit that it was extremely difficult.

It was hard to get people to take me seriously when I approached people for business and to get the funding needed. Eventually without giving up I got the business off the ground and thankfully I haven’t looked back since.”

Anna started off with just three trucks on the road and decided to concentrate on general haulage, serving the whole of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

All vehhicles are well maintained and kept in pristine condition

In October 2009, the Derrylin based company went limited and these days Anna has 15 trucks on the road as well as 50 curtainsiders and a service van leaving her to look after an extensive fleet of trucks and trailers.

“I generally go for Scania and DAF, which are generally bought from McIlvaney’s and A&M Commercials. We would keep the fleet well maintained in order to avoid downtime and ensure that deliveries are always made efficiently and on time.

“We provide a daily cross channel service to and from Ireland and England, offering a 24 and 48 hour delivery

service. With a dedicated team on hand, who are flexible and able to adapt to customers specification.

“The fleet is all equipped with GPS tracking as well as a fleet management system, so we can track any vehicle and inform the customer of their exact location.”

Anna has learned that customer satisfaction is the number one target on a daily basis and she admits that this is something that they are always working on.

“We work closely in partnership with our customers, tailored with a personalised approach that meets individual needs,

The A1 logo is well recognised thoughout the north

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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A1 designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:11 Page 3

Wishing Continued Success To A1 Transport

36 Doohat Rd., Derrynoose, Keady, Co. Armagh BT60 3HE T: 028- 3753 8532 F: 028- 3753 8800 Dublin Road, Castleshane, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan T: (00353) 047 -85908 | F: (00353) 047- 85335 Unit 2, Clayton Rd., Risley, Warrington WA3 6PH Tel: 01925 811188 | Fax: 01925 811181

K R Truck Rental BEST WISHES TO A1 TRANSPORT

4X2 and 6x2 tractor units available for self drive hire

Cavan Road, Clones, Co. Monaghan

047-20500 086-222 8426

Contact Karol

Continued best wishes to A1 Transport, from

Continued success to A1 Transport Continued best wishes to A1 Transport

Northern Ireland Office 1st Floor 8 New Row Coleraine BT52 1AF T: 028 7032 7800 F: 0845 0099118

Republic of Ireland Office Ground Floor, Unit 2 Galway Technology Park Parkmore Galway T: 1890 702800 F: 091 482 960

www.fuelwise.ie

Best Wishes To A1 Transport, from

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature Contact Barry on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923

90

www.coylecomplete.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A1 designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:11 Page 4

which is essential to today’s environment.”

Not only has the company its headquarters in Derrylin, but they also have a base in Preston, Lancashire and Anna believes that their locations are key to their success.

“Our head office is located in Derrylin which is an ideal location from which to direct our logistical operations. Not only is it close to the borders between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, but is halfway between the major cities of Belfast and Dublin.

This means that we are able to utilise all the major ports and shipping companies that links Britain and Ireland.”

Anna has picked up a lot of experience over the past 13 years and stresses that keeping the overheads down is one of the key areas to help survive in this industry.

Because of my passion for the trucks it took me some time to learn to focus on the business and treat the trucks as equipment to provide the high quality of service that we strive to produce every day. I stress that keeping overheads down and maximising equipment are key areas to survive this industry.

Even though the main aim is to concentrate on providing an efficient service to their loyal customers, Anna admits that they are always on the look out for new business and ways to expand the services that they provide “We will 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. Attracting new business is always a priority and hopefully through the service that we provide, we can do that.

“I’m fortunate to have a reliable, experienced workforce both here and in Preston and together, they have played a huge part in the success of the business and I am looking forward to continue working with them.”

A convoy of A1 trucks hit the road

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The company has depots in Fermanagh and Preston, England

Anna has worked hard to build up the business

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Commercial designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 12:32 Page 1

T

Stuart and Willie at Commercial Spare Parts

here aren’t too many businesses across the country to have found themselves benefiting from the current economic climate, but Commercial Spare Parts are one of the few.

Based in Portadown, Co Armagh, Commercial Spare Parts specialises in supplying replacement parts and the relining of brake shoes for trucks and trailers in the area.

Established on April 1, 2005

by Graham Sergeant, the company has grown and recently moved into a new

The staff play a vital role in the success of Commercial Spare Parts

premises which is double the size of their original location, which is no doubt a positive indication of how they’ve been coping lately.

“Basically, we supply the haulage industry with truck parts. I always worked in connection with the haulage industry and I was 10 years in the business before I started this company,” explained Graham.

“Business at the moment is very, very good. There aren’t a lot of haulage companies buying new trucks. They are repairing and refurbishing

what they have which suits us just fine.”

While business is in a good state at present, Graham also points out that it’s a competitive market out there at the moment, but one that sees him and his competitors getting along nonetheless.

“It’s a very competitive business to be in at the moment,” he said.

“We actually have a really good working relationship with our competitors and often work alongside them.

Right now we’re working with the likes of DAF, NI trucks,

Mercedes Trucks and Vans and Volvo.”

Brake re-lining is also carried out in the workshop where old-core shoes are stripped, blasted, cleaned, resprayed and re-lined in a modern environment ensuring customers of a professionally presented end product for their fleet.

So if you find yourself in need of a specific type of vehicle part to complete work on the lorry that you are repairing and are perhaps you running low on your stock of axle parts and want to

Bucking the trend Coming up on a decade in business, Commercial Spare Parts in Portadown have been thriving in this economic climate. Irish Trucker found out why from the company’s proprietor Graham Sergeant.

CONTACT DETAILS 92

Commercial Spare Parts Unit 8, 127 Mahon Road, Portadown, Co. Armagh BT62 3SF Tel: 0800 0257004. www.cspni.co.uk IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Commercial designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 12:32 Page 2

Some of the stock

make sure that you don’t run out, Commercial Spare Parts is the company for you.

Whether you are working on a commonly seen or more specialised type of vehicle, it can be frustrating when you don’t have the part that you need, costing time and money for you and your customer. Commercial Spare Parts holds a vast range of truck parts for all of the major brands including DAF, Scania, Iveco and Volvo, Mercedes, Renault and MAN. In the middle of last year, Commercial Spare Parts established a working relationship with United Aftermarket Network (UAN) for the supply of key commercial vehicle components. Over the past 12 months UAN has seen strong growth in in the sale of replacement truck parts approaching some 10%, outstripping other areas of the automotive aftermarket.

“We have developed a very good working

relationship with UAN and they have opened many doors for us in the sourcing of new product lines.” said Graham.

“We got on well with the UAN team from the moment we started working together.

The truck and trailer market here in Northern Ireland is very competitive and so we appreciate the help and support we receive from them. UAN understand the CV replacement parts market and constantly add new

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

products which helps us grow our market share.”

Commercial Spare Parts are one of a burgeoning group of over 30 UAN members in the UK specialising in the supply of CV replacement parts. UAN can now claim to be the buying group with the largest number of dedicated CV factors.

“Commercial Spare Parts are proud to be a commercial distributor for UAN,” explained the company’s

CEO. “They are based in the west midlands in the UK and it was them that approached me first and I haven’t really looked back since that. Two of the biggest agents that they have are Baldwin Filters and Lumag for brake pads and linings.”

Along with being a member of the UAN, the company are also a part of the Federation of Small Businesses and ensures their customers of a quality service and providing them with all spare parts. These include brake re-lining service, brake drums, discs and pads, air springs, air brakes, clutch, axle parts, turbos, oil filters, air filters, hydraulic filters, lighting and mirrors.

At the minute sales

have

been

going

strong, despite the economy,

so

if

bucking the trend and

thriving in the tough times has been the

protocol these last few years for Graham and

his

staff,

he

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Commercial designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 12:32 Page 3

IF YOU NEED A SPRING GIVE US A RING!

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Wishing Continued Success To Commercial Spare Parts, From

CV Airbrakes are one of the market leaders in the supply of remanufactured and new copy airbrake.CV Airbrakes have always looked to expand its range and now supply a range of truck and trailer brake calipers, repair kits and automatic slack adjusters.

Unit B6, Paragon Way, Bayton Road Ind. Est. Exhall, Coventry CV7 9QS

T: +44 (0) 2476 362523 | F: +44 (0) 2476 367694 E: enquiry@cvairbrakesltd.co.uk www.cvairbrakesltd.co.uk

NORTH BELFAST SPRING WORKS 2 Cosgrave Street, Belfast Best Wishes To Commercial Spare Parts

Commercial Spare Parts

94

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Commercial designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 12:32 Page 4

intends on continuing to do

so into the future.

With 2013 having been such a positive year, Graham is hoping for more of the same in the next 12 months.

“We want 2014 to be as good as this year for us. We would be happy with that,” he said.

“I would like to thank my own staff for their dedication and our suppliers and customers, as well, for sticking with us. We have obtained a lot of loyal customers down the years and hopefully we can continue to do so.”

“We still have these customers because of the hard work and dedication we carried out in the last eight years and hopefully we can continue to do that.”

Commercial Spare Parts

There is a vast range of parts for all the major truck brands

are wholesale stockists and distributors for a wide range of truck and trailer parts. They supply trade and end user

companies across UK and Ireland. Next day delivery is offered on all parts.

For details of product

ranges and brand stocks customers are asked to contact the main depot in Portadown.

The firm was established in 2005

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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McAdoo designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 14:56 Page 1

P

The trusty McAdoo Transport fleet

roviding an excellent service to a trusty core of long-term customers, McAdoo Transport Ltd is a resounding success story; a prominent presence on the roads of the North East – and sometimes beyond - for almost four decades. The company will mark its 39th anniversary in March, 2014 and founder Allan McAdoo says he has few, if any, regrets: “Most of the time it has gone well, but the nature of this game is that you will have

ups and downs,” he notes.

“April 13th, 1975 was the day we drew our first milk into Monaghan from Maudabawn Co-Op for Monaghan Creamery and we are still working for them today.”

Expanding on the genesis of the company, the fonder continues: “My first truck was an Atkinson with a 180 Gardner engine and a sixspeed gearbox. It cost me around £8,750 in old Irish punts. I drove that until 1978 and then sold it and bought a Hino. In ’79, I bought a

Dennison and we put a second truck on the road for the first time.”

The growth experienced has been organic. Allan was never one to just buy a new lorry for the sake of it… “We built it up slowly and steadily,” he confirms. “We took on more work in 1986 and we started to buy Volvo to coincide with that. We’ve been buying Volvos ever since.”

Some things have changed over the year. But a lot has stayed the same. Especially

in terms of the work McAdoo Transport does and the clients served: “We’ve drawn milk for Monaghan Creamery since ’75 and we’ve been drawing sand for Wrights Quarry Products since ’79,” Allan explains. “We’ve been working for David Patton Ltd. since the early 1980s and started working for Leonards Engineering in Ballybay in the mid-80s.

“All these contracts are long-term and they are all great people to work for.

Monaghan Creamery has

Loyalty the key for McAdoo A little loyalty goes a long way in any line of work, the transport sector being a clear case in point. To this end, Monaghan-based family business McAdoo Transport Ltd has placed a major emphasis on loyalty and continuity since its inception in 1975 and this has served them well down through the years. Irish Trucker dropped into the company’s Swann’s Cross HQ and got an insight into the history of the business as well as day-to-day operations from affable father-and-son team Allan and Gary McAdoo.

CONTACT DETAILS 96

McAdoo Transport, Swann’s Cross, Rockcorry, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan T (042) 9744810. Mobile: 086-8051199 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McAdoo designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 14:56 Page 2

The immaculate 2011-reg Volvo FH Globetrotter is a welcome addition to the McAdoo Transport Ltd. fleet

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

been our mainstay and they are a pleasure to work with, as are Wrights, Pattons and Leonards.

McDonnells Commercials have also been a constant in the business and we actually bought one of the very first Volvos he sold back in ’86.”

Of course, like the rest of the haulage sector, McAdoo has not been untouched by the economic downturn. At the peak of the Celtic Youknow-what, in 2007, Allan was overseeing a fleet of twelve. This is now down to a more manageable, streamlined six and the McAdoos are keeping the show on the road in style:

“It’s a family business with myself and my wife May, my son Gary and his wife involved,” Allan concludes.

“Gary has been driving since he was 19 and is a big part of the set-up now. I worked as an agricultural contractor myself for 13 years after leaving school [at the age of 15, in 1962] and have been self-employed ever since.

“Since 1985, we haven’t employed less than ten people at any stage, so we are doing alright. Nearly all of our drivers have been local and I’d like to put on the record my thanks to all our employees, current and past, for the role they have played

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McDonnell Commercials (Monaghan) Ltd DISCOVER THE COMPLETE NEW RANGE

T: 047-83588 E: Info@mcdonnellcommercials.ie

Visit us at Urblekirk, Dunraymond, Monaghan Website: www.mcdonnellcommercials.ie

All makes of lorry, trailer and bus parts supplied

ABS & EBS fault recognition and diagnostics

BEST WISHES & CONTINUED SUCCESS TO ALL AT MCADOO TRANSPORT

Continued success to McAdoo Transport, from

Leonard Engineering (Monaghan) Ltd. STRUCTURAL STEEL ENGINEERING GENERAL ENGINEERING

Old Tannery, Coolshannagh, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan Tel: 047-81092. Fax: 047-84313. Email: info@leonardeng-monaghan.com

www.irishtrucker.com

98

WRIGHT QUARRY PRODUCTS LTD

SUPPLYING CONCRETE MATERIALS TO THE AGRICULTURAL AND CONSTRUCTION SECTORS FOR OVER 50 YEARS Swann's Cross, Rockcorry, Co. Monaghan, Ireland Phone: +353 42 974 4811. Fax: +353 42 974 4940 Email: info@wright.ie

www.wright.ie

Continued best wishes to McAdoo Transport IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McAdoo designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 14:56 Page 4

Gary and Allan McAdoo oversee a strong, long-running concern

in the success of the business.

“The industry has been good to us but, having said that, I think it’s sad that there is no Government assistance whatsoever for selfemployed people.”

A fair point: the very people who contribute most to the economy in terms of enterprise, vision, energy and creating employment are essentially treated as second-class citizens, with no recognition of their immeasurable contributions to society.

Instead, the tax man comes back for more and more by the year but I suppose in fairness the fuel rebate will make a difference when it comes in.”

The founder’s son, Gary, is transport manager at McAdoo Transport Ltd., a company which specialises in general road haulage and bulk haulage. An only son, Gary admits that he took to the family business like the proverbial duck to water!

“I’ve been involved here all my life,” he notes. “I

Allan and Gary McAdoo stand by the McAdoo Transport fleet

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Continued Best Wishes To McAdoo Transport

started driving in ’95 but have been around the place literally since I’ve been able to walk. I got my license aged 19 in ’93 and I’d been driving trucks in the yard since I was 11. I’ve always had an interest in the business.”

Any signs yet of the third generation of McAdoos preparing to take over the baton? “I have one son, Morgan, who is eight and you never know. He is not that interested so far and while it would be nice to continue the tradition, there is no pressure there,” Gary explains.

The family unit is completed by daughters Elvie and Faye and wife Stephanie.

Regarding the precise nature of the work carried out, Gary explains: “We draw a lot of milk and also sand and gravel, bulk cement, cattle feeds and mixes, steel, peat, sugar beet and some fertiliser and coal. It’s general haulage and we will draw anything.

“We operate a fleet of six but have just bought a new second-hand

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McAdoo designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 14:56 Page 5

2011-reg Volvo FH Globetrotter – the first time since 2007 that we’ve been able to purchase a new truck. At the moment, we haven’t decided whether to sell one of the older units or whether to increase the fleet size to seven.

“We also have a minibus and my father does school runs in the mornings and evenings and works in the office during the day.”

Gary echoes his father’s sentiments by pointing out that McDonnell Commercials has been instrumental in the success of the business down through the years. “They look after us extremely well – maybe too well,” he states. “We purchase any new lorries off them and they also handle all of our maintenance and repairs.”

In addition to Allan and Gary, McAdoo Transport employs eight people full time as well as some part-time staff. “We were up to 14 lorries in the 90’s and then back to 12 in the 2000’s and kept busy up until 2009, but unfortunately things went a bit quiet after that. But we’ve recovered well and are busy enough at present. However, it’s day-to-day in the haulage business and that’s how you have to take it.”

Flexibility is important. So is integrity. “My phone is always switched on and you have to be ready to work anytime, day or night,” Gary reveals. “We are also very honest and up front. Our word is our bond. We name a price and stick to it because we know our costs.

“It’s not easy to hold onto your work with competitors trying to move in and cut your rates but we are fortunate to be working for some very loyal companies who have stood by us. We have always tried our very best to provide a good service and we like to think we have achieved this. Our customers have treated us well anyway and we are very thankful for the ongoing work.”

Looking to the future, Gary McAdoo concludes: “We’ll keep at it. We’ll keep our heads down and try to maintain a positive outlook. Things have definitely improved so hopefully there are better days ahead for everybody.”

Company founder Allan McAdoo makes sure the books are in order

A family portrait, from left: Faye, Elvie, Allan, Morgan and Gary McAdoo

Wishing Continued Success To McAdoo Transport

John Bogue Limited Monaghan 047-75500 www.johnbogue.ie

100

Anderson Auto Electrics Best Wishes To McAdoo Transport, From Cornawall, Smithboro, Co. Monaghan

Commercial & Agricultural Electrical Repairs Accessory Fittings & Servicing

Special Offers On Fitting Of Kelsa Bars, Spots, Worklamps, LEDS etc

Contact Stephen 086-8097065 Email: andersona.e@hotmail.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

truck news designed copy 2_Layout 1 22/01/2014 11:53 Page 20

Irish Ferries MV Epsilon

Irish Ferries commences new direct Dublin to Cherbourg service

On Saturday, 18th January 2014, Irish Ferries will inaugurate its new direct weekend car ferry service between Dublin and the French port of Cherbourg. The new 19-hours service will be operated by the passenger car and freight ferry vessel Epsilon which the company acquired recently under a charter arrangement. Sailings will depart from the Ferryport terminal in Dublin at 15.30 hrs on Saturday and will arrive in Cherbourg at 11.30hrs on Sunday morning. It will return to Dublin later that day, departing Cherbourg at 17.00hrs arriving back in Ireland on Monday morning.

Third Route Option The introduction of the new Dublin to Cherbourg service gives holidaymakers travelling into and out of Ireland a third route option, augmenting, as it does, the company’s services from Rosslare to Cherbourg and Rosslare to Roscoff. Timed to arrive in Cherbourg early enough to facilitate easy onward travel to campsites and holiday centres throughout France, the new service is expected to prove popular with families and hauliers alike.

On board Epsilon, the once-weekly, year round service will offer a more limited range of cabins and passenger attractions when compared with those on board the company’s cruise ferry Oscar Wilde which will continue to service routes from Rosslare to Cherbourg and Roscoff as before.

Bringing access to European motorways into the heart of Dublin city, the new service will extend the appeal of a motoring holiday in France to an even wider market. For those living in the northern half of the country, it eliminates driving to Rosslare and cuts the motoring time and cost involved.

MV Epsilon Built in 2011, the Epsilon has capacity for 500 passengers. Modest facilities on board include a bar, cafeteria, self-service restaurant, 68 two and four berth cabins all with TV, free wi-fi service and 2,860 lane metres of vehicle deck parking space.

Commenting Irish Ferries head of passenger sales, Dermot Merrigan said ‘our new Dublin to Cherbourg direct service will appeal to those living within and beyond our capital city. Fast access straight through the city or from the Dublin Port Tunnel ensures that our new Ireland – France service will be more accessible to all.’

Fares and offers for this new Dublin to Cherbourg service can be viewed on the Irish Ferries website www.irishferries.com.

When not operating on the Dublin to Cherbourg service, Epsilon will sail between Dublin and Holyhead increasing Irish Ferries services on the route to a maximum of twelve sailings each day.

IRISH FERRIES – HISTORY RECORDED IN NEW BOOK Irish Ferries and the story of its involvement in the development of passenger and freight ferry services between Ireland, UK and Continental Europe is the subject of a new book entitled ‘Irish Ferries – An Ambitious Voyage’ being distributed by Easons and sold through bookshops around Ireland.

Written by noted marine historians Miles Cowsill and Justin Merrigan - and published by specialist Isle of Man publishers Ferry Publications - the 150-page hard-back production traces the path that the Irish Ferries organisation has taken from its very earliest days operating services on the Irish Sea between Ireland and Britain under the B&I Line flag.

Detailed and comprehensive, the book goes on to chronicle the development of direct ferry services between Ireland and France and the role played by Irish Continental Line before that company and B&I line came together in the early-1990s to form the enlarged enterprise known today as Irish Ferries.

Covered in some detail is the ship building and modernisation programme carried out by the company which resulted in the commissioning of four new vessels for the company’s Dublin – Holyhead and Rosslare – Pembroke routes, including the cruise ferry ‘Ulysses’ which, at the time of its launch, was the world’s largest car ferry.

Amply illustrated with pictures drawn from various private and company archives, the book is one that will appeal to all involved in shipping and maritime history.

DHL Express awarded “Best in International Logistics”

DHL Express, the world’s leading international express services provider, was awarded “Best in International Logistics” for a second consecutive year, by Chambers Ireland and InBusiness magazine, at the InBusiness Editor’s Choice Awards 2013. DHL Express received the award in recognition of its ongoing commitment to service excellence and in particular its investment and focus in staff, through its ‘Certified International Specialist Program’.

Hosted by Chambers Ireland, Ireland's largest business organisation, and Ashville Media, publishers of InBusiness magazine, DHL Express, along with 21 other award winners, was selected by the editorial team of InBusiness on the broad criteria of growth, profile of business, range of services offered and customer services.

“It gives me great pleasure to accept this award on behalf of all the team in DHL Express Ireland”, said Mike Farrell, Operations Director, DHL Express Ireland. “2013 has been a tremendous year for DHL Express Ireland, in which we have focused strongly on training and motivating our people through our ‘Certified International Specialist Program’ while continuing to reach new heights in providing great service quality to all our customers.” Farrell added “What a way to end the year but to receive such a prestigious award that recognises the efforts of the entire team.”

Joseph O’Connor, Editor, InBusiness Magazine, said: “Despite some stiff competition from other recognised companies in the field, this is the second consecutive year that DHL Express has won an InBusiness Editor’s Choice Award for Best in International Logistics. For me they are worthy winners, having demonstrated in 2013 their ongoing commitment to service excellence though their continuous investment in their staff, while never losing sight on growth, thus further increasing their market share.”

He added: Although Ireland's export performance has been somewhat subdued in 2013, DHL Express continues to work hard to make Ireland the ideal base for companies who export to their customers. Coupled with this, they offer great support to firms taking their first steps into the export marketplace which is something certainly worthy of recognition.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Thompson designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:39 Page 1

Thompson Fuels was set up in 1968

Six decades of success First set-up back in 1968, ompson Fuels has established itself as one of the leading independent fuel providers in Northern Ireland. Irish Trucker spoke to one of the company’s newest employees Lorraine Megaw to find out more.

CONTACT DETAILS 102

Thompson Fuels 49 Market Street, Tandragee, Co Armagh Northern Ireland BT62 2BP Tel: 028 3884 0045 Email: Sales@ThompsonFuels.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Thompson designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:39 Page 2

F

rom hauliers buying diesel to homeowners ordering kerosene, the price of fuel has increased considerably over the last couple of years but at Thompson Fuels in Co Armagh they’ve still been ensuring the lowest prices for their customers.

A family-owned company with over 40 years of experience in supplying oil, coal and gas throughout Northern Ireland, Thompson Fuels provide a reliable service with top quality products which enables them to meet all their customers' needs and requirements.

Since February of last year, Lorraine Megaw has become part of the team at Thompson Fuels as the company’s accountant. In her 12 months at their Market Street address in Tandragee, Co Armagh Lorraine has quickly slotted into the routine which has seen Thompson Fuels providing a top quality service for what seems like a lifetime now.

“Our headquarters is in Tandragee, and we have four depots in Craigavon, Banbridge, Belfast and Fintona,” she explained.

“David, Mark and Aaron Thompson are the three

directors here. The company has been established since 1968 and we currently have 33 employees.”

In testing times like these, having experience in the industry can give businesses the edge over their competitors. To this end, there are not many that can match Thompson Fuels, who have been supplying a top quality service to their large

Some of the team at Thompson Fuels, from left: Lorraine Megaw – Accountant, Cheryl Ewing, Sam Matchett, Syrena Holland and Ethel Purdy

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

customer base for over 40 years now.

Thompson Fuels have witnessed many changes in the industry over the years and their ability to move with the times has been one of the reasons that their longevity is increasing by the year.

In a previous interview with Irish Trucker, director David Thompson explained that Thompson Fuels do their best “to accommodate the customer regardless of what they are looking for”.

David also revealed that the main services supplied have not changed over the years and prompt delivery is one of the keys to their success.

David's father set up the business in 1968 and initially the main focus was coal delivery, a service that they continue to provide until this day. However, ten years after the genesis of Thompson Fuels, the fuel delivery service was expanded to include oil.

Lorraine sums up what they are all about today, explaining that coal delivery, in particular, has become a focal part of the business after some recent hard winters.

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“We are an independent fuel provider which supplies commercial vehicle companies and domestic customers with diesel, oil, gas and coal,” she said.

“When the business was first set up back in 1968, it was set up as a coal delivery company and since then the Company has expanded. The winter so far has been pretty mild but despite this our sales have continued to and as a result we have an additional

two brand new lorries on the road to cope with the extra demand.”

As well as the fuel delivery service, Thompson's also provide oil tank replacement; emergency run out services; oil suction and transfer service; mini tanker services; gift vouchers; gas cash and carry, sight gauges; special oil tank locking devices; oil watchman; emergency run out drums and coal cash and carry.

IVAN MEGAW & SON

Company headquarters are in Tandragee, Co Armagh, but their customer base goes far beyond that area as depots in Craigavon, Banbridge, Belfast and Fintona mean that Thompsons are supplying fuel in four counties at the very least.

From their four main offices Thompson’s offer a full range of services. Their customer base would expand to a 20mile range from each depot

A new tanker before the Thompson Fuels livery goes on

and they do their utmost to maintain a same day delivery service.

There’s no argument that people are far more aware of the prices these days than they were a few years back, so Thompson’s try to ensure that they are always competitive in regards to their prices, while they are continuously looking at ways to improve the business.

For Lorraine, the success of Thompson Fuels has come

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Thompson designed_Layout 1 22/01/2014 10:40 Page 4

down to three people in particular.

“The success of the company has come down to the brothers’ knowledge of the business,” she stated.

“We have a stable customer base which continues to increase and our staff look after our customers very well, which is of utmost importance to Thompson Fuels.”

With such an extensive customer base, Thompson’s are very conscious of the fact that a large fleet is needed to ensure that all deliveries are made on time.

The company operate a modern fleet of 17 lorries, all tankers are fitted with weights and measures approved sealed meters and they collect their own oil from the port in Belfast. All of the drivers are very experienced as indeed are all the employees. The drivers are representing the company on a daily basis and meeting the customers and Lorraine feels that they are fortunate to have such reliable staff.

All of Thompson’s maintenance is subbed out and they know that it’s important to keep the fleet well maintained as time is of the essence in this particular industry.

“Most of our trucks are DAF and our most recent purchases were two LF55 250 automatic 15 ton tankers built by Morrow’s of Lisburn” said Lorraine.

“Our vehicles need to be up to speed with industry

Office staff pictured with David Thompson, from left: Cheryl Ewing, Syrena Holland, Ethel Purdy, David Thompson and Sam Matchett

regulations and modern technology. As we outsource all vehicle maintenance, Morrow’s was the obvious choice for us with their knowledge of the business and excellent engineering skills.”

Should things go according to plan, you can expect to see Thompson’s adding to their fleet again in the not too distant future.

For now, however, the hopes are to keep bringing in new customers and stay strong until the recession passes.

“We hope to continue increasing our customer base. We are always looking for new ways to improve the business. Recently we began offering oil tanker replacements.

“Most of the staff have

Best Wishes To Thompson Fuels, From

worked here a long time, which is very positive and there is a great sense of teamwork and customer care as we endeavour to keep to our motto of MORE SMILES PER GALLON.” In September, Thompson

Fuels proudly presented a cheque for £3,744.07 to Henry Middleton for the street kids in Mexico. Staff at Thompson Fuels would like to thank everyone who sponsored them on their 10 mile walk in aid of the charity.

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Bolands designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 15:00 Page 1

B

the years and

we are grateful to

Bolands have been Ford dealers since the mid-sixties

three generations

the business and he outlines

back

to the early 1920’s when the family first ventured into the car

said John.

Irish Trucker, we speak to

traced

dealership

business.

However, it was in 1966 that

the business took a new direction when John and

James Boland took on the

Ford dealership and the have been main dealers in the South East ever since.

For this month’s edition of

our

customers,”

oland Motors can

be

all

Boland Motors have built a

John about the success of

reputation for providing a

the services provided by the

to their loyal customer base,

New Ross based business

that has seen many changes

in the motor industry over the years. Boland Motors Main

Ford Dealer is now one of the leading

car

and

light

reliable and efficient service

many of whom have been

with them for a very long time and John admits that it has

taken a lot of hard work to get to where they are today.

“We

always

put

the

commercial sales business in

customer first and that is

only VTN centre in New

to do. We would have built up

the south-east as well as the Ross, Co Wexford.

something that we continue

a lot of repeat custom over

Since 1982,

when

vehicle

testing was introduced in Ireland, Boland Motors have

incorporated VTN testing into the list of services that they

provide and they are one of a

network of centres around the country that are appointed by

the Road Safety Authority.

Every commercial vehicle in

the country has to be tested on an annual basis.

“We would have been one

of the first if not the first VTN

Continuing to service the South East Boland Motors has been providing a range of top quality services to a large customer base for many decades and their dedication to continue doing so is a testament to the hard work that this family run business provides.

CONTACT DETAILS 106

Boland Motors New Ross Waterford Road, New Ross, Co. Wexford Phone: 051 421403 info@bolandmotors.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Bolands designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 15:00 Page 2

There have been many changes to VTN legislation over the years

centre in the south east.

Boland Motors have invested heavily in their premises

testing has proven a vital

There have been a lot of

part of the company’s

changes to the legislation

progression. Boland’s are

over the years, and we’ve

available to carry out tests

had to incorporate those

on vehicles (Tuesday to

changes into the testing.

Saturday 9am to 5.30pm)

There are three lanes, two

five days a week. Also, if

for heavy goods vehicles

they find that something is

testing and one for light commercial

wrong with a particular

vehicle

testing.

vehicle at the VTN test stage;

“Mary Dempsey, who

usually offer the option of

years, runs the test centre

repairing the fault on the

and she has done a great

same day and re-testing

job for us over the years.

on the same day.

There are three testers in

adjoining

service department can

has been with us for many

working

their

Customer’s don’t want

that

their vehicles off the road

we are always kept busy.”

best to have them back

department and thankfully

for long and we do our

Boland’s operate from a

operating as quickly as

purpose built state-of-theart

test

centre.

development

of

The

VTN

A car goes through a VTN test

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possible.”

In the past few years

there

has

been

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107

Bolands designed_Layout 1 21/01/2014 15:00 Page 3

increase in the volume of commercial vehicles for VTN testing and Boland’s also specialise in related services such as tachograph calibrations and installations and weights and dimensions plating, ADR testing and safe loading checks on petrol spec vehicles.

"These days there are far more commercial vehicles on

the roads and so we are kept busy all the time. Our valued

customers have helped us greatly by recommending us to

others. There is always potential to develop a business like this.”

“If a vehicle undergoing a test is found to be in need of

minor repair work, we will assist in anyway we can, we also supply tyres and w/screens at competitive prices.

In

addition to VTN we have a fully stocked parts department,

“mainly for Ford vehicles” and out services also include panel beating where we have recently installed a spray booth and oven, where repairs are all carried out to Ford Standards.

Five years ago, John and his son Seamus, who helps him

run the business on a daily basis, built a new showroom on their premises on the Waterford road as they continue to move with the times.

“The new showrooms were built five years ago and it is a

modern premises that can house an array of new vehicles.

The sales end of the business is going reasonably well

after a couple of quiet years. We deal with Ford Finance

which is available for new and used cars and commercials.

Customers are certainly more price conscious than they were in the past and you can understand why, but we are focused on helping them in any way that we can.”

With so many years’ experience in the motor trade John

knows what his customers want and through their wide range

of services Boland’s are determined to meet their requirements for many years to come.

Rossiter Best Wishes To Bolands Of New Ross/ Wexford VTN, From

Bolands of New Ross have been performing VTN testing since 1982

Best Wishes To Bolands of New Ross/ Wexford VTN From

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