Irish Trucker magazine July 2011

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BRENNAN INTERNATONAL

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DENIS DONOVAN TRANSPORT

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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O’MALLEY TRANSPORT Leading independent live fish transport company In Ireland

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Providing an unrivalled commercial vehicle service

Fax: (046) 9241926 ISDN: 046-9248197 e mail: contact@lynngroupmedia.com

CORK CITY FORD CENTRE

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Cork City Ford P20

GEORGE MULLINS TRANSPORT Specialising in the transportation of bloodstock

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LYONS EUROPEAN LTD Reputation for providing an efficient and reliable service

ISSN 0791-993X

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TERRY LILLY COMMERCIALS Setting very high standards

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Causeway Pallets & Transport P36

CAUSEWAY PALLETS & TRANSPORT Doing everything to the highest standard

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JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN AUSTRALIA Diesel & Truck Mechanics and Fitter jobs

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A1 BATESY SKIP HIRE LTD

Brennan International P47

Specialists in the hiring of a wide range of skips

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BRENNAN INTERNATIONAL Offering customers an extensive international transport service

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

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

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MCDONALD RECOVERY Family run business operational for the last three decades

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COILLTE

McDonald Recovery P52

Harvesting & Logistics Manager Mark Carlin

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ROAD TANKERS ARMAGH One of the leading tanker manufacturers in Ireland and the UK

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LYONS & BURTON Established since 1977

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DENIS DONOVAN TRANSPORT LTD Providing a top class service for nearly 50 years

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CLASSIFIEDS

Denis Donovan Transport P72

The Co. Mayo company has been in business since 1988

O’Malley Transport the live fish transport specialists F

ounded in 1988 by Peter O’Malley and his wife Carol, O’Malley Transport has firmly established itself as the leading independent live fish transport company in Ireland.

Starting out with one truck transporting live fish throughout the The family-run business is well-known for its reliable service

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country, Peter has since expanded his fleet and haulage services. As well as specialising in live fish transport, O’Malley Transport offers a general haulage and fuel delivery service. This thriving family-run business is known far and wide for its quality, reliability, value-for-money and total dedication

to customer service.

“While we are best known as live fish transport specialists, there is more to the business than meets the eye,” explains Peter and Carol’s son Kenneth O’Malley, who is a driver with the company.

“Because live fish transport isn’t a year-round business, we couldn’t confine ourselves just to that so we also decided to offer general haulage and fuel delivery services. We operate three trucks – two Scania and a DAF – and have five drivers between full and part-time. We are fortunate to have a strong and loyal customer-base. I’d say 90 per cent of business is repeat.”

With over 20 years experience in transporting live fish, O’Malley Transport offers an unrivalled service in this particular field. Audited approved by Marine Institute Ireland and Freedom Foods UK, the company works closely with clients to IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

As well as having the distinction of being Ireland’s largest independent live fish transport company, O’Malley Transport in Newport, Co. Mayo also provides a top-class freight service. Kenneth O’Malley explains more.

accommodate their fish movements by road to any destination throughout Ireland, UK and Europe. O’Malley Transport prides itself on having the most up-to-date equipment and vehicles for transporting live fish in Ireland.

“We mainly transport live fish within Ireland and the UK, but on occasions we also transport to the Continent. We did a run to Austria recently. When you are dealing with live fish, you are restricted on the amount of time you can have them in transport,” Kenneth says.

The fish are checked before, during loading, and on leaving the site of departure. Air is distributed to the fish tanks via oil-free air compressors. The in-cab oxygen monitor display shows clearly the oxygen levels in each tank on the vehicle during the journey. This is controlled automatically to the preset level by solenoid valves.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

All of O’Malley Transport’s drivers are highly experienced in live fish transport and can advise on stocking densities depending on water temperatures, fish type and size. The drivers will also carry out a series of manual checks during transport. In the case of longdistance journeys, two drivers are supplied to reduce journey times.

All of the company’s equipment is disinfected before and after any movement of live fish using steam cleaner and virkon disinfectant. All vehicles are covered by 24-hour

O’Malley Transport was set up

by Peter and Carol O’Malley

breakdown throughout Ireland, UK and Europe.

Equipment used includes: dual oxygen systems on each trailer (one in operation and one back-up system in case of failure; custom manufactured

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Wishing Continued Success To O’Malley Transport From

Curraun Blue Ltd Doughill, Mulranny, Westport, Co. Mayo.

TYRES • ALLOY RIMS WE STOCK ALL MAJOR TYRE BRANDS OPEN 6 DAYS • MON-FRI 9-6 SAT-9-5 Golden Mile Industrial Estate, Breaffy Road, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Telephone: 087 2858758 Email: curraunblue@eircom.net

Best Wishes To O’Malley Transport

COAL IMPORTERS COAL WHOLESALERS Aghilly, Buncrana,Co.Donegal T: 074 9321896 F: 074 9321896

www.coylefuels.com

Continued Best Wishes To O’Malley Transport From

Patrick J. Durcan & Co. SOLICITORS

Westport, Co. Mayo • T: 098 25100 F: 098 26110 American St., Belmullet, Co. Mayo • T: 097 20524 Spencer St., Castlebar, Co. Mayo T: 094 90 24840 F: 094 90 24240 Dublin Office: 24/26 Upper Ormond Quay Email: admin@patrickjdurcan.ie

WOULD

TOGHER TYRES Tel: (094) 9023531 Fax: (094) 9023992 Email: toghertyres@eircom.net

Best Wishes To O’Malley Transport Continued Best Wishes To O’Malley Transport, From

Johnson Manufacturing Ltd SUPPLIER OF FUEL & AIR PRESSURE TANKS TO TRANSPORT INDUSTRY 100, 60 & 40 It air tanks in stock & Some Fuel Tanks Moneen Road, Castlebar • Telephone: 094 90 23755 Email: sales@johnsonmanufacturing.com www.johnsonmanufacturing.com

Best Wishes O’Malley Transport From

Sean Kelly Commercials Ltd Dealers In All New & Used Commercial Vehicles Also Diff Repairs New & Second Hand Lorry Parts Available PSV Preparations • Brake Testing Equipment 93 Corryglass Road, Trillick, Co. Tyrone T: (028) 8956 1403 From ROI 048 • M: 07751 675 133 Email: shanejkelly25@hotmail.com

YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS MAGAZINE

Call BARRY now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923 18

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

O’Malley Transport specialises in live fish transport

self-draining fibre glass tanks with 8” Mucon valves for easy unloading.

Each valve has a sleeve which will fit into most outlet pipe sizes; Point Four Oxygen System providing in-cab monitoring and automatic oxygen level control; Ample oxygen with automatic changeover valves; oil-free compressors for aeration; on-board disinfection system.

Based on the Mulranny Road, Newport, Co. Mayo, O’Malley Transport is ideally located to serve the needs of fish producers situated along the West coast. The company has an excellent working relationship with Derrylea holdings in Cliften and Marine Harvest on nearby Clare Island, which is the biggest producer of salmon in the country.

In addition, O’Malley Transport can deliver full-load freight consignments to any part of Ireland, UK or Europe.

The company operates a number of curtain-siders, flat-bed trailers and box vans. In this regard, its main customers include Allergen Pharmaceutical in Westport and a number of builder providers in Mayo.

Kenneth argues that fish farming could be a much bigger industry in Ireland if it was promoted and encouraged more by the Government.

“It could be a massive industry if it wasn’t for the amount of red tape associated with it. It could create thousands of jobs, but the Government don’t seem to see the potential that’s in it,” he laments.

Like all haulage companies, O’Malley Transport hasn’t been immune from the recession with Kenneth admitting IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

that rising fuel costs have put a massive strain on the family-run business.

“The price of diesel is killing the industry,” he claims.

“And it’s frustrating to think that there is no-one in the industry prepared to stand up and say ‘stop’. When politicians were making their promises before the General Election, there was hardly a mention of the predicament transport companies currently find themselves in.

“We’d love to upgrade our trucks, we’d love to be able to expand, but we can’t do that at the moment. We have enough work to keep us going, but like a lot of companies, are working to survive. Hopefully, things will pick up

soon and, from our point of view, more emphasis is put on fish farming.”

Kenneth concludes by praising O’Malley Transport’s drivers for their contribution to the company’s growth.

“They have played a huge part in the success of our company over the years. They are excellent at what they do and can always be relied upon to do a good job.”

For more information about O’Malley Transport, contact 09841300 (telephone and fax) or 0862578763 (mobile). Website: http://www.omalleytransport.com Email: info@omalleytransport.com

The company also offers a general haulage service

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Dedication to excellence In September, Cork City Ford Centre will celebrate five years in business.

But this is no overnight sensation – the Nolan family has been synonymous with Ford for over 50 years and Cork City Ford Centre puts all that experience to optimal use, providing an unrivalled commercial vehicle service down south.

Cork City Ford is a thriving business

I

t was a new beginning for Ford in Cork. When Cork City Ford Centre threw open its doors in September, 2006 it signaled a new level of service and customer focus to the Ford car and van market on Leeside. Now, with a proven track record, it is their intention to continue delivering a high level of service to both new and existing customers for years (and generations) to come.

Chairman Eddie Nolan is the retired former chairman and MD of Ford Ireland, so it would be an understatement to say he boasts a

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wealth of knowledge and experience of the motor industry – and the Ford marque in particular. Eddie established Cork City Ford Centre in conjunction with Cormac Hughes of South Dublin Ford Centre almost five years ago; in July 2009, Eddie and his son John Nolan (General Manager) took the business over. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more professional Ford team anywhere in Ireland, as John confirms: “My father joined Ford in 1958, so it would be fair to say he knows Ford inside-out.”

With John now also on board in the

family business, the long Nolan family association has been brought into the next generation. Visitors to Cork City Ford Centre will be impressed by the high level of customer service and tempted by the great offers on all new and used vehicles, with a great range of services provided to both new and existing Ford customers. Thousands of customers have already found this out for themselves, and Cork City Ford Centre continues to radically change and improve the Ford experience in Cork.

Cork City Ford Centre has IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Eddie Nolan (Chairman) and John Nolan (General Manager) of Cork City Ford Centre

established itself as one of the biggest Ford dealers for new and used Ford sales in Munster, servicing and parts. Great low rate finance deals can be arranged for new and used Ford vehicles in the resplendent Ford showrooms on the city’s Airport Road.

As well as an excellent range of passenger cars, all of which are household names – the superb new Mondeo; the spacious sevenseater Galaxy; the bestselling Focus; the clever and roomy C-Max; the versatile seven-seater S-Max; the trendy new IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Fiesta; the funky new Ka; and the stylish Kuga - Ford also offers the best range of commercial vehicles available to the Irish van driver. The Ford Transit has been the most popular van in Ireland for years and Cork City Ford Centre stocks the all-new Ford Transit Van as well as its hugely successful sibling, the Ford Transit Connect Van. The smaller Fiesta Van or Fiesta Van Sport are ideal for tradesmen, while Transit Chassis Cabs – available in short, medium, long and extendable frame wheelbases – can handle just about any job, as can the Ranger, Ranger XLT or Ranger Thunder. The Tourneo Connect and Transit Tourneo Bus complete a comprehensive commercial fleet.

A vibrant urban motor dealership, Cork City Ford Centre was the first all-new Ford dealer to open up in Cork for twenty years. Services include new and used car and commercial van sales, car and commercial servicing, a full range of Ford parts and accessories, tailored finance packages including contract hire, leasing and hire purchase, vehicle valets and car and van hire (short- and long-term).

As John points out, the commercial vehicles side of the business is a real priority at Cork City Ford Centre: “It’s very important to us and it’s an aspect of the business that we’re anxious to grow. The Transit and Connect business is vital and we have forged strong ties with many local businesses.

So far, 2011 has gone well. Van sales were up 100% for the first quarter. As we establish the business more and more, we are experiencing an increased volume of commercial sales and that is encouraging.”

What does John see as the main selling point of Ford commercial vans? “Obviously, the Transit is a strong brand and Ford vehicles have an excellent reputation, but at the end of the day the thing people are most conscious of at the moment is price. To this end, we are trading very All your LCV needs will be catered for

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Pristine Ford’s on display

aggressively to secure the best possible price for our customers. After that, we offer a very good back-up service. We go out of our way to provide a holistic service as opposed to just a van.

“The price of the Transit has gone down significantly and we have cut our margin to reduce that price as far as possible. As vehicles get older, they become more expensive to run, so there are a lot of merits to replacing older vans with new ones – mainly to reduce down the maintenance costs. The main problem seems to be getting credit, but once owners can get their hands on the money, it makes sense to drive a new van.”

Cork City Ford Centre prides itself on its aftersales service. Whether or not a vehicle has been bought from them, they ensure that its maintenance will be as hassle-free as possible. As modern vehicles deploy

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increasingly-sophisticated technology, it is essential to avail of the best servicing technology and skills to ensure their smooth, efficient operation. Cork City Ford Centre have invested in the latest diagnostic technology and have highly skilled and expertly trained technicians to ensure that all cars and vans continue to operate in an efficient manner.

Looking to the future, John Nolan is upbeat: “We’ve pushed the business

during one of Ireland’s worst ever recessions but we always felt that we had a strong franchise and that there was potential for a Cork-based Ford dealer backed up by a man with vast experience of the industry. When we started, the market was twice the size of what it is now but we have managed to remain efficient and profitable.

“We employ 16, which we are proud off and would hope to increase this number as our business grows. Our technicians participate in ongoing training courses in conjunction with Ford and out sales staff also undergo continuous development. So we have very experienced and skilled staff throughout all facets of the business.

“Our aim is to grow organically and in line with the market as it recovers.

We want to continue to develop an excellent reputation and to grow the business in a steady fashion as opposed to an aggressive manner.”

One gets the distinct impression that this exciting dealership will be here for a long, long time.

Cork City Ford Centre- Continuing the Ford tradition in Cork.

Forge Hill, Airport Road, Cork Tel: 021 4315650 Fax: 021 4966399 Email: reception@corkcityford.ie

Cork City Ford Centre on Forge Hill

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To Cork City Ford Centre, From

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Tel: 021 450 4602 Mobile: 087 2222927 Email: exos@eircom.net

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For All Your AUDIT, TAXATION & CORPORATE FINANCE NEEDS 6 South Bank, Crosses Green, Cork Tel: (021) 4319844 • Fax: (021) 4319711 Email: welch@welchco.ie

Wishing Cork City Ford Centre Continued Success In The Future From

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Full Diagnostics / Full Car Servicing / Exhausts / Brakes Shocks / Clutches / Tyres / Batteries / Tracking Free Pre NCT Check / Free Tyre Check / Free Battery Check Lube Service From €65

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www.exhaustshop.ie Tel: 021 4314242 Fax: 021 4317835 23

‘Driving’s the easy part’ George Mullins Transport is represented at Sales in Ireland, UK and France all year round, specialising in transporting bloodstock to and from all major sales and racing venues. Irish Trucker got an update from Managing Director, George Mullins, to find the latest about the Carlowbased company.

George Mullins Transport is in business over 22 years

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

W

hen it comes to the transport industry, there are fewer businesses tougher to be in than the haulage game and for over two decades now George Mullins Transport in Bagenalstown, Co Carlow have continued to make it work.

Providing a service to all sectors of the equine industry, George Mullins Transport aims to provide a prompt service at very competitive prices while putting the horses needs first. For those who wish to transport their own horses, ie racehorses, showjumpers, eventers, they provide a service to assist with paperwork and can provide competitive ferry rates available all year round.

“We’re based here in Closutton, Banglestown, Co Carlow and we’re established over 22 years,” explained company MD, George Mullins.

“We’ve 13 full-time full time employees and transport solely horses. We bring horses all over Europe and attend all the major sales in England and France. We go to Italy and France every week. Recently we moved one of the most valuable Showjumpers in the world called ‘Libertina’.” who has come home to Ireland to retire.

Given George Mullins’ lineage it isn’t surprising that he pursued a career closely linked to the Irish equine industry. His father, after all, was leading national hunt trainer Paddy Mullins, while his brothers Willie, Tony and Tom and sister Sandra all hold trainers’ licences.

George has been involved in horse transportation since the early 1980s. Initially he began driving for his father, before establishing George Mullins International Horse Transport, a company he has run successfully.

George Mullins International Transport specialises in equine transport in the broadest terms covering Ireland, Britain and most of Europe.

“We would move horses from all over Ireland to all over Europe and vice versa,” he confirmed. “National haulage would represent about 10 per cent of the business. The rest would be international. We cover the UK, Italy, Germany, France and Spain, but we go where ever the work takes us,” he continued.

The company garners significant work on the back of Ireland’s booming bloodstock industry. “We would bring in an awful lot of brood mares for covering by Irish stallions. When they foal, we would bring them back to their own country. That would represent a significant part of what we do.”

“We would also do a lot of airport work, many horses fly around the world from Ireland, so we would either take the horses to the plane or collect them from it”.

While he had an unusually hectic period in the build up to this summer, George explained that the company’s busy season extends from September through to December.

“There would be a lot of thoroughbred sales at that time of year. Thousands of horses would go over and back to England to be bought and sold in Sterling,” he revealed.

The four-day Cheltenham Festival is also another busy time of the year for George Mullins International Transport. Over the years trainers’ requirements have become all the more demanding.

“Five or 10 years ago, we would load up all the horses on Saturday night and head over on the boat.

Because of the threat of disease and so on, trainers are hiring the truck for the week and bringing over just IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

their own horses. Trainers are now becoming loathe to mix the horses,” he commented.

“You might think the whole occasion is glamorous, but there is nothing glamorous about it from our point of view. A trainer could be preparing a horse for 12 months and find the horse has a temperature on the morning you are set to depart. The racing end of it is a precarious game,” he confessed.

The George Mullins fleet of seven trucks is comprised of Volvo, Scania and MAN, with the emphasis heavily on the Scandinavian marques.

“Fuel has gone up 40 per cent in the last few months and it is really hard for a lot of companies, but I suppose you just have to keep going,” he said.

“In our fleet we’ve three Scanias, three Volvos, a MAN and a little Renault 2 stall truck, which acts as a feeder to the big trucks.

“We would never do any repairs of our own, The main dealers would carry out all repairs and services to the fleet.

“Our customers just won’t accept break downs. We are operating in a very time sensitive business. The welfare of the horse comes first at all times. Therefore, we leave maintenance and repairs to the experts,” he explained.

Equine transport is a million miles away from any other sector of the haulage industry. In that light George concedes that his crew of drivers are first and foremost horse-lovers, who happen to be experienced truck drivers.

“Obviously they would have to be experienced drivers or I wouldn’t entertain them, but they also have to have a love of horses. We moved a horse recently that was worth well over £1 million. That is why you need people, who are experienced in handling horses as well as driving. We would

George Mullins Transport is based in Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow

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George Mullins Transport specialises in equine transport, covering Ireland, Britain and Europe

always have two drivers to each according to George. truck,” he added.

“Our drivers are very adept at moving In truth most truckers would look on the horses as smoothly and as equine transport as a vocation, rather comfortably as possible. Over the than a job. It takes a special type of years, we have had only minimal driver, according to George. “It is injuries,” he said. tough going. There is no hiding that George puts great store in presenting fact. You have to put the well being of the fleet in pristine condition. In that the horse ahead of yourself at all light each truck is washed and times,” he elaborated. disinfected after every trip, with Unusually George would have a special emphasis on the interior of the number of lady drivers on his books. horsebox. “It is part and parcel of the “I employ a few female drivers, They drivers’ job to clean the truck,” he would be as equally as good as the acknowledged. men. Primarily they would have a love The company employs a five-year for horses and would have served replacement policy for all vehicles. their time driving horses all over “We would never keep them beyond Ireland. The European work is five years and we trade them in after probably more attractive and is four if at all possible. I find it is certainly better paid,” he added. cheaper to make the repayments on “I have 2 full time girls in the office the truck than pay the maintenance,” which is the nerve center of the he elaborated. business, bookings come largely from In that vein George sells his trucks our website and by calls directly to the privately rather than through trade-ins. office, the office organizes all of the “I actually sold a truck recently to one of my competitors. He was going to loads from which truck is being used get a truck somewhere, so it might as to booking drivers, ferries, stabling well have been from me,” he quipped. also collection times/delivery times. If The trucks’ bodies are built by a horse is being moved to most EEC countries there is also additional paperwork that must accompany each horse.

It’s a hugh part of the business and we have someone on call 24 hours a day. Its an easier job driving the lorries than trying to organize the loads”.

Over the years George and his team have developed an enviable reputation with regard to caring for the horses in their charge. It is one of the company’s Some of the day to day work that strongest selling points. The goes on in the Bagenalstown base skill of its drivers is another,

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horsebox specialist Joe Cahill in Graignamanagh in Co. Kilkenny.

“I work closely with Joe,. he has been building bodies for me for the past 15 years or so. They are a built to a very high specification and tailor made to suit our requirements, strength and safety are the most important aspect in building the bodies for us” he said.

All trucks are fitted with large capacity fuel tanks and cabs have all the extras to, “Rome for example is an eight-day trip. So you have to make the truck as comfortable as possible.

They would all be fitted with air conditioning, air seats and all the latest equipment.”

The quality of the company’s drivers, quality of equipment and a reputation for prompt delivery and collections set the company apart from the competition.

“Customers can set their clocks by us. Price doesn’t really come into it.

Getting the horse from A to B, injury free in a timely manner is what it is all about,” he concluded.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To GEORGE MULLINS VEHICLE TESTING NETWORK

CAHILL HORSEBOXES Manufacturing Truck Bodies, Horseboxes & Specialist Vehicles Since 1939 High Street, Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny T: 059 9724201 E: cahilltruckbodies@eircom.net www.cahilltruckbodies.ie Best wishes & continued success to George Mullins International Horse Transport

E.S.C. Commercial Test Centre & Mount Leinster Transport Corries, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow

Tel: 059 9723050 or 059 9721853 Email: escvtn@eircom.net

K.D. (GARAGE) SERVICES LTD. Best Wishes & Continued Success To George Mullins

FOR THE BEST DEAL ON WHEELS Upper Patrick St., Kilkenny Fax: (056) 7761289 Email: sales@tctyres.com www.tctyres.com

FOR INFORMATION ON OUR RANGE OF TRUCKS PLEASE

CONTACT KEITH

Scania and Mitsubishi Trucks Tel: (053) 91 45554 Rosslare Road, Drinagh, Wexford • www.kdgarage.com

Best Wishes & Continued Success To GEORGE MULLINS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Lyons European calls Moira hoem these days

Lyons’ roar to success Operating a successful business within the haulage industry is by no means an easy task, especially in the current economic climate that has seen diesel prices escalate, while rates have nose-dived considerably leaving it a turbulent time for all involved.

T

hese are tough times, but for many it's just a case of knuckling down and working harder than ever. One such firm that has adopted that policy is Lyons European Ltd and we speak to managing director Gary Lyons about the services that the Armagh based company supply to its vast array of customers.

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Specialising in the delivery and collection of goods between Ireland, Britain and Europe, this wellestablished firm has built a reputation for providing an efficient and reliable service to a large customer base.

Gary set up the company in 1997 and as the client list grew over the years so too did the business and from their original base in Lisburn,

they moved to another premises in the Armagh town, before finally finding their 'home' at purpose built premises on the Derrynahone Road, just outside Moira, eight years ago. With plenty of storage available and workshop facilities, Lyons European Ltd; the business is more advanced than many of its competitors.

Specialising in general haulage IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

means that Gary and his team provide many different services in the industry and he feels given the nature of the business that this is an important string to their bow.

“We would haul a wide range of goods to and from Britain and Europe as well as Ireland. We feel we're equipped to carry out all types of haulage work and through this we have developed a large customer base over the years.

“Regardless of how big or small a customer's transport requirements, we are committed to providing a solution to meet their needs.

Whatever their needs we aim to satisfy your deadlines and achieve optimum results every time.”

A fleet of 15 trucks which are made up of mainly Scania as well as a couple of DAFs and a Volvo are kept in pristine condition and maintenance is a major part of the business. “We keep the fleet fairly new so must of the vehicles would be under warranty and go back to where they were bought for most of the work, but we would also carry out minor repairs ourselves.”

The fleet of trailers consists of Euroliners, flatbeds, lowloaders and fridge trailers.

The refrigerated trailers are 26/33 pallet in size with dual temperature compartments.

This provides the customer with the flexibility to distribute fresh and frozen products together on the one trailer.

The Euroliners have side loading clearance of 2.7m (2.75m through rear doors) whilst the flats and low loaders are equipped with twist locks and vertical

goalposts for added security.

Every truck is fitted with satellite tracking which enables up to the minute position information for added security as well as accurate times of departure/arrival.

“There are also plans to extend the fleet next year, we bought a few trucks last year and hope to add another two trucks to it next year. We also have an array of trailers that are also kept in excellent condition.”

This family orientated business strives to ensure that the level of service provided is second to none and they used the motto of putting the customer first to good effect since first beginning operations fourteen years ago.

“We specialise in offering full and part load driver accompanied services to and from any European country for temperature controlled produce and dry freight goods. All our drivers have many years of experience travelling across Europe and have a good knowledge of the rules and regulations that govern each country.

“Our aim is to deliver our customers goods on time and in perfect condition by operating a well maintained fleet, which is constantly updated and serviced by our in house garage technicians ensuring reliability of service at all times.”

A staff of 22 ensure that the day-to-day running of the business runs as smoothly as possible and Gary admits that he has full trust in his employees to deliver the standard of service associated with the company.

Wishing Continued Success To Lyons European From Lyons European was founded in 1997

International Freight, Forwarding & Logistics Unit 10, Charlemont Ind Est, Moy, Co. Tyrone BT71 7SD www.rha.uk.net Tel: (028) 8778 9279 • Fax: (028) 8778 9563 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

29

The company has a fleet of 15 trucks

“We would have a very low turnover of staff, many of whom have been with us for a number of years now. The drivers know their jobs inside out as do the mechanics and the office staff. We have a good working unit here and it has served us well down through the years.”

Gary admits that keeping the overheads down is one of the keys to staying competitive in this business and every decision made in the company is given the utmost consideration.

“Definitely, if you can keep the over heads down, it is a big help, but to be honest this is a situation not easily achieved given the overheads that there are in this

28

industry.

“Fortunately, we are in a decent place at the moment and hopefully we can continue to provide an efficient

service and make sure that the customers are satisfied with our service. We cannot stress how important it is to achieve this.”

The fleet is made up of Volvo, DAF and Scania

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Lyons European

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

29

TRUCK NEWS n with io t ia c o s s a in

BIT’S ‘N’ BOB’S

TRUCK ACCESSORIES Monaghan (087) 2480730 • TRUCK ACCESSORIES IN 1 STOP - INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • IRISH AGENT FOR KELSA TRUCK BAR’S • NATIONWIDE NEXT DAY DELIVERY

Cooking up a storm as TPN announces €750,000 deal with Weber The Pallet Network (TPN), Ireland’s leading freight, transport and logistics services provider, has signed a deal worth €750,000 with Weber UK & Ireland. The three-year deal will see Weber use TPN and their 24 member network to ship, store and distribute all of its products and supplies to its Irish customers, which include all the leading DIY centres, hardware stores and garden centres across Ireland North and South.

The deal includes the shipping and storage of thousands of Weber products at TPN’s recently launched logistics centre.

Just the right temperature for a new deal: (l-r) Brendan Dunne, Ireland Sales Manager, Weber, Nicola Smith, Customer Services Manager, TPN and Owen Weber Barbeques is the world’s premier Cooke, Chairman TPN with the Weber BBQ Experience. manufacturer of charcoal, gas and electric grills, grilling accessories and other outdoor room products. The products carry the famous Weber 20 year warranty. The company has grown its Irish business by 50% over the last three years.

Brendan Dunne, Weber’s Sales Manager, commented, “Our amazing progress over the last few years is due to the quality and range of our products and in no small way to the superb logistics services provided by TPN. Our clients now know that when they order stock they will receive the correct products on time every time in presentable condition.

“Weber already has a strong following in the Irish market for our high quality barbecue and grill products. This partnership will see us consolidate our position and grow our percentage of the Irish market. Over the last number of weeks, we have been travelling across Ireland in our customised “SilverStream Trailer” showcasing the Weber BBQ experience and our unique grill, roast and bake barbecue techniques, cooking a range of recipes you never thought possible on your barbecue!”

“This deal represents another feather in the cap for TPN”, says Owen Cooke, Chairman, TPN. “Weber is a leading brand and a world class company, and we are very proud to be continuing this key relationship with Brendan and his team, having had a very successful year’s trial. TPN’s network of 24 regional transport depots played a huge part in securing the deal. With all of our member depots being a fully certified ISO 9001 operation, Weber can be assured of top class supply chain service.

“Due to the partnership agreement with Weber, we invested in a new custom designed warehouse management system which eradicates manual checking, by scanning all movements of Weber products in and out of the warehouse. In addition, it can give Weber 100% visibility and access to their product movements via a web based virtual warehouse application.” Cooke added that the company had seen its turnover increase year on year since 2004, when it had startup-revenues of €1.7 million. TPN is projecting a turnover of €18 million for 2011.

Shipping lines enforce EU cargo information rules Shipping lines have informed their customers that cargo will not be loaded unless the customs data is supplied in advance. Failure to this will result in fines, while the cargo will not be loaded after new EU regulations were implemented on January 1st, but are only becoming operational now as customers were allowed time to get use to them. Maersk Line warned customers: “The European Customs Advanced Manifest rule will be strictly enforced from 1 July and failure to comply may lead to penalties and/or fines.

“We would like to emphasise to our customers the importance of submitting the Transport Document Instructions (TDIs) in accordance with the deadlines established by local Maersk Line offices as the information is submitted to the EU member states’ Customs. “Failure to submit the shipping instructions in time will lead to cargo not being loaded. For short sea shipments, cargo arriving to EU ports without a timely lodged ENS could prevent cargo being accepted for discharge or put on hold at EU entry port, fines and/or penalties could as well be imposed by customs.”

2

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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

01 862 0000

Eddie Stobart launches training programme Eddie Stobart Transport, which has one of the largest fleets in the UK and Ireland, has launched an apprenticeship programme that will create 150 professionals in the logistics industry. The transport company and the UK’s largest logistics training provider System Training will create the positions as part of Stobart’s new Logistics Apprenticeship Programme. Applicants are to between 16 and 18 and they will take part in six months intense training that will include warehousing, traffic planning, delivering goods and driving goods vehicles. Tony Higgins, System Training’s Director of Learning, said: “Logistics businesses are starting to realise the benefits that highly-trained young people can bring to their company. Businesses can receive apprentices who can be moulded into their way of working and are ready to learn.”

Eddie Stobart Transport launch an apprenticeship programme

Shipping rates set for further fall Larger contrainerships are causing shipping rates to fall

Shipping lines are gripping themselves for a further fall in rates as larger vessels with lower unit costs distort the market.

Carriers are turning to larger containerships in order to transport more goods and this is causing the rates to fall considerably over the last few months. Analyst Alphaliner said: “Pressure to match the unit slot costs of competing carriers which already operate larger ships could soon force the remaining carriers to upgrade their fleets, leading to further rate competition as they strive to fill these ultra-large containerships.” Janet Lewis, Regional Head of Industrials & Shipping Research in Asia at Macquarie Capital Securities said that overall demand on the Asia-Europe trade had been “robust” this year, but the deployment of vessels of more than 10,000teu capacity was having a “disproportionate” impact on the market. “There’s pressure from owners to fill them,” she said. “If you replace an 8,000teu capacity vessel with one of 13,000teu and you want 90% utilisation, then there’s the temptation to discount, because your cost per teu is lower.”

Further traffic increases a possibility

Rise in fares could see more congested roads

Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar’s announcement that there will be a rise in public transport fares could be bad news for hauliers as more people will revert to using their own vehicles on the roads. Traffic congestion is a common sight in Ireland but has been eased considerably due to the road network constructed during the Celtic Tiger. However, some towns and cities still suffer from the problem and if public transport costs do rise, it is likely that more and more people will take to the roads and this means even more traffic. Hauliers are already facing long delays and idleness is a bane of the industry, especially at a time when diesel prices, although falling slightly in recent weeks is still a major outlay for haulage companies. Mr Varadkar said the C.I.E is losing money and therefore changes need to be made. The level of fare increases has yet to be determined but it is understood it will depend on cost reductions and getting more people to use public transport.

4

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Lilly Commercials continue to deliver

Terry Lilly Commercials is situated in Finglas

32

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

In October 2009, Terry Lilly Commercials acquired the Fiat dealership and in the same year, they opened a new state of the art premises in Finglas, Co Dublin. Almost two years has now elapsed since that momentous year for the long established business and we speak to dealer principal Terry Lilly about the intervening 24 months.

T

erry Lilly Commercials was founded in 1990 and quickly developed a reputation for supplying top quality used light commercial vehicles. Through the hard word of Terry and his team, their customer base quickly grew and they have set standards that are rivaled by very few in this competitive industry.

We all know that over the last few years, the recession that has gripped this nation tighter than a vice has had a massive impact on all trades, but the motor trade has been one of the worst hit and unfortunately some businesses did not avoid the cull, but those with the experience and guile of Terry Lilly Commercials withstood this setback and one could suggest that they are stronger and more determined for it.

Having dealt in light commercial vehicles since its genesis 21 years ago, Terry knew that they had to diversify the business in some capacity and he revealed that acquiring the Fiat dealership was an easy decision to make.

“I suppose like everyone else, things just went very quiet and we were thinking what we could do to increase business. I've always found that Fiat has been a very good seller and their range of vans are very popular,” said Terry. “Plus I had never dealt in cars before and this gave our customers an extra option when they came to view vehicles.”

Terry admits that it is a decision that he is delighted to have made as it really had helped turned the business around at a time when every move has to be made with the utmost of consideration.

“I'm very happy with it. Fiat are a great company to deal with IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

and I must say it really has helped the business. In fairness we are still not as busy as we were a few years back, but I don't think we will get back to that level for a number of years yet, no one will.

“But, we have to keep working away and although business is quiet, we are happy with the direction that the company is heading and we will continue to work hard to ensure customer satisfaction is guaranteed.”

Through the years the expansion of the customer base been equaled by the amount of repeat custom that the North Dublin company has retained over the years and Terry would like to thank all for their continued support.

“Yes our customers have been very loyal and I would like to thank them for the support that they have given us over the years and we aim to continue providing the same level service for many years to come. The majority of our customers would be commercial clientele, but there is a good interest in the car sales too and this is an area that we are hoping to develop in the future.”

The one problem that all dealers seem to be having is trying to get finance for their customers as banks are refusing to release money, which is ironic, given the fact that it is mainly because of them that we are in this mess.

However, Terry revealed that he is dealing with finance brokers that have been very helpful to his customers.

“Trying to obtain finance has been a major stumbling block over the last few years and it has turned right around from the days, banks were eager to give out loans, but we use First Auto Finance Ireland Limited who have been excellent in obtaining finance for customers. So if anyone has any worries or queries about getting finance then they should

33

All vehicles are cleaned and maintained

just get in touch with us and we can have a chat.”

All new vehicles come with a full manufacturers' warranty, while the company also offers extensive warranties on all of its quality used vehicles. With enormous purchasing power, the company is also extremely competitive on price.

A cursory look around Terry Lilly Commercials is all that is needed to establish this company's bona fides.

The company is without question at the leading edge of light commercial vehicle sales in Dublin, if not the whole country. A purpose built showroom, which houses a myriad of marques and models is proof positive that this company means business.

Terry Lilly Commercials is ideally situated just 500 yards from the Junction 5 exit on the M50 motorway, but there is a whole lot more to the company than the premises.

The company's ongoing success is embedded in its very fabric. Terry Lilly Commercials exudes an air of friendliness and professionalism which places potential and existing commercial vehicle customers firmly in the comfort zone. This is an establishment where the commercial customer is king.

Success has been built on delivering high levels of customer service in every aspect of the business from sales right through to after-sales

34

service. “We are commercial vehicle specialists and we know the business inside out. We have a proven track record stretching back 21 years so we have the experience to deal with the requirements of the commercial customer.”

To complement the company's extensive sales activities, Terry Lilly Commercials also offers a wide range of finance options to its customers.

“We offer all kinds of finance packages

from contract hire, to hire purchase and leasing. We are experts in all aspects of vehicle financing,” added Terry.

Terry Lilly Commercials North Road, Finglas, Dublin 11, Ireland.

Ph: 01 8640000 F: 01 8641144 e-mail: info@terrylillycommercials.ie www.terrylillycommercials.ie

The spacious showrooms at Terry Lilly Commercials

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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5 Clonshaugh Green, Clonshaugh, Dublin 17.

Tel 00353879821211 info@dentrepairexpress.ie

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Wishing Terry All The Best For The Next 20 Years!

Tel: 01 8612081 Fax: 01 8612083

www.griffithjroberts.com Best wishes to Terry & Staff on their 20th year in business, wishing them many more successful years!

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T: 01 4511824 F: 01 4514739 E: squarefit@eircom.net Lower Ballymount Road T: 01 8110793 E: tyresuperstore@gmail.com

www.squarefit.ie Wishing Continued Success To Terry Lilly Commercials From

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Tel: +353 1 882 7600 Fax: +353 1 860 0560 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

35

Causeway - the giants of palletised freight

As the country’s only complete service provider for all aspects of palletised freight, Causeway Pallets and Transport has cornered its market. And, as director Nigel Bartlett tells Irish Trucker, the main reason behind their success is by doing everything to the highest standard with the help of their loyal and hard working team.

C

auseway Pallets has come a long way since the company first saw the light of day in the early 1990s. Back then, when Samuel Bartlett started up a small operation just outside Ballymoney in Co Antrim with the aim of building, restoring and

36

supplying pallets to a range of goods and manufacturing companies in the vicinity, only the most optimistic could have foreseen where it is today.

Eighteen years and two new headquarters later, the company – now known as Causeway Pallets and

Transport Ltd – prides itself as the only firm on the island of Ireland offering the complete service for palletised freight, from the supply of pallets to storage to distribution, not only within Northern Ireland but throughout the 32 counties and the IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

we could deliver their goods from A to B as well. It was a natural progression for us but we definitely got the idea from our customers enquiring in the first place. It’s gone well, we’re very happy with the way the business has moved forward, definitely.”

The upward pattern of the graph has been constant over the past 18 years. From a small company supplying pallets to one customer, and then branching into transport and distribution with one vehicle, Causeway Pallets and Transport now works a fleet of 12 trucks and 30 trailers, while the new base on Fivey Road, about five kilometres east of Ballymoney, also incorporates approximately 100,000 sq feet of storage.

While the pallets and transport sectors of the company are effectively separate, the two strands are very closely interlinked, says Nigel, and the fact that Causeway Pallets and Transport offers the one-stop shop to potential customers is a big selling-point.

“We do a lot of pallet deliveries to companies and many of those companies deploy us to distribute their goods too, so they compliment each other very well. We offer the whole package, from the very beginning when they need a pallet to put their goods on, to when they need their goods lifted and taken on to a warehouse or a customer.

There are 12 trucks and 30 trailers in the fleet

United Kingdom and into Europe.

Nigel Bartlett, the son of fellow directors Samuel and Marian, became involved in the mid1990s and the move into transport happened soon afterwards. So how did that decision come about?

“To be honest,” he says, “it was an idea that really grew from a lot of enquiries we were getting from our customers. We were delivering pallets to companies around the area and more and more of them started asking us if IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Causeway Pallets and Transport operate with the highest standards

Causeway’s reputation sees them gain a lot of new business through word of mouth

37

The company was founded 18-years ago

“We don’t really have a typical customer. We do a wide range of work for various companies in very different industries, from distilleries to fruit & veg, to steel companies and agricultural clients such as potatogrowers. One thing we do notice, though, is that a lot of the newer customers come on board because of word of mouth. We retain a lot of the customers that come to us – the very first company that my father started supplying pallets to is still a customer

of ours today. We provide the best service we can and we’re proud of the fact that our customers recommend us to others.”

Having worked extensively in both the UK and Ireland, the people at Causeway Pallets and Transport are well placed to comment on the different ways in which the economic downturn has affected the two countries.

“There’s no real difference working in the South or in the UK,” says Nigel. “It

doesn’t affect the running of it in any way, but we have noticed a big difference in the economic climate in the Republic of Ireland as opposed to the UK. “We have noticed a significant difference in the economic climate in the Republic of Ireland as opposed to the UK. We used to have 6-7 vehicles south of the border every day and now if we have one per day crossing the border that would be a good week.

You’d really notice the slowdown in the

Best Wishes To Causeway Pallets & Transport from

R.BARKLEY & SONS LTD. U.K. & Eire Services Warehousing & Distribution HAULAGE CONTRACTORS 14 Landhead Rd., Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 1HD

Tel: Ballymoney (028) 276 63301 /62696 Fax: (028) 276 65286 Heywood Depot Tel: 0170 662 2252 • Fax: 0170 662 2280 38

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The only firm on the island of Ireland offering the complete service for palletised freight

Causeway Pallets and Transport Ltd has come up with new ways of streamlining the business – and an inhouse maintenance service is one area that has worked out well.

Included among the 25 staff based at its Fivey Road base is one full-time mechanic, so all the maintenance and servicing required by the fleet of vehicles is carried out on site – and Best wishes to Causeway Pallets & Transport, from that’s something that has worked out well.

“Like everyone else, we’re stretching everything out,” says Nigel. “We maintain our 22 Lislagan Road, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 7DD vehicles to the highest standard but when it comes to upgrading the fleet, if we can get

South. The North has slowed down as well but it doesn’t seem to be anything compared to the South. The whole economic situation means that now we just do less work in the South and try to grow and obtain more work in the north, to compensate for the loss.”

Like every successful company in the prevailing financial conditions,

Commercials

Tel: 079 0062 5255 • 077 10 800 181 • 079 005 68692

SPECIALISING IN NEW & USED TRUCKS, TRAILER & VAN SALES

40

another year out of our trucks by keeping them well maintained then that’s the best route for all concerned.

We set up our own garage here, so that’s a big help. If a job needs to be done then we can do it on site instead of bringing it to a garage and paying by the hour. For us, it’s definitely the right way to do things.” To assist with the huge increase in fuel costs the entire fleet has been fitted with a fuel and driver style monitoring system; “We have found that by monitoring various aspects of each vehicle we can dramatically cut the amount of fuel wasted, helping us keep our rates competitive while keeping our high standard of service.”

Doing things the right way. Just like they’ve always done.

For more details on the services offered by Causeway Pallets and Transport Ltd, check out www.causewaypt.co.uk or call 028 2075 1617.

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Ireland jump up road safety list Ireland is now rated the sixth safest country when it comes to traffic accidents according to a new report published by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC). Since 2001, Ireland has made massive progress in regards to road safety and to be listed as sixth safest amongst the 27 EU member states is a huge achievement for all involved. Road deaths in Ireland dropped by 11% between 2009 and 2010 and RSA CEO Noel Brett revealed that he was delighted with the findings but stressed that as a nation we needed to keep working on road safety. “Yet again road users in Ireland have shown that by taking road safety into the heart of their communities, many lives can be saved and injuries prevented. Your achievement is remarkable and you have become an example to the rest of Europe and indeed the world by your responsible actions on the roads. But these achievements can be easily taken away from us if we allow ourselves to become complacent. There is still a big gap between Ireland and the safest counties in Europe,” said Brett “So I would ask you all to keep up the great work and to renew your efforts to stay safe on the roads.

Already this year, your efforts are showing results with 16 fewer deaths on our roads to date compared with the same period last year. If I could pick three areas for improvement it would be to slow down, don’t use a mobile phone while driving and wear a high visibility jacket when out cycling, biking or walking.”

Ireland is now rated sixth safest country when it comes to traffic accidents

Fuel prices back on UK agenda

UK Government have been asked to look at rising fuel costs

Following its successful first campaign, FairFuel UK has once again asked the UK Government to address the problem of rising fuel costs that is strangling many of the companies that it represents. There had been a reduction in the price of fuel after the campaign group successfully lobbied the House of Commons, but they now want more as oil prices have dropped but that has not been reflected at the pumps. “Oil prices have fallen, but what we pay at the pump for petrol and diesel remains far too high,” it said.

Last week, representatives of the campaign group were at Westminster in a bid to force the fuel issue back on the political agenda, telling the government that oil companies needed to pass on reductions in the price of oil. “If they don’t, the government needs to take action,” said FairFuel UK. “It needs to do much more about fuel tax. It needs to abandon its current plan to increase fuel tax in January 2012, and needs to understand that the current high level of fuel tax is hurting motorists, businesses and the road haulier.

6

Fears over introduction of longer trailers Campaign groups have been forming all over Europe to protest against plans to introduce longer trailers on European roads. In the UK there has been a campaign group formed recently to protest against government plans to introduce longer lorries on UK roads, which they feel are not safe and could put some smaller hauliers out of business. The Campaign for Better Transport and Freight on Rail – backed by the Campaign to Protect Rural England, CTC (the national cyclists’ organisation), Friends of the Earth, Living Streets, RoadPeace and Sustrans – predicted that plans to increase lorry lengths could lead to six more road deaths a year, more road congestion and cost small and medium-sized hauliers up to £1.8 billion (US$2.57bn) over five years. Campaign for Better Transport CEO Stephen Joseph said: “The government’s research is misleading and inaccurate.

All the evidence points to longer lorries being more dangerous, having a negative impact on road congestion and the environment while providing very little economic benefits – in fact they could be the final nail in the coffin for smaller hauliers. The government needs to re-examine its own figures as a matter of urgency.”

New service station opened on M7 motorway Hauliers travelling on the Cork to Dublin motorway can now avail of a new service station that has been opened near Monasterevin, Co Kildare. The new €7 million facility has been opened just off the motorway at junction 14 and is a privately run premises. The National Roads Authority have now put a halt to plans to construct another service station near Mountrath in Co Laois. "Considering the lack of funding for additional service stations, the new private operation will satisfy a need that the NRA agrees is there," said a NRA spokesperson. Only three of 12 planned motorway services stations have opened — at Castlebellingham and Lusk on the M1 and near Enfield on the M4. Plans to open the remaining nine facilities, including one at Mountrath, were postponed indefinitely by the NRA due to a lack of Government funding.

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Scania introduces two revised distribution rigid models

Scania complete box and Scania Complete Curtainsider

Scania has extended its range of complete vehicles by introducing two revised distribution rigid model ranges – Scania Complete Box and Scania Complete Curtainsider. The Scania Complete Box and Curtainsider range offers a wide selection of 18- and 26-tonne options with a choice of Scania Euro 5 EGR engines. Scania Opticruise, Scania’s automated gear-selection system, can also be specified.

Scania is working with Cartwright to provide the bodywork for its Complete Box and Curtainsider range. Box and curtainsider bodywork options include a selection of interior and exterior fitments and load restraint systems, plus a choice of column and tuckaway tail-lifts by leading manufacturers. According to sales director Martin Hay: “Several years ago we launched the Scania Complete Vehicle programme to provide a one-stop service to take away the pain of dealing with multiple suppliers. “Since then, our understanding of operators’ needs from a bodywork perspective has continued to develop and grow and the programme we are now launching provides our broadest-ever range of specification options, allowing vehicles to be optimised for a multitude of specific transport tasks.”

Other vehicles in the complete range include: the Scania Complete Skiploader, the Scania Complete Hookloader; and the Scania Wet Kit and Petroleum Regulations tractor units.

Japanese vehicle manufacturers hiring again Toyota and other Japanese vehicle manufacturers intend to hire thousands of contract workers. The announcement came as the carmakers endeavour to make up for lost production due to the March 11th earthquake and tsunami. Toyota plans to hire up to 4,000 contract workers at its Japan factories. “In terms of domestic output, the company expects production will start recovering from around October, making up the delay caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake,” a Toyota statement reads. “In order to meet the challenge, the company plans to hire 3,000 4,000 contract workers throughout the nation from mid-July.” These will represent Toyota’s first new contract hirings since December 2009. The positions will be for part manufacturing and vehicle assembly. With Japanese manufacturers cautious about offering new full-time positions in what remains a volatile economy, Honda also plans to hire about 1,000 new contract workers and renew contracts with current employees as it looks to boost output in the second half of the year. And Nissan aims to increase its number of contract workers by at least 200 at its five domestic plants by the end of July.

Malcolm Group Choose SDC’s Strong Curtainside Trailers UK trailer manufacturer SDC Trailers has signed a deal to supply The Malcolm Group with 200 new semitrailers over two years – SDC’s first order from the leading haulier in over five years.

The new tri-axle trailers are 13.6 metres long and 4.5 metres high and SDC aims to deliver 90 in 2011 with a further 110 due for delivery in 2012. They will be direct replacements for old trailers coming out of the Malcolm fleet.

The trailers will be constructed to EN12642XL certification ensuring conformity to structural body strength standards to deliver a more stable and SDC Trailers will supply the stronger unit. This is backed up by WISA-Trans flooring Malcolm Group with 200 new semi-trailers over two years to produce a very robust and resistant surface which isable to cope with the demands of daily haulage.

They feature flush rear doors, aerodynamic side skirts and an aero bulkhead pod to improve fuel economy.

SDC was the first UK trailer manufacturer to gain EN12642XL certification for its products and the company has seen sales of around 500 of the higher specification trailers since November last year.

Mark Cuskeran, SDC Trailers Managing Director, said: “SDC is pleased to supply The Malcolm Group with our new high standard curtainside trailer. We are seeingmore and more customers opting for trailers constructed to the new certification as they are more robust. As well as strength, the trailer also provides solid fuel economy through the added aero package.”

Andrew Malcolm, The Malcolm Group Chief Executive, said: “Quality and service is paramount to our business and this is derived from our continual investment in the latest vehicles and cuttingedge technology. Our decision to invest in SDC’s trailers was made easy by their excellent quality.”

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M8 Recovery’s FH is smarter than the average bear Alec McManus of Glasgow-based M8 Recovery has added another spectacular Volvo wrecker to his fleet. With specialist recovery bodywork, the Boniface Engineering Trident recoverer will be pulling home trucks and coaches that have fallen by the wayside on Scotland’s busy east-west motorway. Alec runs a mixed fleet of nearly 40 specialised recovery vehicles and this latest £400,000 monster packs a 50 tonne crane-lift and a 150-tonne train weight under the bright red bodywork.

It has a cuddly side to it too. Alec says, "We like to give each of our trucks a cartoon identity with a bespoke livery." This latest FH13-460 6x4 has been liveried as ‘Yogi Bear' who no doubt keeps his eyes peeled for the Rangers on the motorway. Alec, or Junior as he is better known to his many friends, commented that it was the solid product reputation and excellent dealer support for his previous Volvos that meant he did not hesitate to take another FH. "The Volvo is bulletproof" he said. Adding, "I'd have an all-Volvo operation if I could, but I need to run a mixed fleet to satisfy the variety of contracts I have." The roll call of M8 Recovery's PSV contracts are straight from the top flight of local and national names in bus and coach circles, including Stagecoach, First Bus, Arriva and Parks of Hamilton. Alec runs a ‘one-manone-truck' policy at M8 Recovery and the new 13-litre Volvo FH is driven by Paul O'Neill who, quite simply, "Loves it to bits." The Globetrotter XL spec cab and a manual gearbox make it "perfect for the job", says Paul. Already running two Volvo FMs and another FH, Alec is about to place a further order for another FH from Volvo Truck & Bus Centre North and Scotland, Cardonald.

Circle Oil turns profit Limerick-headquartered exploration company Circle Oil has reported its first annual profit. The company owns producing assets in Morocco and Egypt. However, unrest in Egypt had led to delays in receiving payment for its oil (though the unrest has not affected production). Figures released show that the AIM-listed company made a net profit of $10.4m in 2010, after a loss of $13.5m the previous year. Operating profits were $12.6m. Revenue from oil and gas sales almost trebled to $44.4m.

Be road safety aware during school holidays As thousands of primary schoolchildren around the country prepare for the end of the school year and the beginning of their summer holidays, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is reminding road-users to be on the lookout for children when using the roads. The RSA is also reminding parents and guardians to make sure their children play safely this summer.

Mr Noel Brett, CEO of the RSA said: “With schools closing, there will be more children spending time outdoors during their summer holidays so we are asking road-users to be extra cautious when using the roads, especially in built-up areas. Look out for children who might be playing, walking or cycling on or near the road. Remember, children are our most vulnerable road-users because of their age and the fact that they are not able to recognise danger like adults. So make sure you pay extra attention when children are nearby.”

Parents and guardians are also being advised to teach their children about playing safely near roads and being road safety aware when they’re walking or cycling.

“Make sure your child knows how to behave safely on the roads. If they’re cycling, ensure that they wear the proper protective gear such as a bicycle helmet and high visibility clothing. If they’re walking or playing near roads, make sure they know that they should only cross the road with a grown up and only when it’s safe to do so. Most importantly, make sure you demonstrate good road safety behaviour at all times. Children learn from what we as parents do so if you’re in the car, drive in a responsible and safe manner and always wear your seatbelt.”

For more information on road safety for children, as well as interactive games and videos, visit the ‘Road Safety for Kids’ section of RSA website, www.rsa.ie The RSA also has the following advice for parents and motorists: Travelling by Car * Motorists, be aware of children when driving, particularly through residential areas * All children should be restrained when travelling in a car * Select a restraint that is based on your child’s weight and height and is suitable for the type of car * Remember it’s safer if children travel in the rear of a car * Never leave children alone in a car Walking: * Small children should not cross roads alone. They cannot decide how far away a car is or how fast it is going * Children walking on country roads should wear reflective armbands and bright clothing * If there is no footpath, walk on the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic keeping as close as possible to the side of the road * Show your child how to cross the road by example. Choose safe places to cross and take time to explain why i.e. footbridges, zebra or pelican crossings Cycle Safety * Make sure they are highly visible by wearing a reflective belt and bright clothes and wear a bicycle safety helmet on all journeys * Check that the bicycle’s brakes, lights, reflector and bell are in good working order

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Paul Mallee appointed new chairperson of Bus Eireann The President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport*, Paul Mallee, has been appointed the new Chairperson of Bus Éireann.

Mr Mallee is a management consultant specializing in the transport sector, and is a recent alumnus of Booz & Company where he was an Associate in the Transport practice of this top-tier global strategy consultancy for the past six years.

Mr Mallee has served as President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport since Autumn 2009, having served as Vice-President since 2007. He was elected a Fellow of the Institute in 2010.

Speaking on his appointment Mr Mallee commented "'I am delighted that the Minister for Transport has appointed me Chairperson of Bus Éireann and to the Board of the CIE Group, and I look forward to the challenges ahead.

"My appointment is also recognition of the role and work of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport that has played an important part in the development of the transport and logistics sector in Ireland over many years."

Shipping lines go big Three more shipping lines have ordered larger containerships as fears for the industry continue to grow following a further drop in rates. Maersk, Neptune Orient Lines and MOL have announced that they have ordered a combined total of 24 large containerships as the majority of shipping lines go big in order to stay competitive in the market. This is Maersk’s second order of large containerships following the announcement in February that it would be acquiring 10 Triple E-class vessels and the company CEO Eivind Kolding revealed the vessels involved. “We now have 20 Triple-Es on order.

They underline our strong commitment to the Asia-Europe trade and fit well with our current ambitions and expectations for the development of the trade,” said Kolding. “We believe the Triple-E ships with their record capacity and energy efficiency will enable us to deliver on the commercial and environmental expectations of our customers and also give us a significant competitive advantage in the market.”

Irish exporters look to Germany Ireland is looking to Europe’s largest consumer market for its exports as trade between us and Germany has increased dramatically this year. Accountancy firm Deloitte carried out a survey recently which revealed that many Irish companies are now looking to export their goods to the German market.

The advantage of this is that the German economy is booming at the moment and the fact that it is a euro zone lessens the risen taken by exporters. "It's the largest consumer market in Europe so if you are serious about exporting you should be there," said Helmut Clissmann, a Dubliner with German and Irish roots who has been doing business in both countries for almost 40 years. Mr Clissmann believes there are fundamental differences that must be understood by anyone who wants to do business in Germany.

"Germany is a much bigger country than Ireland and business is not done on a personal basis like it is in Ireland," said Mr Clissmann. "For this reason you really have to do your homework before you start talking. If you appear at a meeting and you don't know what you're doing you won't get a second chance."

Sustainable travel projects receive €55 million in funding Minister for Public Transport and Commuter Policy, Alan Kelly, has confirmed that €55 million will be spent on sustainable travel projects this year. The Minister confirmed the figure as he announced the 34 projects being carried out in our regional cities under the jobs initiative. An additional €5 million will be spent on labour intensive sustainable travel projects such as road improvement works, pedestrian crossings cycle routes and more sophisticated traffic control systems. These projects will be commenced in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford this year.

“This funding is about creating jobs and making our transport system easier to use for cyclists Alan Kelly Minister for and pedestrians thereby taking cars off the road and boosting our competitiveness,” stated Public Transport Minister Kelly. “The last census showed that over 200,000 of us drive less than 4 kilometres to and Commuter Policy work. To incentivise people to not use their cars, we have to make walkways, cycle paths and the road network more user-friendly. This money is doing this while at the same time creating jobs. We are investing in cycle networks in Cork and a City wide traffic control system in Galway which will help make traffic flow easier through our cities,” he added. This funding goes towards improving the sustainability and integration of the current transport network to make it easier for people to not use their cars to commute. “This is part of our plan to re-balance the transport budget towards public transport. While we are in a very challenging period financially, it is important that we put what resources we do have into sustainable transport and making non-driving options more attractive,” concluded the Minister Included among the 34 projects are; €400,000 for new phase of Cork Cycle Network between Douglas and City Centre €250,000 for a city-wide intelligent traffic control system within City Hall in Galway including traffic signs, CCTV cameras and variable message signs €600,000 for advanced facilities for transport users and traffic calming measures for South Quays Green Route in Waterford €150,000 for improvement of existing cycle facilities in Limerick.

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Maersk announce pricing changes Maersk Line have announced plans to start charging customers who fail to fulfill bookings, while the shipping company will also refund customers if a container is not loaded. Speaking exclusively to IFW, Maersk Line’s Senior Director for Charge Management, Network and Product, John Nielsen, said that, on average, around 20% of containers failed to turn up for the vessel they are booked on globally. “Some customers pay for others’ mistakes. It is well known that a percentage of bookings will be downfalls. The only way shipping lines can compensate for that is to overbook the vessel, said Nielsen.

“Then if the downfalls do not come, you have too much cargo and you need to leave some behind. That hurts the well-behaved customers who end up paying the price for the over-bookings made by others. “We want to make sure that when they have a booking confirmation, then we will load it.

Then customers can plan their supply chain better.”

UK clampdown on litterbug truckers

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The Highways Agency is cracking down on truck drivers who spill rubbish on roads due to insecure loads.

Under the new arrangement, HA traffic officers and contractors will report any such incidents to the North West Traffic Commissioner, who will then warn the operator concerned that their O-licence could be at risk. The HA says the initiative could be rolled out across England if it proves to be a success in the North West. Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell says: "I support this initiative for HA traffic officers and contractors to report instances where the drivers of commercial operators have not ensured that their loads are secured effectively and I urge all operators to remind their staff of the safety implications of such incidents.

"Operators and drivers who are reported to my office may find themselves subject to consideration of disciplinary action." A-one+, HA contractor for south Lancashire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester and Cheshire, is responsible for removing litter and debris from the motorway network on behalf of the agency. Last year it collected more than 66,000 sacks of rubbish from motorways in the area.

Brian Statham, A-one+ general manager, says: "A large amount of commercial litter is blown from the back of large goods vehicles. Typically, we see large pieces of polythene, plastic and polystyrene wedged in trees and bushes, but there could be serious safety implications if a piece of this material caused other vehicles to swerve or brake suddenly."

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Stena Line buoyant with new routes clearance

Competition Commission approves Stena Line’s acquisition of the DFDS routes

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Ferry company Stena Line has expressed its delight at the recent announcement that its acquisition of the DFDS routes from Belfast to Liverpool (Birkenhead) and Belfast to Heysham has been fully approved by the Competition Commission. The acquisition, which amounts to approximately £40M investment, will enable Stena Line to improve its service on the Irish Sea by offering several different alternatives for transportation between Northern Ireland and Great Britain and will improve service and frequency for freight and passengers. Irish Sea area director Michael McGrath said: “We are naturally delighted to have been given the green light by the UK Competition Commission and will now engage in a process of evaluation and integration in terms of the wider Stena Line business.

We have always believed that the DFDS acquisition would make a perfect fit for our business and our customers and we are looking forward to implementing our extended route network on the Irish Sea. We believe that the acquisition also strengthens Belfast as a key transport hub within our route network for both freight and tourism traffic.”

As part of the deal Stena Line will also acquire four ships from DFDS which will include the chartered Lagan Seaways and Mersey Seaways on the Belfast-Liverpool route and the freight carriers Scotia Seaways and Hibernia Seaways. This will bring the number of Stena Line routes on the Irish Sea to six, adding to the existing Stranraer-Belfast, HolyheadDublin, Holyhead-Dun Laoghaire and Fishguard-Rosslare routes.

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Domestic slump overshadows exports surge Official figures have revealed that the domestic slump has outweighed the rise in exports as the country battles to get back on its feet. Exports have been the one shining light during this current recession and they have single-handedly kept the haulage and shipping industries afloat. "The Irish economy performed a little stronger in the first quarter of the year than was generally expected," said IBEC chief economist Fergal O'Brien. "The export performance has remained incredibly strong and it is very encouraging to see companies are increasing their investment in machinery and equipment again." However, he added, "despite the stellar export performance and the recovery in investment, overall economic growth remains fairly flat because consumers remain too frightened to spend. "Government must do everything it can to give households clarity on the economic situation and in particular it must clearly spell out as early as possible the likely impact of the budgetary adjustments on household finances. "If Irish consumers start spending again a solid period of economic growth could quickly emerge."

Toyota downgraded Toyota’s rating has been downgraded amid ongoing concerns about the manufacturer’s profitability.

Ratings agency Moody's has downgraded Toyota Motor and its affiliates by one notch to Aa3. The Japanese motor giant has endured a torrid twelve months, first affected by millions of safety recalls last year before the earthquake / tsunami in Japan hammered production. And now it is being affected by a strong yen and materials costs. The rating remains on review as one notch of support is incorporated from Japan’s banks and government, who are also up for review at present. Toyota is one of Japan’s strongest exporters but the strong yen has made their product less attractive to overseas buyers. Moody’s notes: “Toyota's profit recovery will not be as strong as preferred because of its weakening market shares in various regions worldwide, the strong yen and high raw material prices.”

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13

Slane bypass ruling deferred

Transport group increases turnover for third year in a row to €16m 9% increase in 2011 activity as TPN launches new Logistics Division

Decision on Slane Bypass deferred

A decision on Meath County Council’s plan to construct a 3.5km bypass off Slane village has been deferred by An Bord Pleanala. Slane village has been a notorious spot for crashes, mostly involving lorries unable to make their way around a twisty bridge on the Dublin road. Plans have been put in place to construct a bypass that would include a new dual carriageway over a new 216 metre concrete bridge. In total 22 people have been killed on the road over the years. However, there are those campaigning against the bypass as they feel it would spoil views in the area and also threaten the village’s status as a world heritage site. An Bord Pleanala were due to give a decision on the planning application in June, but it has been put back until August 30th.

Lorries containing stolen alcohol seized Gardai held six men following the recent seizure of two truckloads of stolen alcohol. The arrests were made as part of an investigation into dissident republican activities. Three men from Northern Ireland were arrested after an articulated truck was stopped on the M1 near Drogheda. The stolen truck contained a consignment of alcohol. A second trailer, also containing alcohol, was also seized. Three more men were arrested in the midlands in a follow-up operation.

The Garda operation was led by officers from the Special Detective Unit and the Louth-Meath division.

Blanchardstown-based The Pallet Network (TPN) and Independent Express Cargo Ltd, two of Ireland’s leading freight, transport and logistics services providers, and part of the Independent Express Group, has announced a combined turnover of €16.1 million for 2010. This is the third year in a row that the Group has reported year on year increases in turnover. The transport group has further reported a 9% increase in activity for 2011. Independent Express Group, incorporating TPN employs over 50 people at its €10 million 100,000 sq ft hub.

The announcement of the group turnover came in the wake of TPN’s recent €750,000, three year deal with Weber UK & Ireland, which will see Weber use TPN and their 24 member network to ship, store and distribute its products and supplies to its Irish customers, which include leading DIY centres, hardware stores and garden centres across the island of Ireland. The deal includes the shipping and storage of thousands of Weber products at TPN’s recently launched logistics centre.

Independent Express Cargo Ltd was founded in 1984 by Owen Cooke. Cooke was previously nominated for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2009.

Seamus McGowan, Managing Director, Independent Express Group, said, “We are pleased to report another further increase in turnover for 2010, especially in light of the global economic crisis that clearly had an impact on Ireland’s economy over the last few years. The company's positive financial results show that our business strategy is on the right track and that our investment in new technologies, more efficient infrastructure and our new logistics division is paying off. We plan to continue along the same lines in the future while continuing to stay as lean as possible. We are optimistic for the future as Ireland’s trade and exports show continued growth. We are projecting a group turnover of circa €18 million for 2011.”

Major cigarette find at Dublin warehouse The gardai have arrested three men in connection with the seizure of seven million illegal cigarettes at a warehouse at Baldonnell Business Park in June. The contraband was believed to be worth an estimated €3 million and was brought into the country via Belfast port after it was labelled as wooden flooring. Custom officials and Gardai monitored the cargo, which was brought to Baldonnell Business Park by truck and they then swooped and made their arrests. The three men two in their 20s and another in his 40s - were arrested at the scene.

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Owen Cooke, Chairman, The Pallet Network & Independent Express Cargo (foreground) and Seamus McGowan, MD (background) at the companies recently launched logistics centre. The leading freight, transport and logistics providers have announced a combined turnover of €16.1 million for 2010. The transport group has further reported a 9% increase in activity for 2011. Independent Express Group, incorporating TPN employs over 50 people at its €10 million 100,000 sq ft hub in Blanchardstown.

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Le Havre bid for traffic increase Le Havre is looking to become one of Europe’s leading facilities over the next few years

The port of Le Havre, which is used by many Irish hauliers working on the continent, is launching an ambitious drive to increase its new vehicle traffic. The aim of the project is to increase traffic and help the port become one of Europe’s leading facilities over the coming years. To do this, the port have called on everyone involved to help their cause and play some part. The Ro-Ro Max project will bring together the port, stevedores, logistics companies, yard operators and engineering schools to help increase new vehicle numbers to 500,000 units by 2015. Last year the port handled 340,000 new vehicles. Le Havre have announced plans to upgrade its infrastructure to help cope with the increase of traffic and it is hoped that up to 150 jobs can be created by the project, if successful.

New service station opened on M7 motorway Hauliers travelling on the Cork to Dublin motorway can now avail of a new service station that has been opened near Monasterevin, Co Kildare. The new €7 million facility has been opened just off the motorway at junction 14 and is a privately run premises. The National Roads Authority have now put a halt to plans to construct another service station near Mountrath in Co Laois. "Considering the lack of funding for additional service stations, the new private operation will satisfy a need that the NRA agrees is there," said a NRA spokesperson. Only three of 12 planned motorway services stations have opened — at Castlebellingham and Lusk on the M1 and near Enfield on the M4. Plans to open the remaining nine facilities, including one at Mountrath, were postponed indefinitely by the NRA due to a lack of Government funding.

Hauliers boycott Limerick Tunnel Hauliers are avoiding a €600m tunnel in Limerick, claiming that high toll charges cancel out any savings in fuel or time.

The Limerick Tunnel, which runs under the River Shannon and opened last July, forms part of the ring road around Limerick city. HGVs are charged €5.75 for a single journey and many are therefore choosing an alternative route that also avoids the city centre. “We don’t save enough in fuel to cover the costs,” says Sean Murtagh, MD of local company Freightshift Services, who fears the alternative route could also be tolled.

“Our drivers are instructed not to use it,” adds Martin Ryan, director of Martin Ryan & Sons Haulage, Cappamore. “There is no incentive to drop the price because the government subsidises it. The tunnel is operated by Direct Route. More than 3,000 fewer vehicles than expected (guaranteed, in fact) are using the tunnel per day, lead to the NRA paying Direct Route €1.25m compensation for the last quarter of 2010. The Irish Road Haulage Association has tried in vain to negotiate a better deal. Its members would use the tunnel if it was €3 less per journey.

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Varadkar: transport goals achieved Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar has detailed the achievements of his Department, and those of his Ministers of State, in the first 100 days of Government. Minister Varadkar said: ‘I am happy to confirm a wide range of achievements and reforms across my Department.

These have been introduced in the First 100 Days by myself, and Ministers of State Michael Ring and Alan Kelly’.

Transport Additional funding of €75 million to create or sustain 1,000 jobs, including: €60 million for road maintenance works to remedy some of the damage inflicted by two severe winters; Awarding €1 million for improvements at a number of commuter train stations; €14 million allocated specifically to smarter transport projects including cycle schemes, bus corridors, park and ride, and pedestrian facilities; Road Safety Introducing mandatory alcohol testing at the scene of a collision where someone has been injured; Preparing further wide-ranging measures on road safety for introduction or legislation later this year.

NOL invest in ships Shipping giant NOL has ordered 12 new boxships as it sets about plans to expand his business even further. The company is set to build 12 new containerships, while they have increased the size of ten that are already under construction. NOL said it was investing in larger vessels to “reduce unit capital and operating costs, meet future growth needs and replace older and smaller chartered vessels that would be returned to their owners”.

NOL also said it was also upgrading an order placed last year for ten 8,400teu ships to make them 9,200teu capacity each.

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