Irish Trucker magazine October

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OCTOBER 2012 Vol. 15 No. 9 EURO 2.95 stg.£2.50

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INDUSTRY NEWS MATTHEWS COACH HIRE Making headlines in 2012 KMK METAL RECYCLING LTD Leading player in its field of expertise FIRST CHOICE COMMERCIALS Tapping into the global market DUBLIN TANKER REPAIR SERVICES One stop shop for all road tanker repairs and servicing DOYLE CONCRETE Continuing to progress BUTLER’S BUSES LTD Providing a flexible service WATERFORD COUNTY & CITY COUNCILS Playing a vital role JUNCTION 14 MAYFIELD Independently owned motorway service area MCMANUS BROTHERS Irish Trucker speaks with Danny McManus Snr. REDCASTLE SKIP & RECYCLING Putting the customer first FLEET PLAN HIRE LTD. Vastly experienced hire company TD CALDWELL & SONS LTD One of the leading car dismantlers and scrap recycling businesses NEIL MULLEN TRANSPORT 16 years in business STRONGE HAULAGE LTD Specialists in bulk milk transportation FUREY’S COACHES Celebrating their 40th anniversary O’NEILL’S HEAVY HAULAGE Leaving rivals in its wake CRONIN’S COACHES One of Ireland’s premier coach touring service providers GREENHALL MOTORS Moving with the times IMVRA Irish Motor Vehicles Recyclers Association TEMPLE AUTO SALVAGE Specialists in vehicle dismantling GLANTRANS INTERNATIONAL CARRIERS Making huge strides AIDAN DOHERTY TRANSPORT Accumulated a wealth of experience TRADE COUNTER HOLDINGS Supply truck and trailer parts all over the world THOMAS CRILLY TRANSPORT Family run transport company CLASSIFIEDS

First Choice Commercials P32

Doyle Concrete P40

Butlers Buses Ltd P44

Neil Mullen Transport P68

Furey’s Coaches P75

DHL-B&Q’s Edward Fowell wins Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge 2012 The Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge 2012 has been won by DHL - B&Q driver Edward Fowell.

On hearing the announcement that he had won the gruelling fuel economy focused final he declared himself to be: “Overwhelmed, it’s marvellous. I couldn’t believe it,” he said, adding modestly. “I knew I’d done good, but not that good.”

Edward, who has been driving an LGV licence for nine years, drives a Volvo FH article for DHL on the B&Q contract.

After being presented with the Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge 2012 trophy Edward Fowell of DHL by Volvo Trucks Commercial Truck Director Ian Mitchell, he described the B&Q who has won the Volvo Trucks Driver competition as ‘very tough’ and the route as “very difficult, with lots of hills Chalenge 2012 and hairpin bends.”

Edward said that the secret to his success in taking the top spot from his fellow nine competitors in the final was down to forward planning, coasting and keeping the truck rolling. All of which were aided by the I-Shift gearbox which he described as ‘The Best.’

From its base at Volvo dealer Irish Commercial’s state of the art premises at Oranmore, near Galway, the Driver Challenge final itself was held over a tough 132 kilometre (82 mile) route around the West of Ireland counties of Galway and Mayo.

In addition to heavy traffic on the Galway ring road dual carriageway, the route also took in rural roads around part of Connemara. These included a vicious 1 in 4 (25%) gradient uphill double hairpin on the R345 between Cornamona and Clonbur, Co. Galway. The competition also had to navigate their way through the Saturday traffic on the congested main street in Cong, Co. Mayo.

The 10 finalists represented companies ranging in size from independent hauliers like Bacton Transport, David Watson and CJ Carruthers, to supermarkets ASDA and Sainsbury’s and logistics operators such as DHL - B&Q and NFT. The competitors in the final drove five identical Volvo FM11-450 6x2 tractor units coupled to a fleet of fully-freighted new trailers kindly loaned by Stobart Group.

The identical trailers were loaded to within a 0.05% of each other and a Volvo Trucks Driver Development trainer rode in each cab to ensure competitors followed the route.

The whole event was timed to coincide with the final in-port competition of the Volvo Ocean Race - the round-the-world yacht race - which was also underway in Galway the same weekend.

Nightline to invest Eu5m in new parcel motel offering for Irish consumers Nightline, the largest Irish domestic parcel delivery company, has today announced a €5 million investment in its new Nightline Parcel Motel service, the first of its kind in Ireland. With 20 units already installed in Dublin to be increased to 50 by the end of August and 100 by the end of the year, Nightline Parcel Motel will bring unrivalled convenience to Irish consumers and see the creation of approximately 50 jobs over the course of the nationwide roll-out. 10 of which have already been recruited at Nightlines HQ in Finglas. The Parcel Motel self service terminals will be located mainly at petrol station forecourts and convenience store car parking areas.

Each Nightline Parcel Motel unit consists of 80 storage lockers that online shoppers can have their purchases delivered to.

By simply setting up an account on www.parcelmotel.com and selecting the location of the unit most convenient to the customer, the purchase will be delivered to the selected Parcel Motel and stored safely for up to two days. Once the purchase has reached the Nightline Parcel Motel, a unique code will be sent to the customer’s mobile phone, which allows access to the locker containing the delivery. The delivery can be collected any time day or night 7 days.

Nightline CEO, John Tuohy said: “2012 marks the 20th anniversary of Nightline and as an indigenous Irish company we are proud to bring such an exciting innovation to Irish consumers. We undertook extensive consumer research and found a real desire for a secure and convenient service that allows online shoppers to take delivery of their purchases when and where it suits them.”

Mr Tuohy went on to state: “We believe that we are offering a practical, easy to use service for online shoppers that offers convenience and security. With the ever increasing growth of the e-Commerce market in Ireland, estimated to be worth €3.5 billion, we know that Nightline Parcel Motel will become a recognisable and important part of online shopping for communities around the country”.

Twenty Nightline Parcel Motel units are now in place in the greater Dublin area with plans for another 30 to be in place before the end of August and a further 50 by the end of this year. 2013 will see another 100 units rolled out nationwide, with a further 200 in place by 2014.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Mercedes-Benz gets Vito effect

Mercedes Benz Vito “Effect”

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Mercedes-Benz has introduced a special edition ‘Effect’ version of their popular Vito van on the Irish market.

The new Vito Effect comes with a range of features that includes full body colour coding, 18-inch light alloy wheel rims in titanium grey, chrome finish front and rear and a more dynamic side appearance.

Selling at an additional retail cost of only EUR1,800 plus VAT, the Vito Effect is available in panel van format or as a Mixto combined people carrier-cum-van version.

Body work is in three colour choices - arctic white, obsidian black and silver metallic.

Ford on top of CV market for 2012 In a market

Council back Poolbeg stance

down nearly 5 percent year to date, Ford looks set to retain its title as the number one brand in the commercial vehicle (CV) market in Ireland for 2012. Figures for the sector recently released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) show that Ford had sales of 1,647 vehicles up to the end of June. This compares with 1,475 for VW and 885 for Renault.

The overall CV market for the six month period to the end of June 2012 totalled 7,789 units, down 382 units (or 4.6 percent) from a total of 8,171 sales for the same period last year. With a 21.1 percent share of the 2012 sales, Ford managed to grow its share of the market, up from 19.7 percent in 2011.

“In a still weak market, it is heartening that Ford is maintaining and even growing its share,” said Ciaran McMahon, CV Sales & Marketing Manager for Ford Ireland. “The backbone of our success in the CV sector continues to be the Transit which has been Ireland’s number one van from when it arrived in Ireland nearly 50 years ago”.

Transit topped the charts in its segment with sales of 928 units so far this year. Transit was followed by Renault Traffic / Master range 640 units and VW Transporter / Crafter range with 438. With the launch of the all new Transit Custom model here in October, it looks like Transit will continue to dominate the sales charts for 2012 full year and into 2013.

Ford also achieved the number one spot in several other CV segments this year. Transit Connect (Long Wheel Base), Kuga Commercial and Fiesta Van each topped their segment sales chart.

“We are delighted with the success of our Kuga Commercial which has found great favour with a wide range of business customers who love its sporty looks but also appreciate its 4x4 capability for when you need that little bit more traction in your daily job”, concluded McMahon.

The Government’s new waste policy confirms the need for the incinerator at Poolbeg in Dublin, according to Dublin City Council. Assistant city manager Séamus Lyons said the Poolbeg plant “will be needed as long as waste available in the market continues to be landfilled”. His comments follow publication of the new national waste policy by Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan. Under the policy document A Resource Opportunity, the number of waste-planning regions for the State will be reduced from 10 to three, resulting in economies of scale and “greater efficiencies in the delivery of planning”, according to the Minister. Mr Lyons said this would mean even more waste would be available in the Dublin region to go to Poolbeg rather than to landfill. “There are no alternatives to Poolbeg available,” he said, adding that 1.19 million tonnes of waste was generated in the Dublin region in 2010. Mr Hogan said landfill capacity would be reached within 12 years and the policy aims to reduce the amount of waste generated. He confirmed that private sector operators would be allowed to operate freely but insisted they would have to adhere to strict new standards of service. Operators are charged a nominal licence fee, currently €1,000 per permit, which does not reflect the profits they are generating. Higher fees will contribute to enforcement of the permit system. The policy, accepted by Cabinet, overturns the programme for government commitment to allow local authorities to control which private companies collect waste.

Mr Hogan insisted operators would have to incentivise their customers to adopt more sustainable behaviour and would also have to be much more transparent about their charges.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Volvo Trucks introduces new FH Series Volvo independent

“A truck that will carry us far into the future.” front suspension That is how Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks, summarises the new versions of the Volvo FH and Volvo FH16 that will be released shortly.

On Wednesday September 5th Volvo Trucks will launch new versions of the best-selling Volvo FH and the prestigious Volvo FH16.

"For almost two decades, the Volvo FH Series has provided haulage companies with safety, efficient transport and high quality.

Now, with our new replacements, we are going to be even better in all three areas," says Claes Nilsson, President Volvo Truck Corporation.

SETTING A NEW STANDARD Never before has Volvo conducted so many tests among drivers and operators with the aim of ensuring that the new model meets the highest requirements. The result is a product that not only meets today's requirements; it also offers properties that nobody has previously experienced in a truck.

"It really is our customers who have influenced the end-product and I'm convinced that we're setting a new benchmark for the entire truck industry," says Claes Nilsson.

"MORE LIKE A CAR THAN A TRUCK" One prioritised goal in the development process was to create a truck with the market's best handling. Several structural improvements give the new Volvo FH series a stable and flexible design - something that can be seen in a film entitled ‘The Ballerina Stunt’ on www.volvotrucks.com/fh - where slackline walker Faith Dickey walks a tightrope between two trucks travelling at 80 km/h (50 mph) "We've surpassed our expectations. The Volvo FH is more like a car than a truck when it comes to precise response and confidence-inspiring directional stability," says Martin Palming, Product Manager at Volvo Trucks.

‘REVOLUTIONARY’ FRONT SUSPENSION With the new Volvo FH series comes a new Independent Front Suspension (IFS) system for left-hand drive heavy trucks, initially "The Volvo FH without IFS will be number one on the market, but IFS is all set to revolutionise handling in the truck world.

The Volvo FH with IFS will have the world's best road manners," says Martin Palming.

Independent front suspension means that each front wheel is suspended separately from the other so it does not affect the movement of the other wheel. Since both front wheels move independently, the result is gentler, more settled progress on the road. Now, because movements are not transmitted from one wheel to the other, the sense of precision and control also increases.

LAUNCH EVENT ON SEPTEMBER 5TH The world premiere and official launch of the Volvo FH Series will be held on September 5 th at 9pm CET in Gothenburg with parallel events being held in Madrid, Birmingham, Paris, Rotterdam and Brussels. In addition, you can follow the event live on the Internet, via www.volvotrucks.com/fh Interest in the launch event is immense. For obvious reasons, according to Claes Nilsson. "For more than 15 years now the Volvo FH has been a reliable growth engine for both Volvo Trucks and haulage companies the world over. The new Volvo FH will play the same significant role. It's an innovative truck that puts the driver in firm focus while at the same time allowing operators to do the best business possible. It's a truck that's going to carry us far into the future."

Recycling on the rise When it comes to recycling habits, Ireland is ranked seventh out of 27 EU countries in the latest statistics released. Repak says 652,000 tonnes of used packaging was recycled here last year - an increase of 4.1% on the previous year. This is a massive increase on previous years, even though only recently Ireland was blasted for its failure to meet EU standards with regards to waste management.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

New ferry operator sets sail on Dover-Calais My Ferry Link, the name of the new cross-Channel operator which is leasing three ex-SeaFrance vessels from Eurotunnel, has launched its maiden service on the Calais-Dover route. SeaFrance suspended it services in November last year and since then DFDS Seaways, in a joint-venture with LD Lines has launched a Calais-Dover service with two vessels while P&0 has increased its capacity on the strait too. My Ferry Link’s Director, Jean-Michel Giguet, played down the significance of the the Berlioz being almost empty when it left Calaisat. "What is important today is that we have taken to the sea and that the project on paper has become a reality," he said. "The task now is to develop our market share for passenger and freight traffic and we can count on a very professional and motivated workforce in order to do so. My Ferry Link will operate two vessels intially, each plying four daily round trips. Freighter vessel, Nord Pas de Calais, which is currently undergoing heavy maintenance, is expected to join the Berlioz and Rodin in November, Giguet explained. Giguet recently told Lloyds Loading List.com that My Ferry Link, which is run along the lines of a workers co-operative, had so far hired between 180 and 190 staff comprising both crew and commercial posts - the majority being ex-SeaFrance workers. The number also includes 20 UK-based posts. With three vessels in service, the payroll could rise to between 500 and 550 during 2013, around 70 of those based in the UK, Giguet added. The launch of the My Ferry Link service has gone ahead before regulators in the UK and France have decided whether the acquisition of the ships by Eurotunnel breached of competition rules.

My Ferry Link has launched its maiden service on the Calais-Dover route

UK government funding for low carbon truck trials The British government is to contribute £11m to a scheme that aims to encourage road haulage operators in the UK to buy and use low carbon commercial vehicles. Tesco, John Lewis, Robert Wiseman Dairies and Howard Tenens are among the thirteen companies leading trials in the £23m programme, which will be managed by the Technology Strategy Board in partnership with the Department for Transport and the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.Freight minister Mike Penning said: “These trials will reduce CO2 emissions from freight and provide important information from a range of real-life situations that will increase industry confidence in low carbon trucks in the long term.” Other demonstrator trials will be carried out by: Ascott Transport, Brit European Transport, CNG Services, Howard Tenens, T Baden Hardstaff, Tesco, The BOC Group. More than 300 lowcarbon commercial vehicles will be involved in the demonstration programme. The demonstration trial fleets will be run for two years, during which time usage data will be gathered and analysed by the Department for Transport.

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Roadcrew Trailer parts catalogue ‘Best in Industry’ In a major initiative to continue to broaden the range of parts offered, Roadcrew have launched the company’s first trailer parts catalogue.

Described by Roadcrew Managing Director James Charnock as ‘the best in the industry right now’, the catalogue covers all major product groups, including axles, suspension, air brakes, electrical and many other general trailer components.

The majority of the Volvo dealer network has increased trailer parts stocks in line with the Roadcrew catalogue launch.

Roadcrew Trailer parts training sessions Trailer Parts have been held with every Catalogue dealer.

Parts can be ordered from the Roadcrew trailer parts catalogue via the Volvo dealer network. With James Charnock reporting that Roadcrew trailer parts availability is ‘excellent’ and dealer stock replenishment is overnight via the Volvo Parts warehouse at Rugby.

Emphasising that buying trailer parts from the Volvo dealers is competitive with the factors, James Charnock reported that trailer parts is a growing area of business for the Volvo dealer network.

“By launching the Roadcrew trailer parts catalogue we are encouraging customers to give Volvo dealers the chance to quote on their parts requirements,” concluded James Charnock.

The Roadcrew trailer parts catalogue is available from Volvo dealers in both printed and electronic formats as a PDF or a CD. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Freight drivers top up with Stena Line Stena Line’s Loch Ryan Port facility at Cairnryan has just added a new 24 hr dedicated fuelling facility to help haulage companies and their drivers plan their journeys across the Irish Sea more efficiently. The innovation between Stena Line and Nicholl Fuel Oils, one of the largest suppliers of fuel to the haulage industry in the UK and Ireland, will see a 55,000 litre refuelling tank being located within Loch Ryan Port and available for use by hauliers on a 24 hr basis.

Paul Grant, Route Director Cairnryan-Belfast said: “Since the opening of our new £80m Loch Ryan Port last November the feedback from our customers has been extremely positive. When designing the port we wanted to make sure that we catered for our freight drivers as well as our leisure travel customers. The provision of a dedicated refuelling facility in the heart of our new port operation is something that our freight customers have been telling us would be a real advantage to them when it comes to planning and coordinating their fleets and journeys. We believe that the new refuelling facility will provide Loch Ryan Port with a unique facility helping to streamline and minimise fuel consumption, which in the current economic climate is a very important consideration and a real plus for the haulage industry. The new facility is now live and we’re looking forward to a positive response from our freight customers.”

Gary Nicholl, Sales Director from Nicholl Fuel Oils commented: “We are delighted to be working with Stena Line on such a unique project for the benefit of the haulage industry. Operating under the Star Fuel brand name the new facility accepts major fuel cards including DCI, Topaz, UK Fuels, Fast Fuel and EDC. Furthermore, the new refuelling point will also offer red diesel for those transporting refrigerated units, an important segment of the haulage industry between Scotland and Northern Ireland.”

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KIA Motors Ireland and Total Lubricants through Finol Oils join forces - Finol Oils becomes Kia’s recommended partner for automotive lubricants KIA Motors Ireland and Finol Oils, Irish distributors of Total Lubricants, have entered into a three- year agreement at a signing held on August 1st 2012 at KIA Motors Ireland headquarters in Calmount, Dublin.

Under the terms of the agreement, Finol Oils becomes Kia Motors Ireland recommended partner for the sale of lubricants across all KIAs after sales service centres in Ireland. This agreement follows a global five-year agreement between Total Lubrifiants and KIA Motors Corporation signed on 22 nd March 2011, which covered the entire world except Europe and South Korea.

The KIA after sales service network will receive access to high performance Total Quartz automotive Engine Oils & lubricants as well as Mr Dominick Purcell (left) CEO Finol Oils, Mr Luke Messitt (Centre) Head of training on lubricants from the experienced Finol Network Development & Aftersales, KIA Motors Ireland and Mr Sean Holland (right) Managing Director Finol Oils Ltd. signing the agreement at KIA Motors Ireland Area Managers through which KIA will be able to headquarters in Calmount, Dublin. further improve its customer loyalty.

KIA Motors Ireland and Finol Oils attach the same levels of importance to performance, innovation and reliability. Through this partnership KIA and Finol confirm shared aims of strengthening their growing presence in the Irish marketplace and working together on delivering highquality products and services that meet their customers’ requirements.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Glanbia picks Culina for UK expansion Glanbia has chosen Culina to manage the distribution of their chilled products into the UK market

New Statoil discovery Statoil has discovered oil at the Geitungen prospect in the North Sea.For Norway’s largest oil company, the discovery represents a potential expansion of the Johan Sverdrup deposit – the country’s largest oil find since 1974.The equivalent of 270 million barrels of recoverable oil has been found at Geitungen, three kilometres north of the Sverdrup discovery. "The Geitungen discovery will be included in the ongoing development work for the Johan Sverdrup field," Oeivind Reinersten, Statoil's head of Johan Sverdrup field development, confirmed in the statement. The company added that data indicates that there is probably a link between the two finds.The Johan Sverdrup discovery has been estimated to hold as much as 3.3 billion barrels of oil equivalent and Statoil is operator for the production license with a 40% stake. Petoro has a 30% stake, Det Norske Oljeselskap 20% and Lundin Petroleum 10%.

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Dairy producer Glanbia Consumer Foods has appointed Culina to manage the distribution of chilled products into the UK market. Glanbia is based in Ireland but historically, the company’s consumer goods division has had a low profile in the UK. It has reached an agreement with WeightWatchers, which did not have a butter product in the UK, to supply two new low fat products into the UK’s butter and spreads category. It chose Culina after assessing the market. It had previously worked with smaller service providers for its existing UK contracts but these could not meet its requirements for larger capacity to support major brands. UK country manager William Wake said: “To be successful we needed a supply chain partner that offered a full range of services and scalability to grow with us.”

Renault Premium Race Truck takes pole position at Brian Daly One of Ireland’s leading warehousing and logistics companies, Brian Daly Transport, has taken delivery of a new Renault Premium Truck Racing Special Series tractor unit as the new flagship truck on Brian Daly Transport has its 36-strong taken delivery of a new Renault Truck Racing fleet.The special Special Series tractor unit edition Renault Premium 460.25 6x2 LD TML truck was supplied by through the local Renault Trucks dealer, Setanta Vehicle Sales, and was purchased following outstanding fuel figures from previous Renault Premiums on the fleet. The truck has the Optidriver+ automated gearbox and will undertake collection and delivery for Brian Daly Transport’s major client, Coca Cola, across the whole of Ireland. The new Premium is the latest Renault truck to join Brian Daly Transport’s fleet, as part of an on-going programme which will see the company replacing Scania and DAF to eventually run an all-Renault fleet by mid 2013. Brian Daly, Managing Director, Brian Daly Transport, says: “One of the main reasons we are moving to an all-Renault fleet is the tremendous fuel savings we have achieved from our current Renaults. The new Premiums are running at 9-9.5 mpg, compared to 7-7.5mpg on the older DAFs, which is outstanding.” After sales service was also cited at a key reason for the move to Renault: “We have a great relationship with Setanta, who always offer us a quick turnaround, meaning very little downtime. We are delighted with the new Premium.

Its ‘racing inspired’ design looks fantastic on the road and it also has the lowest fuel consumption and the best payload on the market.” Brian Daly Transport is a family owned and managed company, founded in 1992 by John Daly and transferred to his son Brian in 2007. The company offers a complete warehousing and distribution service from its new, purpose built premises in Balycoolin, Blanchardstown. Its loyal and growing customer base includes Coca Cola, STL and British Sugar. The company delivers five million cases of Coca Cola products a year across Ireland IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Michelin celebrates production of 30 millionth tyre at Ballymena Tyre production at the Michelin plant In Ballymena has passed the 30 million mark, creating another milestone in the history of what is the only tyre production facility of its kind in Ireland. In operation since 1969, the Ballymena plant produces truck and bus tyres, ninety-five percent of which is exported globally. Employing over 950 people, the plant has a yearly capacity of 1.4 million tyres as well as being the rubber processing facility for Michelin’s other sites at Dundee and Stoke-on-Trent. The event also marks the beginning of production in Ballymena of a new dimension in the Michelin X MultiWay 3D truck tyre range.

Launched last year, this high-traction, all-weather tyre is designed to generate grip in difficult climatic conditions and, with its lower rolling resistance, increase total mileage performance.

Sweden to allow larger Norwegian trucks Norway’s trucking industry has reached an agreement with Sweden that will permit Norwegian trucks with a tonnage in excess of 40 tonnes to operate cross-border routes and deliveries without the imposition of fines and penalties.

Road haulage industry organisations in Denmark and Finland are also expected to reach separate agreements with Sweden in the near future to overcome problems that arose when Swedenen forced stricter EU long-trailer tonnage rules in July. Nordic truckers complained that their transports in Swedenwere covered by a formal pan-Nordic agreement reached in 2006 and which excluded them from the EU-directive. "The change in the rules caused a lot of frustration. We have spent three weeks negotiating a settlement. The changes threatened to create extra costs for Norwegian truckers. They also raised concerns about the value of transporting goods by road through Sweden," said Guttorm Tysnes, a spokesman for Norges Lastebileier-Forbund, Norway’s hauliers association. The background to the implementation of new haulage tonnage rules emerged after a district court in Sweden convicted a Swedish truck driver for being in charge of a long-trailer vehicle which the court deemed was carrying an excess load. Sweden’s Road Traffic Police Department interpreted the ruling as applying to all foreign trucks travelling through Sweden, and police stops were organised to enforce EU regulations governing length and load, which is a maximum of 18,75 metres and 40 tonnes. Truckers in Norway, Finland and Denmark were incensed by the Swedish action, which they felt breached the terms of the special regional haulage agreements that allowed Nordic truck drivers to carry heavier loads on longer vehicles than was permitted in the EU rules.

"The conflict is now resolved. It can sometimes take several years to solve these types of conflicts, but Nordic cooperation worked in this instance. The alternative would have meant costly investments by trucking firms and independents to upgrade their fleet," said Tysnes.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

TRANSPORT MANAGER SOUTHERN IRELAND OPERATOR INTERNATIONAL CPC HOLDER ESSENTIAL HOURS FLEXIBLE

LOCATION NOT IMPORTANT CAN BE HOME BASED Please Contact: JASON on +44 (0) 7753584565 or email jason@dfteuro.co.uk New Pet passport system activated Dublin-based freight forwarder EFL International Distribution has become the first company in Ireland to be approved under the Irish Government’s ‘Pet Passport System’. The first clients to use the company’s new mobile veterinary unit under the scheme will be two cats originating from Thailand.

The development follows changes in European legislation relating to the movement of pet animals within the EU, as well as international moves to and from EU countries.

Originally, in December 2011, EFL International was authorised by the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, to operate as a carrier of pets imported into Ireland from other EU member states, but only using a government veterinary clinic. Now, however, the company is also authorised to use its own mobile clinic to offer full transportation services to pet cats and dogs under regulation 6 of the European Communities (Pet Passport) Regulations 2012. This allows EFL International to provide full document and animal examination of pets arriving from countries considered to be of high risk for animal diseases, services that to date were only available at one Government-approved veterinary clinic six kilometres from Dublin Airport. EFL managing director, Eddie Mullin, says: “With our government approval, EFL is now the first company in Ireland that is able to manage the complete importation process for pets, from all parts of the world.

“This includes customs clearance, veterinary examination and documentation checks to ensure a safe and speedy release of the animal to its owner. The service is provided from a mobile veterinary unit, by a registered and approved veterinary surgeon working with a member of our pet specialist team on the day the animal arrives into Ireland."

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Driving test prospects depend on where you live There is a stark geographical variation in driving test pass rates. Official rates have revealed that pass rates in the driving test vary greatly depending on where you do your test. The significant variations in pass and fail rates appear in an unpublished Road Safety Authority report, which were disclosed by the Irish Independent. With on average half of all learners still failing the test, there is a full 28% swing between the easiest and most difficult driving test centres in the country. While two-thirds of drivers passed the test in Ennis during 2011, just over one in three passed in Kilkenny and Rathgar. But the RSA, which operates test centres, has defended the variation, pointing out that it is in line with trends in other countries and claiming that numerous factors are at play. Centres with the highest pass rates are Ennis (67.92%), Clifden (65.94%) and Sligo (66.54%). The lowest number of passes were recorded in Kilkenny (39.7%), Rathgar (39.78%) and Finglas (40.8%).

DHL delivers ahead of Irish Paralympic athletes quest for success DHL, the world’s leading logistics company and “Official Logistics Partner” to the 2012 Irish Paralympic Team - has successfully delivered over eight tonnes of sports equipment and kit to London.

Earlier in August, DHL Global Forwarding, the air and ocean freight specialist within Deutsche Post DHL, moved a full 45ft truck load of supplies from Dublin to the Irish teams pre-Games training camp in Portugal, before repacking and transporting the specialist kit and equipment onwards for use at the London games.“We are thrilled to be involved with Paralympics Ireland and this partnership has a perfect fit for us. Timing here was critical to ensure the athletes have everything they need, when they need it. DHL Global Forwarding has the ideal network infrastructure to ensure that the equipment arrived when and where it was needed to support our elite Paralympic athletes. We are right behind the Irish team’s pursuit of success in London 2012 and the whole DHL team in Ireland will be cheering them on to victory”, says Maurice Meade, Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding Ireland. Liam Harbison, CEO of Paralympics Ireland, said that the support of DHL Global Forwarding was invaluable. “There has been a significant logistics challenge involved in consolidating all of the athletes equipment from all over the Country, moving it from Dublin to Portugal and then, repacking it and getting it the Games in London – and all without interruption to our athletes training. We are delighted with the backing and support of DHL Global Forwarding and we enjoyed peace of mind that everything would arrive on time and in tact .”

12

Coach operators call for fuel excise duty rebate The Coach Tourism and Transport Council is asking for a significant rebate on excise duty on fuel.The Council says rising fuel costs may result in the loss of jobs in the tourism sector and that the beleaguered coach tourism industry – similar to the haulage sector - cannot sustain itself, given the cost of diesel.

They argue that the high price of fuel has eroded their competitiveness and that an inability to absorb these on going increases will lead to tourists choosing coach tour holidays in cheaper destinations. The CCTC is calling on the Government to re-introduce the excise duty rebate, which would enable them to recoup 30 cent for every litre of diesel purchased. CEO Gerry Mullins points out that Irish coach tour companies are losing out to providers from the North and Britain.

IRHA warns that more haulage firm closures will occur The Irish Road Haulage Association has warned that while the recent announcement of the closure of Target Express is very concerning it is only a reflection of the current state of emergency which exists within the Irish road haulage industry in Ireland. With the loss of almost four hundred jobs associated with Target Express, the IRHA fears that unless Government stem the tide of ever increasing fuel prices there will be thousands more job losses before Christmas. President of the IRHA Eoin Gavin stated after the announcement “The industry is in dire straits at the present time. The price of diesel is rapidly increasing and the Government are very slow to react and prevent further closures of transport company’s and the loss of associated jobs”.Mr Gavin went on to say “The current working environment is simply not sustainable for our members and we cannot and will not be able to maintain the current level of employment within the sector. There are 50,000 people, inclusive of ancillary jobs, employed within the industry and without the introduction of an Essential User Fuel Rebate (EUR) for tax compliant, licensed operators that level of employment will drop dramatically over the coming months. Government intervention is urgently required in order to continue to facilitate our export led economic recovery.”

H.J. Heinz Co. and CEVA announce transformational Oceanfreight agreement H. J. Heinz Company (NYSE: HNZ) and CEVA Logistics, one of the world’s leading non-asset based supply chain management companies, has announced a groundbreaking five year Oceanfreight contract. In a strategy led by Heinz’s global procurement organization, the agreement represents the first time that a shipper with an annual volume of 60,000 TEUs (Twenty foot Equivalent Units) has entrusted a single logistics provider with exclusive management of its Oceanfreight. The benefits of this agreement for Heinz include a considerable complexity reduction, enhanced supply chain visibility and reduced supply chain cost. This contract is further evidence of CEVA’s strong growth in Oceanfreight, one of the company’s key strategic priorities.

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Volvo Trucks’ stunt is a big hit on Youtube A young woman walks a slackline between two Volvo trucks driving at full speed: not even in Hollywood has this stunt ever been attempted. Now the film about the stunt is a massive success on YouTube and within nine days, more than 4.8 million people have seen the film. The woman on the line is American slackliner Faith Dickey. She is the world recordholder in highlining, a young sport which is all about walking on a line as high and far as possible. "I'm used to heights, long lines and lines that sway in the wind, but those lines are firmly anchored to cliff-faces. Walking a line attached to two moving points is something quite different," says Faith Dickey.

Never been done before When the Hollywood team behind the film first heard the idea they were dumbstruck.

"And here was I thinking that every imaginable stunt had already been done. The fact is that nobody has ever before walked a line between two moving trucks. It felt like an enormous challenge, and it's challenges that get me going," says Peter Pedrero, who normally works with stunts in films such as James Bond, Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Oscar-nominated director behind the film The film's director is Oscar-nominated Henry Alex Rubin, whose feature film Disconnect starring Sweden's Alexander Skarsgård is currently playing in cinemas.

"My favourite kind of shoot is when someone tells me something is impossible to film. When I hear no, it makes me want to move mountains," he says "Faith Dickey is the same way. Tell her "no" and it will fuel her. She humbled and amazed myself and the entire crew with her courage. This stunt started off as a way to test the precision of Volvo's massive 16-wheeled trucks and ended up being just as much a testament to guts and courage." adds Henry Alex Rubin.

Not for the reckless The film was recorded on an almost completed new stretch of motorway in Croatia, with no oncoming traffic. The stunt looks very dramatic but, as you'd expect, safety was of paramount importance for Volvo Trucks, as well as for stunt coordinator Peter Pedrero.

"Stunts are not for the reckless. Safety always comes first. You have to prepare for the worst possible scenario at all times and plan for how to deal with it. Preparation down to the tiniest detail, meticulous planning - they're absolutely vital," reveals Peter Pedrero.

Superior handling made it possble The driving force behind the film is Volvo Trucks. The aim is to highlight the driveability and superior handling of the company's latest truck model - the new Volvo FH. The stunt was possible to carry out due to the excellent stability and handling of the new Volvo FH. It was thanks to this stability that both trucks could maintain a steady gap throughout the stunt. (See an interview with one of the drivers on YouTube - see below) "It's not enough simply to say that we are good. We wanted to demonstrate just how much progress we've made in the area of both driveability and handling," says Ulf Nordqvist, project manager for the new Volvo FH series.

The world premiere and official launch of the Volvo FH Series will be held on September 5th at 8pm GMT and the launch event will be webcast live at www.volvotrucks.com/fh.

Cork bucks the trend in Ireland The port of Cork has reported increased cargo volumes of over 5% for the first six months of 2012. This is in strong contrast with figures from the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) which show an overall decrease in shipping volumes across the country’s six main seaports in the first half of the year. Container traffic increased by over 5% compared with the same period in 2011, with imports up nearly 6% and exports up almost 5%.

Figures for the main ports overall show a decline in imports of 4% and a decline in exports of 2% for the first six months. Dry bulk cargo also continued to perform well at Cork, as did oil traffic. CEO Brendan Keating said the portof Corkwas perfectly placed as a trading hub for European and US markets with its deep water facilities.

He added: “We are continuing to expand and grow our facilities to meet customers’ demands."

14

Stoneridge Ireland launches new website Stoneridge SE5000

Already an established distributor of Stoneridge Electronics, MMC Commercials was recently appointed the exclusive distributor for the brand in Ireland.

And now they have launched a dedicated new website for the Irish market – www.stoneridge.ie.

Stoneridge Electronics is a worldwide market leader in the design and manufacture of vehicle electronic components, which ranges from telematics and driver information systems to tachographs.

The new Irish website will allow customers to review the entire range of Stoneridge products and accessories, including the ability to estimate how much time they could gain by employing the Stoneridge system.

The site will also provide access to specialist product support while also acting as a hub for the 41 authorised Stoneridge workshops throughout Ireland.

MMC Commercials is also the importer and distributor for Mitsubishi Motors and FUSO Trucks in Ireland and is part of the Frank Keane Group.

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Scania Ring of Kerry Truck Run

The 4th Annual Scania Ring of Kerry truck run takes place on the 6th and 7th of October . It is one of the largest fund raisers for local and national charities with the Childrens Leukemia assoc. , build 4 life and Brothers of Charity sharing over 60000 euro over the last 3 years . We invite truck drivers from all over to attend this unique event which starts in killarney and travels through some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland . There is an overnight in Sneem with a night of music and craic with the run concluding in killarney the following day . For more information on this event please contact Ger Culloty on 087 2646136 or Tony Nolan on 087 2906923

Motorists reminded of new seatbelt offences Gardai have reminded Irish motorists of new offences regarding the wearing of seatbelts. Motorists will now be subject to seven new penalty point offences which recently into force - mainly relating to seatbelts.

From now on, drivers will be penalised for allowing passengers under 17 years of age to travel without a seatbelt. Also, children under three must be properly restrained, and must not be placed in a rear-facing seat in the front of a vehicle with an airbag. Garda patrol vehicles will apparently be out in force to monitor driver behaviour and to hand out the relevant punishment to those who break the law.

New car registrations down by 12% The registration of new cars is down by 12% so far in 2012, with a fall of 10,093 up to the end of July.

71,065 new cars were registered from January to July, with July sales at 4,431 - up 352 on last year.

However, there was an abnormal spike in registrations on July 31st, when five times the daily average number of cars was registered. Thus, the monthly total went from a potential 11% drop to a 10% increase.

Motorcheck.ie’s co-founder Shane Teskey told The Irish Times: “The abnormal spike in registrations at the end of last month could signal an increase in tactical registrations as part of the manufacturers’ sales strategy. “When overall sales drop below a certain threshold, tactical registrations can make a significant impact on an individual brand’s market share. “Preregistered cars with little or no mileage may offer an attractive alternative to the consumer who lacks the confidence to purchase brand new. This can mean some great offers on ‘nearly new’ cars sitting on forecourts.”

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A survey of Irish drivers has shown that nearly a third of respondents (29 percent) feel that learner drivers are “just about bearable so long as they don’t get in my way”. That was one of the key findings from the survey which was carried out by Semperit Tyres Ireland as part of the company’s Semperit Road-user Courtesy campaign.

When asked what irritates them most about learner drivers, some 40 percent of respondents highlighted learners’ tendency to get the basics of driving wrong, e.g. stalling at traffic lights, not indicating properly or sloppy lane discipline.

Driving too slowly was another bugbear of respondents. For this reason, nearly half of drivers (47 percent) say they generally look to overtake a learner driver at the first opportunity rather than be “delayed”. For a significant minority (8 percent), the desire to get past a learner has meant that they have in the past driven recklessly to overtake a car with L-plates.

Paddy Murphy from Semperit Tyres Ireland said: “Safety is of paramount importance to us in Semperit and that was the reason we carried out the survey. We would urge all experienced drivers to exercise that bit more caution when they encounter a learner on the road. We were dismayed to find that nearly one in ten drivers have driven recklessly to get past a learner. Our advice to drivers is to stay calm and be patient – most often, the time gained from overtaking and driving faster is really negligible”.

In what seems like a vicious cycle, nearly three quarters of respondents (74 percent) say that during their time as learner drivers, they found the behaviour of other drivers stressful and / or intimidating. Tailgating was highlighted as a regular intimidating tactic of other drivers. Nearly 10 percent reported other drivers shouting abuse or giving hand signals during their time as learner drivers.

The vast majority of drivers would like to see enforcement of the rule whereby learner drivers must be accompanied at all times by an experienced driver. 84 percent of respondents say that it is obvious that this rule is regularly flouted on the roads.

Murphy concluded: “Life is stressful enough, let’s reduce stress on the roads. If we could all be a little more courteous on the road, it really will reduce stress and improve road safety!”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Topaz scoops major awards Topaz was the big winner at the 2012 Irish Logistics & Transport Awards, at which the country’s leading fuel supplier received two awards, including the Overall Logistics & Transport Excellence Award. Topaz’ meteoric rise to excellence continued on March 15th last when the fuels and convenience retailer stole the show at the 2012 Irish Logistics & Transport Awards gala dinner in Dublin. Topaz took home the Overall Logistics & Transport Excellence Award and the Logistics & Transport Client/Supplier Achievement Award. Richard Curran of RTE’s Dragon’s Den was compere for the prestigious event, which is held annually by the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT). It was attended by 350 industry representatives from all over Ireland. The awards attracted over 100 entries, and the judges commented on the fact that very high standards made it extremely difficult to choose the eventual winners. But it’s clear that the judges were in agreement that the Topaz entry was a cut above the rest. Topaz’ Operations Team Leader Mark Koller, who was on hand to receive both awards from CILT president Aidan Murphy, said it was a tremendous achievement for such a young company to win the Overall Award. “It’s our first time in the three years of these awards and to receive the Overall Award and we’re absolutely delighted. He commented “We were hopeful of winning the Client/Supplier Achievement Award, but to win the Overall Award as well was an unexpected bonus. We strive for continuous improvement in all that we do. It’s in our brand DNA and brought to life in our brand tagline “That’s better”. This award is further recognition that our pursuit of excellence has paid off once again.” As well as a philosophy of continuous improvement in all that they do, Koller puts Topaz’ success down to some other factors also. The Operations Team have a strong focus on innovation.

This is demonstrated in their clever and strategic use of a tailored stock management package. The team also demonstrate a clear ability to work collaboratively to create efficiencies. They worked with their haulage partners Wincanton and Reynolds to develop a system of careful planning and resourcing to improve fleet utilization while saving costs. Customer Service is integral to the running of Topaz Business and their World-Class standards are evident yet again in a recent study carried out by Behaviour and Attitudes. In this study, 99% of their licensees gave Topaz the top ratings of either Excellent or Good for customer service. An increase of 6% on 2010. Only a few weeks earlier, Topaz was named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies in the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme.

The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme, in association with Irish Life Corporate Business, recognizes indigenous Irish companies which operate at the highest levels of business performance. To be recognized, as one of the best managed companies in Ireland is a great tribute to all of our staff. It’s easy to forget that the Topaz brand was only officially launched in February 2008, and we’ve clearly come a long way since then. He added: “Our managers and employees are our greatest asset and our success comes from working together in partnership on a daily basis. These awards recognize the efforts of the 1,500 staff working in 350 Topaz outlets across the country.” Topaz Energy Ltd., which has its headquarters in Clonskeagh, Dublin 4, is Ireland’s largest fuel convenience brand with a presence in every major town across the island of Ireland. 100% Irish owned and managed, Topaz was formed by Ion Equity in 2005 when they bought the Irish operations of Shell and Statoil.Topaz is committed to creating a better experience for its customers every day. In addition, the company is committed to setting the highest standards in innovation, product choice and customer service. Topaz is particularly proud of its national network of home heat distributors as it takes in every city, town and village in Ireland. The company marks a change for the better, where service, convenience and quality standards are as important as its responsibilities to the environment. Everything it does, Topaz tries to do that little bit better; from its efficient fuels, which offers more kilometers per gallon, offering Fair Trade coffee to offering delicious quality fresh food and always welcoming customers with a warm smile and ‘hello, please and thank-you’. Topaz is taking a fresh approach to how things are done – so why not pop in and see for yourself.

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Easytrip service resumes at the ‘All New’ Setanta Car Park in Dublin City Centre Easytrip, Ireland’s only provider of electronic tolling and parking payment services, has today announced that from Friday, July 13th, 2012, its parking service will resume at Setanta Car Park in Dublin 2. Customers can use their Easytrip tags to pay for parking now that the facility’s extensive upgrade is complete.

The re-launch of Setanta has seen a complete transformation of the 35 year-old parking facility into the flagship car park in Ireland for owners, Q-Park. This year Q-Park celebrates its 10th anniversary of operations in Ireland and the occasion will be marked by the re-launch of Setanta Car Park. The car park has been substantially refurbished over the last few months and has been given a state of the art makeover, giving customers a unique parking experience. As well as the latest technologies, Setanta now provides a suite of on-site services, available free-of-charge to all customers. Services include, AEDs (defibrillators), umbrellas, children’s buggies and car battery starter packs, plus the car park is available to customers 24/7.

Commenting on the re-launch and Easytrip’s part in the newly refurbished car park, Ray Peers, Managing Director of Q-Park states, ”We are so proud of the new Setanta Place car park. We believe that we have delivered a state-of-the-art facility unlike any other in Dublin City and indeed, this is what customers have now come to demand and expect from Q-Park. So too, with the Easytrip service, we are keeping customers at the cutting edge of technological developments and we are delighted to continue our long established association with Easytrip’s electronic parking service as part of this major re-launch.”

Whether for business or private use, Setanta provides secure parking with 225 spaces, more evidence that Easytrip is fast becoming the payment method of choice at key car park locations around Ireland.

Dermot MacEvilly, CEO of Easytrip, explains the company’s history with Setanta, “It’s great news for our customers that they can now avail of Q-Park’s flagship car park at Setanta. We congratulate Q-Park on their 10-year anniversary in Ireland and we are proud to be associated with this, the very first car park to adopt the Easytrip service in Ireland. We celebrate the fact that our customers can once more use their tag in such a high profile and modern car park in Dublin city centre. We hope that with such an advancement it will help to attract even more new business to our unique service offering of tolling and parking from a single tag,” Easytrip customers who have activated the parking service can now go back to Setanta and use their tag to pay for parking from July 13th and no longer need to take a ticket when entering any of Easytrip’s listed car parks. Those who have opted for tolling only, can simply switch on parking by logging into their account at www.easytrip.ie or by contacting Easytrip directly at Lo call 1890 67 67 68 or from the UK & Northern Ireland on 0844 544 6767.

To celebrate the re-launch and the refurbishment, the first 10 Easytrip customers to use the service at the new Setanta car park, will each receive complimentary parking to the value of €50 (incl. of VAT) across any of the Q-Park car parks. Terms and conditions apply.

For further information on any Easytrip service or car park facility locations please see www.easytrip.ie or email info@easytrip.ie.

2012 Annual report shows that Tracs now represents over 90% of Irish tyre compliance The TRACS 2012 annual report shows that TRACS is successfully maintaining its reputation as Ireland’s first, largest and leading tyre monitoring and compliance scheme. Statistically adjusted figures show overall membership has increased significantly with well over 90% of the sector as a whole now signed up to the TRACS (Tyre Recovery Activity Compliance Scheme).

Towards the end of 2011, the number of members in TRACS had reached approximately 630, by company, representing over 750 sites. 84% of producers/importers, 68% of retail outlets, 60% of wholesalers and 82% of waste collectors by unit have now become members of TRACS. Through increased participation in the waste management process, TRACS’ members have been positively changing the way the industry as a whole perceives its waste obligations.

2011 figures show that 47.59% of waste tyres were crumbed for conversion into saleable products, 11.18% of waste tyres were exported whole for further treatment and 21.48% were baled. 12.75% were shredded. Most exports (baled and whole) as well as shredded tyres are usually processed as tyre derived fuel. Over 150k waste tyres were reported by waste collectors as given to farmers. These figures show good waste management practices of the waste tyres collected.

According to TRACS director Fiacra Quinn, “With increased sector compliance has come a wider industry and public understanding of TRACS’ important role in monitoring and tracking the proper channelling of waste tyre material. We call on any still unregistered collectors of end of life tyres to sign up with TRACS and to deal with their waste in an ethical and responsible manner. TRACS also urges all retailers to deal ONLY with registered and authorised waste collectors and to look for a RECOVERY CERTIFICATE as proof of authenticity.”

Co-operation between TRACS and relevant authorities has steadily increased over the past year, with TRACS reporting monthly to the local authorities and the DECLG on the entire known supply chain and waste collectors in Ireland, those who are participating in TRACS, those not participating, and those farmers who have received tyres.

While most responsible operators are now TRACS members, there are still a number of small and transient operators in an increasingly fragmented market. TRACS has made notable inroads in convincing many of these new players to make responsible waste management decisions for the benefit of themselves and their customers.

TRACS sits on the National Waste Forum representing the industry and shared its expertise in relation to waste tyre management with the Northern Ireland Assembly Environment Committee during 2011.

TRACS is fully committed to challenging and changing industry behaviour for the better. More information including a full list of importers, manufacturers, retailers and waste collectors in Ireland who have registered with TRACS is available on the TRACS website. www.tracsireland.ie

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Driving to success The coach industry has been subject to many changes in recent years, but one Monaghan based company has gone to a whole new level.

W

hen one mentions the name Matthews Coach Hire, or its Managing Director Paddy Matthews, most people now instantly recognise the company which has featured so prominently in the news in recent times.

Having gained a reputation for delivering a top quality service over the last 17 years, Matthews Coach Hire are continuously looking at ways of improving the service offered to their large customer base.

Founded in 1995 by husband and wife team Paddy and Mary Matthews, Matthews employs 72 people and has a fleet of 35 vehicles across commuter, tour and corporate hire services.

This family-run business, which is headquartered in Inniskeen, has gone from strength to strength over the years and provides a wide range of services including tours, commuter services, corporate hire and private coach hire.

This has been an interesting year for the company so far and Paddy tells Irish Trucker why they have made TV headlines and the pages of a host of national newspapers on two separate occasions in 2012.

20

The BBC featured Matthews Coaches in a documentary earlier this year about their innovative and unique use of the alcolock system.

Matthews is the only Irish transport company to employ alcolock devices in its fleet.

Alcolocks are connected to a vehicle's ignition system and activated by the driver blowing into a tube.

They will prevent a vehicle's engine starting if the driver's alcohol level exceeds a pre-set safety limit. If a driver stops for more than 30 minutes, the system will re-set, so they will have to do another test.

According to Paddy, he made the decision to install the devices on his coaches after a 2007 bus crash that happened in England.

“I saw a piece on the news about a driver who crashed in the UK and it was found that he was over the drink drive limit,” said Paddy.

“It got me thinking about ways of avoiding this and we looked into it from there.”

Four years ago the devices were attached to immobiliser IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

An impressive view of the Matthews Coach Hire fleet

units on all vehicles in the Matthews fleet.

The company has 70 drivers and they are quite happy to have to pass the test, in front of passengers, before they can put the key in the ignition. “In 2008 we when introduced the alcohol interlock, or alcolock systems as they are more commonly known, and they have proven to be a huge success.

All our drivers know the standards we demand and they are comfortable with that.�

In 2009 they won the Road Safety Association's Leading Lights Safety Award in recognition of their safety procedures such as the alcolock, ongoing driver training, GPS tracking, on-board CCTV use and constant safety checks.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

21

matthews.ie provides a comprehensive look at what the company has to offer

The following year, Matthews were rewarded for their innovations in green energy, becoming the first transport company to win the 2010 Sustainable Energy Association of Ireland (SEAI) Energy Efficiency Award.

The company is now upgrading the alcolock devices on its fleet and will be using the same Canadian technology employed by companies such as Carlsberg, who use similar devices on its fleets as well as in the cars of directors.

The alcohol limit set by the company is below the legal limit of 9 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath for professional drivers.

The company carries 4,000 people a day and they can feel safe in the knowledge that they are being transported around by a safe, dependable driver.

“We practice zero tolerance when it comes to drink driving. There are three

standards - the legal limit, the professional drivers limit and the Matthews limit which is the most demanding of the three.

“It costs a lot of money to install alcolocks in every vehicle, but we feel that it is worth it.”

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar has recently floated the idea of introducing alcohol interlocks as a punitive measure following drink driving convictions, but Paddy believes that the devices are better served as a preventative measure.

“60% of all fatal accidents in the workplace are alcohol-related. I sleep at night because I know that we are focused on safety. Our drivers appreciate this and so do our customers,” said Paddy.

“We need the Government to come on board, and the insurance companies to acknowledge the benefits of installation in lower premiums.”

Every one of the 35 vehicles

Best Wishes To Matthews Coach Hire

operating on a daily basis for the company have the alcohol interlock installed and Paddy revealed that it goes beyond just the company vehicles.

“When my grandson got his first car, I had the alcolock installed in it. I want to be safe in the knowledge that he will not be tempted to drink and drive.”

More recently the company made the headlines once again when Minister Varadkar publicly congratulated them on being awarded a prestigious contract for the world's biggest sporting event.

A total of 15 coaches have made their way from south county Monaghan to the London Olympics.

During the course of the Games, Matthews' coaches and drivers will help to move athletes to and from various venues across the UK. Minster Varadkar stated that Matthews Coach Hire was the only transport company in the Republic of

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23

Dundalk Oil Products Ltd Best Wishes To Matthews Coach Hire

• Suppliers of top quality Winter grade oil- auto & agri diesel • Kerosene & home heating oil • Tanks and hoses • Petrol Wholesale • All Major credit cards accepted • Budget payment plan available

Wishing Con Succes tinued MATTHs To COACH EWS HIRE

Brewery Business Park, Ardee Road, Dundalk E:sales@dundalkoil.com Dundalk Oil

Products Ltd.

Tel: (042) 933 4081 Continued success to Matthews Coach Hire, from

Corduff Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15

www.eirebus.ie Tel: +353-1-8242626 Fax: +353-1-8242627

Continued success to all at Matthews Coach Hire, from

LOUTH COMMERCIALS

BUS, COACH & COMMERCIAL VEHICLE REPAIRS MAINTENANCE • BODYWORK • GLASS Readypenny Dundalk 042-9379168 Airport Business Park, Dublin 01-8447513 Best wishes to Matthews Coach Hire, from

SUPPLIER OF SAND, GRAVEL & CRUSHED STONE Callanberg, Inniskeen, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland.

Tel: 042-9374855/9374856 Fax: 042-9374857

Continued best wishes to Matthews Coach Hire 24

WASTE PERMIT HOLDER FOR THE TRANSPORTATION OF CONTAMINATED WASTE AND SUB-SOIL Channonrock, Louth Village, Dundalk Tel: JOHN @ 087-2542320 Office: 042-9374755

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Matthew Coach Hire offer a luxury service in coaches like this

Paddy and Noel Matthews ensure this coach is full of fuel

Paddy displays the innovative alcolock system

Ireland to have secured a contract at the Games.

Paddy is immensly proud of the fleet that the company have assembled.

“We have 35 vehicles including 30 coaches, 2 midi-coaches, 2 minibus and a corporate limousine. All of our coaches are 2008 or newer,” said Paddy.

“Wi-fi, WCs, DVD players, air conditioning, table seats, refrigerator and tea and coffee facilities are available on board a number of our coaches. In addition all of our coaches are LEZ compliant and Euro 4 or Euro 5 registered.

Paddy is delighted with the direction that Matthews Coach Hire is heading in and he knows that hard work and dedication has got them where they are today.

From humble beginnings running one mini bus to a fleet of 35 exclusive vehicles, Matthews Coach Hire is leading the way in its field of expertise.

“People know us for our successful commuter service, but there's so much more to Matthews,” said Paddy.

CONTACT DETAILS Callenberg, Inniskeen, Co. Monaghan, Ireland Tel: +353 42 9378188 Lo-Call: 1890 25 20 40 Email: info@matthews.ie Fax: +353 42 9378709

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

25

Continued Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd From

FOR ALL YOUR PERSONAL AND COMMERCIAL INSURANCE NEEDS Robertson Low are a leading firm of Irish Insurance brokers established in 1995 and are the only Irish incorporated ‘Lloyd’s Broker’ with their head office in Dublin and regional office in Portlaoise.

Robertson Low pride themselves on their attention to detail, with a genuine commitment to service.

We are on hand to offer advice when you need it through a dedicated point of contact, supported by a team of professionals with specific experience within the business sectors described below.

Private Clients

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• • • • • • • •

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www.robertsonlow.ie DUBLIN & PORTLAOISE Tel: 01 4611500

Robertson Low Insurances Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Best Wishes & Continued Success To KMK Metals Recycling ltd., From

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS TO KMK Metals Environmental Services Waste Licence Applications | Reviews Environmental Monitoring & Reports Movement of Waste | Collection Permits TFS | Waste Carrier Licence | C1 Forms Annual Environmental Reports (AERs) EIA/EIS | Reports for Planning

BEST WISHES TO KMK METALS RECYCLING LTD

from

Cappincur Industrial Estate,Tullamore, Co. Offaly Tel: +353 057-9324722. Fax: +353 057-9324723 Email: info@ravenhill.ie

ravenhill.ie WEEE Logistics Express Service

Fulfilment Refrigeration

ENVIROCO Management Ltd., Bow House, O'Moore Street, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

LoCall 1890 522 000 www.enviroco.ie

26

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

KMK are one of the country’s leading electric waste recyclers

KMK still lead the way The disposal of waste materials can be a complicated procedure that is monitored by legislation that has become a lot more stringent in recent years.

D

isposing of electrical and electronic waste materials is a specialised area that only a number of companies in Ireland cater for and in this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the country's leading electrical waste recyclers.

Tullamore based KMK Metals Recycling Ltd was founded in 1979 and currently employs 50 people. KMK Metals is an EPA licensed end of life metals recovery facility and we speak to commercial manager Kai Meyer about the success of the company.

Having started off recycling electronic scrap and precious metals, the company has expanded over the past 33 years to become a leading player in its field of expertise.

“As a specialist recycling company, we provide a secure and regulated recycling service for metals and all classes of electrical and electronic waste. We have three different business divisions, each of which serves a specific area of the company's recycling service,” said Kai. In 1987, KMK became the first company in Ireland to achieve the Quality Management Systems ISO 9001 certification from the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) as they became the standard bearers for metal recycling.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

“We have always strived to provide the best service possible for our customers, some of who have been with us for many years. We feel that providing such a high quality service, the company can continue to grow and we are always looking at ways to improve the business.”

Over the last ten years, KMK has offered a dedicated WEEE collection and recycling service for all electrical and electronic waste from businesses, nation-wide, under the brand-name, WEEE Recycle.

“The KMK Metals 'Desk-Side' WEEE Recycle service collects electrical and electronic waste and provides certified recycling in an efficient and cost-effective way throughout Ireland fulfilling the guidelines of the WEEE Directive.”

Kai admits that there is a lot of legislation to be adhered too, but he feels that it is there to benefit the industry.

“Every piece of scrap that we handle has to be recorded from the moment it is in our possession until it goes to recycling. There is a lot of legislation, but it helps drive everything and monitors all work carried out.”

Kai also revealed that KMK can now completely recycle all small electrical waste items in Tullamore, having installed Ireland’s only dedicated electrical waste processing plant in 2011. “It has been a very significant investment which has

27

Continued Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH

Keep on trucking with

Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd

Hyland Transport Specialists In 32 County Logistic Management General Haulage | Express Cargo Grain Services | Waste Haulage Birchwood, Rosenallis, Co. Laois T: 00353 (0)5786 28541 F: 00353 (0)5786 28796 Mobile: 00353 (0)86 2572439 Email: info@hylandtransport.com

www.hylandtransport.com

Church Road, Tullamore, Co. Offaly Tel: (057) 9360929 • Fax: (057) 9360926 Mobile: (086) 857 5060 Email: info@fleettyreservices.com www.fleettyreservices.com

Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd Quality Reliable Hazardous Haulage, Waste Management & Vehicle Services

Burlington Business Park, Tullamore, Co. Offaly 057 9329170 | www.tullamore-nissan.com

Main Nissan Dealer

Coolagh, Geashill, Co. Offaly Phone: +353 863892523 Fax: +353 (0)5793 67863

GUINAN GROUP www.guinangroup.com Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd

Keep on trucking with

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

28

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

KMK offer dedicated WEEE collection and recycling service for all electrical and electronic waste

brought about indigenous processing of small electrical and electronic waste items such as printers, computers, kettles, toasters, microwaves et al. In more ways than one is this a ‘green’ development, firstly showing the treatment of waste here in Ireland and in doing so using less energy and a smaller carbon footprint than if the waste flowed to the UK and Europe as before. There is a big effort being put in to source as much material as possible to continue to develop and improve.”

The economic recession that has gripped the nation over the past few years affected every industry and metal recycling didn't escape as Kai explains.

“This is a volume driven industry and the volume of goods

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

being recycled has certainly dropped in the last couple of years. People are holding on to their white goods for longer now as they are not buying as freely as they use to be.”

Despite this, KMK have invested heavily over the last year and they are now looking to develop another area of the business which will see them recycle flat screen monitors and televisions.

“We are currently developing a new line which is nearly completed and this will see us recycle the increasing volume of flat screens, which are replacing the box style CRT’s in our homes and offices.”

KMK Metals has developed and operates the only battery sorting plant in Ireland. By 2016, it will be mandatory for 45%

29

Best Wishes & Continued Success To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd From

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

www.irishtrucker.com

IRISH log on to

Church Road, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

Tel: 057 9352124 Fax: 057 9352135 Email:gfogarty@cqems.ie Web: www.cqems.ie

Don’t be left in the dark

Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd

Best Wishes & Continued Success To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd, From

Western Motors DROGHEDA AND GALWAY For All Your Volkswagen Commercial Needs

AES (Ireland) Ltd., Cappincur, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

Commercial Vehicles

Tel: 041 9898100 or 091 709970

Telephone: 05793 21755 Email: commercialenquiries@aesirl.ie

www.aesirl.ie

Continued Best Wishes To KMK Metals Recycling Ltd From

DMC Technologies DMC Weighbridge Systems Weighbridges and Industrial Weighing Specialists Kilmurry, Ballycommon, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

T: +353 (0)57 932 0695 F: +353 (0)46 954 6813 email: info@dmctech.ie www.dmctech.ie

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 30

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

of all portable batteries placed on the market to be collected for recycling.

This challenging target will require everyone to play their part in bringing their batteries to the thousands of collection points around the country (Every retailer selling batteries will accept old household batteries which will be collected for recycling) As the leading company in battery collections in Ireland, KMK Metals Recycling is working with the two compliance schemes in Ireland; ERP Ireland and WEEE Ireland in developing and implementing a hugely successful nationwide battery collection programme, while raising public awareness about the importance of battery recycling.

“Because of the different chemistries contained in batteries, some of which are dangerous and others hazardous, battery sorting is a vital part of the overall recycling process. The development of the battery sorting process by us means that the shipment regulations which require batteries to be sorted prior to export to dedicated recycling facilities is complied with, ensuring a safe and conforming bridge

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

KMK are headquartered in Offaly

towards final recycling .”

KMK also offer a comprehensive waste management service that sees them provide a fully compliant waste management solution to meet the customers' hazardous and non hazardous waste requirements.

“Our services include a secure and regulated collection and recycling service for metals and all classes of electrical and electronic waste.”

CONTACT DETAILS KMK Metals Recycling Ltd Cappincur Industrial Estate, Daingean Road, Tullamore, Offaly Phone: +353 (0)57 93 41634 Fax: +353 (0)57 93 20056 E-mail: info@kmk.ie Web: www.kmk.ie

31

Around the World The litmus test of a company is in how it adapts and evolves with the times.

With its traditional stomping ground here in Ireland having gone belly-up for the time being at least, First Choice Commercials has successfully reinvented itself by tapping more and more into the global market. Irish Trucker met managing director Mark O’Neill for an update on the Kildarebased company’s impressive activities.

F

irst Choice Commercials is Ireland’s premier supplier of used trucks, plant and machinery, serving the domestic market and also specialising in exporting equipment worldwide (including handling all shipping and documentation).

The company’s well-appointed depot is ideally-located at Newhall, Naas, just off the N7 (Junction 10), beside Ray O’Brien’s Garage. Here, a huge range of equipment can be viewed at all times. Alternatively, the trucks and plants can be perused online, on the company’s dedicated website, www.firstchoicecommercials.ie.

Indeed, the advent of the cyber age has come at just the right time for First Choice Commercials as it has enabled them to tap further into global markets, with the local economy straining under the pressure of a grave recession.

This has been a godsend as the commercial vehicle market

32

here in Ireland has all but vanished.

First Choice Commercials stocks a vast range or trucks (rigids, mixers, tippers, tractor units, trailers etc.), plant and machinery (excavators, back-hoes, telehandlers, dumpers, dozers etc.), tractors / agricultural equipment, vans, cars, 4x4s, waste trucks and sweepers. All of these are carefully sourced through a global network of contacts and offered at the keenest rates to users in Ireland and worldwide.

At the forefront of First Choice Commercials since 1999, Mark O’Neill has always been able to identify / predict trends in the commercial vehicle market and react accordingly. He built his reputation on buying and selling quality second-hand trucks, plant and machinery nationwide, providing a stellar service and establishing his company as undoubted leaders in their field.

Since First Choice Commercials was last featured in the IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A selection of quality trucks available from First Choice Commercials

pages of this magazine three or four years ago, a lot has changed. Not for the first time, they’ve had to assess the lie of the land, take stock of things and plot the path forward. Not for the first time, they have come up with a winning formula!

Commenting on how the landscape has altered for First Choice Commercials over the past few years,company founder Mark notes: “We had just moved into a new fouracre site; then the market started to change beyond recognition. The greatest change has been the total collapse in the level of sales within Ireland, which has led to the situation where the majority of our customers are now based abroad. About 80% of what we sell is now exported.

“This is not just due to the collapse of the domestic market but also the emergence of developing markets in Africa for tippers, mixers, block trucks etc. - which is one of our biggest markets now. There is still a small IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

demand within Ireland, but this has been hammered by the collapse in construction and also the drop-off in retail, with the small operator also being forced out of business. The result is that there are very few people left to supply and , to be honest, most people are looking to offload equipment that they don’t need anymore.

“There are still trucks moving but we have had to diversify and look further afield. This has meant completely diversifying the business to cater for new markets. Australia, for example, is now a big market. We offer complete door-to-door shipping to Australia – and all other countries – and have built very good relations with shippers. At this stage, we are doing business in most corners of the world.”

The newfound success of First Choice Commercials has been made possible not just by the genesis of the internet and email but also by the solid reputation the company has forged and its proven knack for sourcing quality equipment at affordable prices. “One of the keys is to publish very good pictures of the stock online. Often, we are selling the machinery on the strength of the picture alone. A lot of people are buying equipment from us without even seeing it physically,” Mark continues.

“There is a great deal of trust involved in this and we would never betray that trust. We are as good as our word and we only ever put up pictures of stock that we actually own and have in our yard. With the advent of the digital camera and email, anybody can take a picture and advertise stock that they don’t own – often our stock – and secure deposits. But anything that’s advertised on the First Choice Commercials website is in our yard. Once we upload it, the asset is in our yard and available for inspection.

“For example, I recently sold two eight-wheel tippers for EUR30,000 each to Fiji, having never met the company. They carried out their checks and they were prepared to do business. Shipping to Fiji is almost EUR15,000 per truck but they are still getting a good deal and these markets are opening more and more.

“Things have come a long way with the internet. I can remember days when I used to take Polaroid pictures and DHL them to the Far East. But the move from print to digital has made things a lot easier for everybody. Without the internet in place, you would literally have to get on board a plane to build relations.

“We’ve had to move with the times. We had diversified before from trucks to machinery but the vast majority of yellow

Some of the plant and machinery on sale at First Choice Commercials

33

equipment has now left the country and we are importing them now to satisfy limited demand in the agricultural sector. We’re also looking at markets like Spain, where we have purchased equipment and then forwarded it on to the continent without even bringing it into Ireland.

“We set up the website four years ago and it’s targeting the right markets. We will target Google in certain countries and you do everything you can to bring attention to yourself but the market moves very quickly and you have to be on top of your game at all times.

“Also, a number of our former customers here in Ireland have emigrated and set up new ventures in Australia or Africa but they continue to source their equipment from us because we have regularly met their requirements in the past.

“Of course, exporting isn’t something new to First Choice Commercials. We have always exported but it has cranked up each year since the recession. Looking to the future, our goal is to continue to develop our export markets in the short term. At the same time, we will stick around and continue to service the Irish market and be ready to roll when it bounces back.”

Mark O’Neill sources and supplies only the vest best plant and machinery

CONTACT DETAILS

Great value is available on all these models

First Choice Commercials Newhall, Naas, County Kildare, Ireland.

Tel: 045 98 85 33 Fax: 045 98 85 32 E-Mail: info@firstchoicecommercials.ie www.firstchoicecommercials.ie

These Hinos are up for grabs at a very keen price

34

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To First Choice Commercials Scania Dealer, Delaney Commercials offer the full range of services required at a busy dealership, whether it is for new Scania Trucks or used Scania Trucks, Scania Services & Repairs or Scania Parts.

Maudlins Industrial Estate, Naas, County Kildare.

Phone: (045) 879932 Fax: (045) 876541 Email: sales@delaneys.ie

www.delaneys.ie

J.&R. Tyres Ltd. Specialists In Mobile Break Downs ALL MAKES & TYPES OF TYRES SUPPLIED Contact Johnny

Mobile: (086) 8593187 Donaghers Lane, Prosperous, Co. Kildare Tel/Fax: 045 840055 Continued Best Wishes To First Choice Commercials

Proud to be associated with First Choice Commercials

DECLAN TREANOR COMMERCIALS LTD. Drumfurrer, Carrickroe, Co. Monaghan

HINO DEALER SERVICE/REPAIRS TO ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES STETTER AND CIFA MIXERS 24 HOUR BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICE LASER LINE ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES DISMANTLE WIDE RANGE OF 6 & 8 WHEEL HINO TRUCKS BUYERS OF S/H TRUCKS FOR EXPORT FILLING STATION AND 24 HOURS ODT

T: 047-87468 F: 047-86034 Mobile: 087-2593132 E: declantreanor@eircom.net Best Wishes too First Chooicce Commercciaals

Main Dealers for HINO & IVECO Commercial Vehicles and Parts FIAT Professional Commercials ISUZU Trucks & Jeeps, ZETOR Farm Tractors

Truck, Trailer & Van Repairs Van Rental • Supplier of Hydraulic Hoses

SIB Smyths Insurance Brokers

Ltd.

COMMERCIAL • LIABILITY • MOTOR • HOUSEHOLD • TRAVEL INSURANCE •

FOR ALL YOUR TRUCKING NEWS

The Village Square, Tallaght, Dublin 24 T:01-4621244/5 F 01-4621017 E:info@sib.ie 1a Old Cornmarket, Navan, Co. Meath E:infonavan@sib.ie

www.irishtrucker.com

Best Wishes To First Choice Commercials

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Smyths Insurance Brokers Ltd. is regulated by The Central Bank Of Ireland

35

The company base at North City Business Park, Finglas

The tanker maintenance experts Located just off Junction 5 on the M50, Dublin Tanker Repairs Services is the one-stop shop for all road tanker repairs and servicing. Irish Trucker took the opportunity of dropping into the company base at North City Business Park, Finglas for a chat with Quality Manager Brian Osborne.

T

he team at Dublin Tanker Repairs Services Ltd. are experts in the maintenance, repair and servicing of road tankers, offering a bumper-to-bumper service including tank testing, repairs and certification, meter repairs calibration and verification, ADR preparation including documentation, vehicle servicing, DOE preparation, safe loading pass preparation and issuing of safe loading certificates.

The only Authorised Verifier of the NSAI Legal Metrology Service (LMS) based in Leinster, the DTRS Quality Management System is certified by the National Standards Authority of Ireland as meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2008 thus ensuring the highest level of customer service and attention.

They also stock a comprehensive range of parts from all the leading manufacturers including Alpeco, Emco Wheaton, Gardner Denver, Alfons Haar, Collins Youldon and many

36

others. Temperature compensation probes and the associated software can be fitted to existing meters to help reduce or eliminate stock losses.

With over 30 years’ experience in the repair and maintenance of road tankers, founder / MD Henry Cassidy and his team of mechanics and engineers have built a reputation for being the foremost experts in the Irish market.

Since inception, the business has been focused on providing customers with a best-in-industry level of care and attention.

They offer a service that is thorough and professional, ensuring that all repairs are carried out to the highest standards by a highly-trained team of specialists.

Their impressive customer portfolio includes most of Ireland’s main oil distributors, from multi-truck companies to single truck operators.

“The company was set up and is owned by MD Henry Cassidy and his co-Director Susan Somers,” Quality IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Keeping the show on the road

Manager Brian Osborne confirms. “Henry has worked in this business for over 30 years and established the company in its present state in 2006, having operated extensively in commercial vehicle repairs prior to that. He found himself specialising more and more in oil tanker repairs so setting up Dublin Tanker Repairs Services was a natural development.

“Very quickly, Henry became known for his expertise far and wide. As the equipment became more and more sophisticated, with pneumatics and electronics more prominent, he was sought out for his expertise and knowledge. As he had an electronics background as well as vast mechanical expertise, he was the go-to man for oil tanker operators.”

Today, 90% of Henry’s work is in the oil tanker market, with a small but steady amount of commercial vehicle repairs also catered for. In April 2011, the company’s hand was strengthened further by their relocation to a prime location in North City Business Park, where they have taken two brand-new units just a minute from the M50.

Dublin Tanker Repairs Services is approved by the Irish Petroleum Industry Association for pressure testing of tanks as laid down by ADR regulations. They are approved for both leakproof testing and thorough examinations and all IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

tests are certified and the relevant test plate is applied to the tested vehicle.

In a nutshell, DTRS calibrate, repair and verifies all truckmounted oil meters, both mechanical and electronic, working closely with leading manufacturers to ensure they have the requisite skills to maintain their equipment to the highest standards. All technicians are highly skilled in all aspects of product pumping systems including electronics, hydraulics and pneumatics.

As well as servicing all makes and types of commercial vehicles, they also carry a comprehensive range of vehicle

Dublin Tanker Repairs Services is the only authorised verifier of the NSAI Legal Metrology Service in Leinster

37

Best Wishes to Dublin Tanker Repairs Services Ltd VEHICLE TESTING NETWORK

The Insurance Shop are independent insurance brokers with over 30 years experience providing tailored insurance services to meet our customers needs.

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

Shop Insurance Specialists We identify the needs of our customers and have the expertise to provide individual specialised covers in all areas of insurance including:

• • • •

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• Technology • Home • Life Pensions

84 North Strand Rd, Fairview, Dublin 3 Tel: 01- 8366663.

Fax 01 - 8555010 Email info@tis.ie www.tis.ie CONTINUED BEST WISHES TO DUBLIN TANKER REPAIRS SERVICES LTD.

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

QUALITY PARTS, QUALITY SERVICE & QUALITY PRICES

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Best Wishes To Dublin Tanker Repairs Services Ltd From

Bowden Walsh & Co CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Beamore Business Centre, Beamore Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth.

79 NORTH STRAND ROAD, NORTH STRAND, DUBLIN 3 TEL: 01-8364544 FAX: 01-8559905 EMAIL: info@bftrailers.com Website: www.bandftrailerspares.ie Best Wishes To Dublin Tanker Repairs Services Ltd

T: 041 9830200

F: 041 9831138 E: richard.bowden@bwc.ie

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact Delighted to be associated with Dublin Tanker Repairs Services Ltd

38

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

spares from Scania, Volvo, Mercedes, ERF and most other leading truck manufacturers.

Dublin Tanker Repairs Services is an Authorised Verifier for the NSAI Legal Metrology Service for truck-mounted oil meters currently in trade use. Under the Metrology Act (1996), all such meters should be verified and operators of vehicles without verified meters are subject to prosecution under the Act. Should a meter require repairs, technicians can carry these out while minimising any delays caused by failed verifications. A comprehensive range of parts and spares ensures the client can return to service without any undue hold-up.

Appointments are offered at short notice to help operators comply fully with regulations, with an onsite service available by special request.

“We can provide all services needed to ensure that an oil tanker remains on the road – servicing, testing, verifying and calibrating, parts and repairs,” Brian continues. “We are the only Company based in Leinster who is fully-approved to service, calibrate and verify all truck-mounted oil delivery meters, which we can also repair. While the vast majority of our work is within

massive technical support and we’re very strong on valueadded services such as providing free advice, collection/delivery service and much much more.

“I joined the company last year coming from an operations director background in an oil distribution company. I was brought in to work on the Quality Management System with a keen understanding of what customer requirements are - seeing as I used to be one myself! We have a close understanding of the requirements of oil distributors and we tailor our services to meet their exact needs.”

Dublin Tanker Repairs Ltd are proven experts in their field

the province, we have a nationwide spread of customers.

“We have evolved more and more into this niche market. We have the equipment and the expertise and we have also forged very close working relationships with the equipment manufacturers. We work hand in hand with the main suppliers of oil tanker pumping equipment in Europe – Alfons Haar, Alpeco, Emco Wheaton and Gardner Denver – and carry a wide range of their parts and spares.”

Currently providing gainful employment to a crew of ten, Dublin Tanker Repairs Services is looking to the future with confidence. Brian Osborne concludes: “Obviously the number of oil tankers in the country is reducing due to both the recession and climate change. So we have to give absolute value-for-money as well as

CONTACT DETAILS Dublin Tanker Repairs Services Ltd. D4 & D5, North City Business Park, North Road, Dublin 11, County Dublin Ireland.

Telephone: 01 8790300 Fax: 01 8790301 Email: sales@dtrs.ie www.tankerrepairs.ie

A hive of activity in the workshop

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

39

The prestine Doyle Concrete fleet

Doyle Concrete: Laying the Foundation Since the end of the Celtic Tiger, many quarry firms and concrete producers have suffered the brunt of the current economic recession as the building trade has literally came to a halt.

H

owever, one company in the South East has continued to progress, despite the current setbacks endured and for this month's edition of Irish Trucker we profile this popular business.

Doyle Concrete was established in 1972 by David Doyle and over the years through hard work, determination and a willingness to move with the times, David built the company into what it is today.

Having decided to take a step back from the day to day

40

running of the business, David has handed the reins to his son Denis and he speaks to us about the success of the company.

Doyle Concrete specialise in manufacturing and supplying Readymix Concrete for Ireland commercial and large-scale customer.

“We are Ready Mix Concrete suppliers to the smaller, domestic customer also,” revealed Denis. “Our extensive fleet of machinery ensures that we can respond and deliver IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The company is 40 years in existence Specialist concrete pumping

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

the required volume of Readymix regardless of the quantity required.

For the past 40 years the company has been delivering a quality service for both commercial and residential customers. With such a vast amount of experience for all their customers' construction needs, Doyle's have developed a reputation for delivering an efficient and reliable service and this is what they have maintained their large customer base.

Denis states that not being involved directly with the building trade or housing boom as it was more commonly known has played a massive part in the company's survival during these testing times.

“We never really got too big in with the builders as we focused more on the agricultural side of things, which has always being the main core of our business. And fortunately for us, this is an area that is still bringing in the work.

“In saying that we have like everyone else being affected by the recession and we have been forced to reduce our work force from 60 to 30.”

Doyle's produce many concrete products from their plant in Hugginstown, Co Kilkenny, which is based half way between Kilkenny and Waterford cities, giving them a prime location to work from.

Not only do Doyle's supply Readymix but they also supply the Easyflow mix as well. “We are one of the leading suppliers of Easyflow Concrete Mix in Ireland. Our versatile Concrete Mix is a crucial part of almost all kinds of construction work. Our Concrete Ready Mix ration can be altered to suit the customers' individual requirements.

Precast concrete products are also manufactured at the plant in Hugginstown and these include Cillis, Lintels, Kerbs, Fencing etc. Doyle Concrete prides itself on being one of the main Precast Concrete Products suppliers in Ireland. Their continuous investment in state-of-the-art technology

41

Continued Best Wishes To Doyle Concrete, From

Continued Best Wishes To Doyle Concrete

PB Haulage Ltd FIXLINE LIMITED Suppliers of Quality Workshop Consumables To Transport, Automotive & Engineering Trades Nationwide Quartertown Ind Est., Mallow, Co. Cork.

Tel: 022 50172 Fax: 022 50173 Email: johnl@fixline.ie

Proud to be associated with Doyle Concrete

Knockroe, Castledermot, Co. Kildare Tel: 059 9144488 Fax: 059 9144161 Email: pbhaulage@eircom.net

Continued Best Wishes To Doyle Concrete From

PHONE: 051 877700 Marine Point, Belview, Waterford www.arachas.ie E: insure@arachas.ie Arachas Corporate Brokers Limited trading as Arachas is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Main Dealers for HINO & IVECO Commercial Vehicles and Parts FIAT Professional Commercials ISUZU Trucks & Jeeps, ZETOR Farm Tractors

FOR THE BEST DEAL ON WHEELS

Truck, Trailer & Van Repairs Van Rental • Supplier of Hydraulic Hoses

Upper Patrick St., Kilkenny Email: sales@tctyres.com www.tctyres.com

Continued Success To All At Doyle Concrete, from

Best Wishes & Continued Success To DOYLE CONCRETE Continued Success To Doyle Concrete From

NOEL O’BRIEN CEMENT Belview Port Waterford T +353 51 832360 F +353 51 832393 E mail@nobc.ie

Now producing GGBS & Cement at our new manufacturing facility

www.irishtrucker.com 42

PRODUCTS & SERVICES FOR THE AGRICULTURAL & INDUSTRIAL SECTOR Cillin Hill,Dublin Road, Kilkenny.

T: 0567765222 F: 0567763420 E: info@farmandindustrialsupplies.ie

www.farmandindustrialsupplies.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Doyle Concrete offer a specialist service

The company adhere to the highest standards

ensures a top quality product.

“We would also offer a complete Concrete Pumping Service for the commercial and residential markets.

Our employees and equipment have been used on major construction sites throughout the Country.

Concrete Conveyor Hire “We offer a Concrete Conveyor Hire service for concrete placement. This is an ideal solution for customers when handling Readymix in difficult areas.

Contact Doyle Concrete to choose the best system for your construction site.

All our Conveyor Hire machines confirm to the latest health and safety standards,” added Denis.

As stated the core of the business is centred around the agricultural sector and the produce farm buildings for animal husbandry and the processing of food crops. The construction of farm IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

buildings requires several basic materials, one of them being Concrete or Concrete Mix, for foundations, milking parlours, cattle slats, silage pits, farm roadways etc.

Once the Concrete is mixed with water it must be poured within two hours, in order to comply with the European Safety standards directive EN 206, this is the EU standard that must be adhered to for quality and safety purposes and Denis admits that all legislation is adhered too meticulously.

“We met the highest standards when it comes to manufacturing our products, but unfortunately in this industry this is not the case for all businesses as there is no certificate for the foundations in houses. It is an area that I feel strongly about and believe that it should be monitored accordingly, but that is not

the case at the moment.”

Doyle Concrete carry out their own in-house quality standards for EN 206, and in addition are audited once a year to verify compliance in this important area.

The business has expanded in recent times as sandpit in Castledermot has been added to the portfolio as well as the purchase of South East Concrete in Waterford, which saw nine bottle trucks added to the fleet.

“Last November, we took over South East Concrete in Waterford city, and as part of that we have also taken on the builder's yard at Pierce Hire, so we are happy enough with the direction that the company is heading in.”

Doyle Concrete is very much a family run business and Denis' sister Caroline and brother John are very much involved in the day to day running of the company.

For any company to celebrate 40 years in business is a remarkable achievement, but it is an even more amazing feat when they are in the concrete trade.

CONTACT DETAILS Doyle Concrete Hugginstown Co Kilkenny Tel: 056 7768650 Fax: 056 776895 E-mail: info@doyleconcrete.ie

43

Butler’s Buses for all your travel requirements

Butler’s Buses Ltd offers a wide range of services tailored to suit your travel requirements. Managing director Ian Butler explains more about the Co. Cork-based family-run business.

B

utler’s Buses Ltd has come a long way since Sean Butler set up the company in Cobh, Co. Cork 45 years ago.

Now a sprightly 81-year-old who remains one of Butler’s most reliable drivers, Sean handed over the reins in 1993 to his son Ian who has continued to grow the business by adding to its fleet and expanding its range of services. Ian’s brothers Kevin and Barry are also involved as director and driver respectively.

Bulter’s services cater for airport transfers to guided tours and golf holidays. The company prides itself on providing a flexible service customised to suit its customers’ needs.

Safety, reliability, comfort, value-for-money and a service that is second to none is always assured with Butler’s.

“We have never been as busy as this year,” Ian Butler is happy to report.

“It’s a good complaint to have in the middle of a recession.

44

There is a great demand for all of our services but in particular for guided tours. This year we have seen a big jump in demand for tours that include England, Scotland and Wales. Our tours in Ireland and the UK account for about 70 per cent of our overall business at this time of the year.

“We’ve introduced a new company logo which has been utilised on all our vehicles, website and stationary. We have also introduced a new uniform for all our drivers complete with our new company logo. This has gone a long way to further improve our company profile. We have added 6 vehicles to our fleet in the past 8 months. In recent months we have taken delivery of a new 55 seater Volvo touring coach and an executive Mercedes Sprinter tour coach. All in all, 2012 has been an exciting year for our company and 2013 already looks very promising,” he adds.

Licensed by the Department of Transport for National and International carriage of passengers by coach and bus for IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Butler’s Buses continue to go from strength to strength

Butler’s recently took delivery of a new Mercedes Sprinter tour coach

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

hire or reward, Butler’s boasts a fleet of 14 coaches, including three 53/55-seaters, five 28/30-seaters, four 16-seaters and two six-seater Mercedes Vianos. The larger executive coaches are all Volvo, while the rest of the fleet are all Mercedes.

“All of our vehicles are modern and maintained to the highest standards. 10 of our coaches are touring specification with leather recliners, fully air-conditioned, tables, DVD, WC and large luggage bays. The mix of vehicles in our fleet ensures you get the right size and comfort level that best suits your budget and requirements.”

All of Butler’s vehicles not only comply, but exceed the statutory safety and emissions regulations. Each vehicle is thoroughly checked on a daily basis throughout for any possible defects, which are immediately rectified. The duty of all of the company’s drivers is to put the safety of passengers and other road users/pedestrians first at all times.

It goes without saying that Butler’s drivers are the best in the business. Between full-time, part-time, relief and seasonal, the company employs 25 drivers who are fully-trained and highly experienced. Most of the drivers also double as tour guides.

“Without competent, co-operative and courteous drivers, all other efforts in our business are in vain. They have to have a great relationship with our passengers. They’ve all taken part in six-to-eight week driver touring programmes which we run ourselves,” Ian says.

Butler’s endeavour to provide a top-class service at all times to passengers. The company’s success has been built on repeat business and referrals. Ian and his staff are constantly looking at ways to deliver a better and more diverse service.

Their latest innovation is to introduce Bus Points for their customers as well as allowing their customers’ access to their account online. No other private bus operator in Ireland offers this kind of service.

“One of the reasons for our success can be attributed to the fact that we embraced the internet at a very early stage.

We’ve had a strong online presence since 1998 and that has enabled us to grow and get the message out to our overseas customers, while keeping our costs down at the same time. Eighty per cent of those who avail of our private tours in Ireland are American. We also attract customers from Canada, Europe and all over the world.

“We’ve have always placed a strong emphasis on technology over the years.

Our complete office can be run from any remote location with our booking/management system being online as well as credit card processing, fax, email, etc all accessible from anywhere you have an internet connection. All our vehicles are linked in to our FleetMatics fleet and vehicle tracking system.”

Golf weekends and extended tours are Butler’s speciality. They can meet customers at the airport and transfer them to their hotel and onwards to any golf course in Ireland. Butler’s can help with organising tee times, accommodation, dining out and entertainment.

A typical tour in Ireland would be golfing, fishing, sightseeing and religious excursions. And Butler’s also cater for transport to and from concerts, sports

45

Continued Best Wishes To Butler’s Buses Ltd

We have five fully equipped car servicing bays, where we can offer you a very wide range of car repairs and diagnostic tasks.

SERVICES DIAGNOSTICS NCT PRE TEST 24 HOUR RECOVERY SERVICE ACCESSORY SHOP

Cobh Motormart Ltd. Glenanaar Place, Cobh, Co Cork T: (021) 4813424 F: (021) 4813502 After Hours: 086 387 1700 E: info@cobhmotormart.com www.cobhmotormart.com

COACH AND MINI-COACH TOURS Farrahy rd., Kildorrery, Co. Cork.

T: (022)25185 | F: (022)25731 E: gosull@indigo.ie www.osullivanscoaches.com Continued Best Wishes To Butler’s Buses Ltd

Keating's Londis Plus Texaco Service Station Newtown, Cobh Tel: 021 4908444

Congratulations To Butler’s Buses On 45 Years In Business & Wishing You Continued Prosperity In The Future from All at Keating's Londis Best Wishes To Butler’s Buses Ltd, From

Continued best wishes to Butler’s Buses Ltd

Wishing Cosntinued Success To Butler’s Buses Ltd

SPRAY PAINTING CARS & COMMERCIALS MIDLETON

021 4634378 086 8279769

14 Lough Sheever Corporate Business Park, Mullingar Westmeath

T: 044 934 1750 F: 044 934 1754 M: 086 605 7766 www.lirbus.ie

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 46

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Butler’s cater for airport transfers to guided tours and golf holidays Butler’s website allows passengers on cruise ships visiting Cork to book individual seats securely online

events and social outings.

Butler’s ecoach.ie website has also been a great success. This allows passengers on cruise ships visiting Cobh to book individual seats securely online for our scheduled tour to Blarney and Kinsale.

CONTACT DETAILS Butler’s Buses Ltd, Brookvale, Cobh, Co. Cork.

Telephone: +353 (0)21 4811660 Fax: +353 (0)21 2380242 Email: ian@butlers-buses.com Website: www.butlers-buses.com Butler’s has been in existence for 45 years

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Liner tour bookings: www.ecoach.ie

47

Michael O’Brien, Bowen Construction, contractors; John McKeown, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Seamus Ryan, Deputy Mayor Davy Daniels, Frank Roche, Waterford City Council, Cllr Cha O’Neill, Paul Johnston, Mick Allen, Bowen

Keeping Waterford ‘on the road’ Waterford County and City Councils have vital roles to play in maintaining and improving the roads network in the south east. As part of its brief to preserve the local environment, the County Council also oversees the implementation of all directives regarding the disposal of End of Life vehicles (ELVs).

W

aterford County Council employs over 500 staff, covering managerial, administrative, professional and technical grades. County Manager Denis McCarthy has overall responsibility for all staff in the county, including Dungarvan, Lismore and Tramore Town Councils.

Michael Quinn, Director of Services Transport & Infrastructure, provides the administrative and technical functions for roads and water services while Brian White, Director of Services Environment & Planning, provides the

48

Waterford waste water treatment plant

administrative and technical functions for Planning, Environmental Protection, Waste Management, Libraries, Arts, Culture and Heritage Services.

Waterford County Council is the local authority responsible for administration of the county.

Within the county there are three Town Councils – Lismore, Tramore and Dungarvan. Each Town Council within the county area comes under the jurisdiction of the County Manager. The Council aims: “To protect and enhance the quality of life of the citizens of County Waterford and to establish County Waterford as a IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

world class business location” The following roads projects, carried out by Waterford County Council during the period 2000 – 2007, were provided under the National Development Plan and co-funded by EU Structural Funds: R682 – N25 Tramore; R680 Kilmeaden – Carrick on Suir; R634 Tallow Bridge; Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan; R676 Leamybrien – Carrick on Suir; R682 Bawnfune – Tramore Stage 1; R682 Bawnfune – Tramore Stage 2; R676 Mahon Bridge; R675 St. Augustine’s College – Clonea; Duckspool Road; Ballinagoul – Helvick; R671 Ballymacarbry; R675 Clonea – Durrow Cross; R671 Licky Bridge; L3028 Stradbally Road Subsidance; R674 Cliff Stabilisation, Helvick; Stabilisation,

Duck Road, Dunmore; R684 Waterford City to Dunmore East; R708 Airport Road; L3168 Tournore, Dungarvan; Waterford Road Roundabout; R682 Tramore – Slieveroe; Access Road to Passage East Ferry Terminal; R675 Clonea Towards Bonmahon; Tramore Ring Road Phase 3-5; Cloneety, Dungarvan; L3165 - Monang Road, Dungarvan; Tallow Link Road; L3011 Clonea Access Road; R675 - Cliff Stabilisation Kilmurrin.

Meanwhile, the transport department of Waterford City Council provides the physical infrastructure necessary for Waterford city to grow and develop to its maximum capacity as the gateway city of the south east region. This department has responsibility for the roads network, public lighting, traffic management and the road safety programme.

The roads section provides and maintains public roads, footpaths and public lighting; implements traffic management; and promotes road safety. Its aim is to secure safety and efficiency in the transportation of people and goods by road, which will in turn facilitate increased economic development and maximise the safety

of all users of the roads network – motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Michael Walsh is the manager of Waterford City Council, with Fergus Galvin as Director of Transport & Infrastructure and Collette Byrne Director of Environment & Planning.

Recent projects include the N52 Waterford city bypass scheme, Outer Ring Road and Carrickphierish Road.

The former is one of the most significant pieces of road infrastructure ever to be built in County Waterford. A co-operative effort between Waterford City Council, Waterford County Council, Kilkenny County Council and the National Roads Authority, the N25 Waterford bypass scheme stretches from west of Kilmeaden to the east of Slieverue.

It forms part of the North/South Strategic Corridor which runs from Belfast via Dublin and Rosslare to Cork, comprising 23km of dual carriageway, 16km of single carriageway, two grade separated junctions, 60 structures, a toll plaza and the 465m cable stayed River Suir Bridge. Construction began in April 2006 and the route opened to traffic in October 2009.

End of life vehicles

Continued Best Wishes To Waterford County Council From

KEREEN QUARRIES LIMITED ALL GRADES OF CRUSHED STONE SUPPLIED Mitchell Street, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford T: Office 058 41360 T: Quarry 024 96453 M: 086 2501665 F: 058 45220

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

49

END OF LIFE VEHICLES Anyone who wants to dispose of an End of Life vehicle (ELV) needs to know about new End of Life Vehicle regulations which came into effect for all end-of-life cars from January 1st, 2007. These regulations introduce an EU directive aimed at ensuring that old cars are properly de-polluted and dismantled in a manner that doesn’t pose a risk to the environment or to human health.

The regulations place obligations on the producers (that is to say vehicle manufacturers/importers), dismantlers / vehicle scrap facilities and the car owner. Facilities dealing with end-of-life vehicles must meet stringent new environmental standards for the collection, storage and treatment of end-of-life vehicles. These facilities are

known as authorised treatment facilities (ATFs) and they must hold a valid Waste Facility Permit.

Members of the public or motor industry should only bring their old car to an authorised treatment facility (ATF) which will issue a Certificate of Destruction, which confirms that the vehicle is being de-polluted and dismantled in an environmentally-safe manner. The facility will then notify the Vehicle Registration Unit of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in Shannon, County Clare and the destruction of the vehicle will be noted in the records of the National Vehicle File.

All intact end-of-life vehicles must be accepted from the owner of the vehicle free of charge, who should only deal with a properly permitted, authorised

Jim Moroney CAR DISMANTLERS

Car Parts Suppliers ALL TYPES OF CARS WANTED Ballycullane, Dungarvan, Waterford

M: 087 0529172 • 087 2709734 Waste Permit No WFP-WD-11-0001-01

BEST WISHES TO WATERFORD COUNTY COUNCIL

50

treatment facility when getting rid of his / her old vehicles as these are the only ones that can issue Certificates of Destruction.

Currently the Authorised Treatment Facilities for County Waterford and their locations are: Richard Nugent, Ballymartin, Glencairn, Lismore, County Waterford; Patrick Allen, Kilgainy, Clomel, County Waterford; Maurice Lenihan, Carrigeen, Newtown, Kilmacthomas, County Waterford; and Jim Moroney, Ballycullane Beg, Dungarvan, County Waterford.

All car sales importers whose vehicles are likely to become an End of Life Vehicle in Waterford County Council’s local authority areas should register with Waterford County Council’s environmental section.

Continued Success To Waterford County Council, From

WM WHELAN & SONS PLANT HIRE

Plant & Machinery Hire Lackenfune, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford

Tel: 058 43275 or 087 2676159 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Killure Road, St. John's Park, Waterford.

T: 0035351 872 219 M: 0035386 2509 238 F: 0035351 853 184 E: info@recoveryireland.com www.recoveryireland.com

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Waterford County Council

VEHICLE RECOVERY • INTERNATIONAL SERVICE WE PROVIDE A 24 HOUR VEHICLE RECOVERY SERVICE VTN TEST CENTRE FOR HEAVY AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES AS WELL AS A FULL SERVICE AND REPAIR WORKSHOP FOR ALL MAKES OF CARS AND TRUCKS.

Best Wishes To Waterford County Council From

Friends of the Earth Skip Hire & Fuel Ltd First Choice For Skip Hire In Waterford

KEEPING THE SOUTH EAST CLEAN Six Cross Roads Bus Pk Waterford, Co. Waterford

Tel: 051 374608

Best Wishes To Waterford County Council, From

Clonmel Car Dismantlers

End Off The Road Recycle Don’t Scrap p

Kilganey, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary Waste Permit No: WFP - WD - 10 - 0009 -01

T: (052) 6123147 M: 087 6255433 M: 086 8304307

Best Wishes To Waterford County Council From

DICK NUGENT

Car Dismantlers

• JCBs • EXCAVATORS • TRACTORS TRAILERS • MINI-DIGGERS • DUMPERS • ROLLERS • LAND DRAINAGE

Ballymartin, Glencairn, Lismore, Co. Waterford

Tel: 058 56295 Mobile: 087 6257966 Waste Permit - WFP-WD-10-0004-01

Continued Best Wishes To Waterford County Council From

TOM WALSH

PLANT HIRE & CIVIL ENGINEERING

Ballyduff Upper, Co. Waterford. Tel: 087-9542719 Continued success to Waterford County Council

Best Wishes To Waterford County Council From

B

UTLER’S GARAGE

Skeard, Kilmacow, Co. Kilkenny

Clogga, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny

LIGHT & HEAVY COMMERCIAL & PLANT REPAIRS & SERVICING

Tel: 051 895218 Mobile: 087 2443253

Email: don.butler@eircom.net

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Don Butler - 087 231 9600

51

Junction 14 Mayfield celebrates first birthday Ireland’s newest motorway service area, Junction 14 Mayfield, celebrated one year in business on June 17 last. General Manager Gavin Moran explains more.

R

elax, refuel and recharge at Junction 14 Mayfield, which is the only motorway service station on the M7.

Located at the Monasterevin junction on the country’s busiest motorway, which links Dublin to Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Limerick and Clare as well as a large part of the midlands, Junction 14 Mayfield is an independently-owned motorway service area that has just completed its first year in business. And what a first 12 months it has been for the Co. Kildare-based operation which was developed by local businessmen Donal and Liam Fitzpatrick at a cost of €7

52

million.

“It’s been absolutely hectic, but we’re not complaining,” Junction 14 Mayfield General Manager Gavin Moran says.

“It’s great to be involved with something like this. It’s the country’s first privately-run service area and is unique in the sense that people are coming from Monasterevin and the surrounding areas to have their dinners, and companies are holding their meetings here. It’s much more than just a service area.”

Gavin continues: “We decided to mark out first year in business by having our official opening on June 17 2012 – IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Junction 14 Mayfield has just completed a very successful first year in business

pumps, allowing you to pay at the pump via laser or credit card, and will take most Irish and European fuel cards. There are also four separate pumps for HGVs and Ad Blue refill points. The forecourt operates 24/7 for your convenience.

Other facilities on the forecourt include charging points for electric cars by ESB eCars, two car washers, an ATM machine, 170 car parking spaces, 25 dedicated truck parking spaces and five dedicated bus parking spaces. Inside, there’s plenty of options for food with Spar Express, Supermacs and Insomnia Coffee Company all having full size food areas.

There is ample seating in the restaurant, but if you fancy something different there’s a covered outdoor seated/picnic area with a full play zone for the children.

Junction 14 Mayfield also boasts 24-hour pristine toilet Insomnia Coffee company has a full size food area

There is ample seating as well as plenty of options for food at Junction 14 Mayfield

exactly a year after we first opened our doors. We had loads of giveaways and special events during our week-long celebrations which went down a treat with children especially.”

Junction 14 Mayfield is the only motorway service area in the country that can be accessed from both sides of the motorway, both north and southbound as it’s situated at a full junction. It benefits from advance information signs on the M7 motorway in both directions and provides the most up-to-date motorway service point facilities for the discerning Irish motorist and trucker.

The objective of Junction 14 Mayfield is to give motorists the chance to relax, recharge and refuel without adding extra travelling time onto their journey. It strives to provide top-class facilities to its customers while making their stop as convenient as possible.

The service area boasts 12 state-of-the-art Texaco unleaded petrol and diesel pumps, four of which are U Pay IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

An Insomnia coffee maker is a welcome sight for weary drivers

53

Junction 14 Mayfield was developed at a cost of Eu7 million

facilities which any five-star hotel would be proud of. In addition, shower facilities are available to the longdistance traveller. Free Wi-Fi is also available.

The service area has been such a success that it has seen its staff more than double from 50 to 110 in the space of a year. “It’s great to be part of a company that’s recruiting in these difficult economic times,” enthuses Gavin, whose background is in retail.

Junction 14 Mayfield prides itself on its friendly and approachable staff, who are always willing to help with any requests you may have, and the fact that all of its franchises are Irishowned. “That was something Donal and Liam wanted – that everything be Irish,” Gavin adds.

The Fitzpatrick brothers are pillars of the business community in Monasterevin, with the family having traded successfully in the Co. Kildare town in the motor, agricultural machinery, hardware and forecourt businesses since 1954. Donal – who runs a Spar in Monasterevin – and Liam identified Junction 14 as the perfect destination to give M7 motorists a break on their journey between Dublin, Cork and the South West, and

spent several years looking across Europe at what was happening in the motorway forecourt industry.

CONTACT DETAILS They looked at ways to improve current designs and at how they could Junction 14 Mayfield, tailor existing ideas to suit the Irish Mayfield, market. They spent a lot of time Monasterevin, working out the ideal distance that the Co. Kildare. site should be situated from Dublin, and Telephone: 045 532480 it was agreed that Monasterevin was Fax: 045 532199 the perfect location as this was where motorists were actually looking for a Website: www.junction14mayfield.ie break.

Once the site had been identified, Donal and Liam went to work on Best Wishes To Junction 14 Mayfield, From making their ideas a reality.

“The lads did a lot of research in Italy and Germany, and this is the model STATUTORY AUDITORS, they felt would best suit the Irish market.

CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS & TAX ADVISORS They’ve set the Auditing & Accounting benchmark for all Taxation Financial Services & Consultancy future service stops Computer Applications in Ireland and this is something they The Manse, Northgate St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, should be T +353 (0) 90 6474119 F +353 (0) 90 6475264 E info@hardimanaccountants.ie www.hardimanaccountants.ie complimented on,” Gavin concludes.

Best Wishes To Junction 14 Mayfield, From

VODACON LIMITED TILING & FLOORING

COMMERCIAL | RESIDENTIAL INDUSTRIAL

Fit & Suppliers of all types of Tiles| Mosaics | Terrazzo & Stone | Safety Floors Carpet Tiles | Hygienic Walls & Ceilings Sand & Cement Screeds and Levellers

Best Wishes To Junction 14 Mayfield

QUALITY ASSURED AND COMPETITIVE PRICES 54 Castleknock Elms, Castleknock, Dublin 15 M: 086 12307819 E:vodaconlimited@yahoo.com 54

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The Roadtec Shuttle Buggy being escorted as an abnormal load

A sound surface Over the course of the past decade or so, the road network throughout Southern Ireland has improved dramatically as motorways and dual carriageways have emerged linking all the major towns and cities throughout the country.

A wide screed paver in action

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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T

ravelling times have been greatly reduced and if the Celtic Tiger left one legacy behind, it would be the road infrastructure that has brought us on a par with the rest of Europe.

One company that has been involved in many of Ireland's road projects was the renowned Lagan Group, whose Just a selection of the paver fleet expertise and leadership left them at the forefront of road building. Working closely with Lagan for many years has been McManus Brothers and for this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the Antrim based company and speak to one of the managing directors, Danny McManus Snr about the success of the business.

Having worked together for a number of years previously, brothers Danny and Eugene McManus decided to set up their own business in 1999 and from their headquarters in Randalstown, the company was established.

Specialising in road surfacing, the company's reputation soon grew as did their portfolio, but Danny admits that their connection with the Lagan Group really helped the business grow over the years.

“When a company like the Lagan Group offer you work, you know you must be doing something right as they won't settle for anything less than the best. Right from when we started we knew that we had to provide the best service possible and that is something that we have always strived to do,” stressed Danny.

The company's mission statement is posted on their website and it reads: 'Our mission is to be the best partner for our customers, suppliers and employees. To realize our vision, we will strive for profitable growth, operational excellence, customer satisfaction and strong branding position within the market.' This shows the ethos by which the company has grown on and has paved the way for their success.

McManus Brothers have been involved in some of the biggest road projects both north and south of the border and these include the Dublin Port Tunnel, M3, M4 and M6 motorways and the M1/A1 north route to name just a few.

Some of the plant used in the surfacing of the Dublin Port Tunnel

“Through our work with Lagan, we have been involved in many big projects over the years. We would be the largest provider of asphalt pavers and road rolling equipment in Ireland and we also provide the largest manpower teams to the different divisions in this sector. Whatever the customers requirements, McManus Brothers are driven to meet their needs and exceed their expectations, it all depends on the intensity of the work.”

Not only do McManus Brothers have the man power to work on such prestigious projects, but few companies can rival their equipment either.

“We have a close working relationship with Wirtgen which

Best Wishes & Continued Success To

McManus Brothers

HYDRAULICS | MACHINERY| SERVICES | SHOP 24 HOUR EMERGENCY HOSE REPAIR Balcunnin, Skerries, Co. Dublin T: 01 8494144 M: 086 804 5990 E: lhsagri@gmail

www.leinsterhydraulics.ie

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Volkswagen is the preferred choice of van

affords us the comfort of knowing that we can meet any and all of our clients' needs both domestically and internationally.

The partnership with the Lagan Group has allowed this family ran business to diversify into other areas and they now provide services in Transport Management, Specialised Asphalt Paver, Mastic Asphalt Services and Plant Hire.

“Since the economic downturn, we felt that it was important to be able to diversify into other areas and we have worked hard to improve the other services that we provide. We also have a haulage company, which we operate under MMB Transport and this operates throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland each and every day to ensure that our clients specialist machinery can be where it needs to be on time.

“Specialising in machinery transport,

Work on the M6 as sonic sensors maintain the level and averaging beam gives a smoother running surface

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McManus Brothers have all top of the range plant

heavy haulage and abnormal load transport, MMB Transport can provide our customers with the comfort of knowing that even the most demanding of loads will be handled professionally, efficiently and safely.”

Keeping a well maintained fleet is one of the company's main priorities whether it be the haulage or the plant, everything must be in perfect working order for the McManus Brothers. “We carry out our own in house maintenance, while we tend to upgrade the fleet and plant every five years.”

The success of the business can be gauged by the fact that McManus Brothers Surfacing & Plant Hire has opened a European Division in Poland, having almost completed approximately 15km of motorway on Poland's new A1.

This new carriageway has been surfaced by McManus Brothers Poland using wide screed, high compaction technologies up to a width of 12.5m utilising the

largest paver in Wirtgens arsenal.

"We have and will continue to offer a quality product and service to all clients. This includes the supply of manpower, plant and equipment as well as expertise in the field of roadsurfacing and associated services.”

CONTACT DETAILS McManus Brothers Head Office 42 Barnish Road, Randalstown, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT41 2EJ Tel: 0044 (0) 28 9447 9111 0044 (0) 28 9447 3399 Fax: 0044 (0) 28 9447 3569 E-mail:danny@mcmanusbrothers.net eugene@mcmanusbrothers.net McManus Brothers ROI 16 Roden Place, Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland Web: www.mcmanusbrothers.net

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Redcastle is also an end of life treatment facility

Redcastle: for all your recycling needs Redcastle Skip Hire & Recycling is a Donegal based company that has made huge strides in the industry since its inception in 2005.

I

n this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile Redcastle and speak to company MD Hugh Barr about the success of the business over the past seven years. First we take a look at how the company was initially formed.

58

Hugh revealed that having worked in Dublin for a number of years in the construction industry, he saw a niche in the market for skip hire. On returning back to Donegal, he decided to set up his own business and it's a decision he

has never regretted.

“I just thought there was a gap in the market for a skip hire business in Donegal and went about setting up my own company,” Revealed Hugh. “We are based in Innisowen and there are IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

industry and he stressed that this is a huge blow to the waste 120 skips out on hire. sector.

“We operate two trucks for collecting "Any vehicle that comes in here is monitored throughout materials, which are brought back to the yard each process and we now have the capabilities of recycling for sorting and then sent on to the relevant over 85% of the vehicle, in accordance with EU legislation. facilities for recycling. Since the end of the We had to invest heavily in order to achieve this and then you construction boom, the skip hire end of the have some so called companies come along and tell you that business is not quite as busy, although in they will dispose of your vehicle, when in fact they take bits saying that we are still kept going. and pieces off them and then just dump them while all fluids “However, we have placed a greater are still in the vehicle." emphasis on developing our end of life vehicle “We are service-driven and that has always been crucial to facility after we obtained the necessary permit our customers. We provide a top-class service and customers a few months ago and this is an area we are really appreciate that. We tend to deal mainly with small-toworking on at the moment.” medium-sized companies who are totally dependent on An end-of-life vehicle (or ELV) is a car or light service. Once you look after those guys, by giving them the commercial vehicle which is to be disposed of level of service they expect, they will continue to do business by the registered owner (in other words, a car with you. or small van which is to be scrapped). Since 1 “Because we come from a construction background January 2006, owners of intact end-of-life cars ourselves, we recognised the importance of having a skip and vans must deposit such vehicles at an delivered on time and - even more importantly - having it appropriately permitted or licensed authorised taken away when it's supposed to be. We provide a service treatment facility (ATF). that customers can depend on.”

“An authorised treatment facility may not It follows naturally that the company's reputation was charge for accepting an end-of-life vehicle. enhanced through positive word of mouth. As news spread When one of these vehicles is deposited at an through small operators, contractors and subbies that authorised treatment facility, the owner will Redcastle Skip & Recycling was offering a dependable, receive a certificate of destruction,” said John. reliable and prompt skip hire service that was flexible and “The disposal of end-of-life vehicles is controlled because they can pose a threat The company operates from to the environment.

Inishowen in Co. Donegal This is largely because of the hazardous materials contained in end-of-life vehicles.

These include, for example, lead acid batteries, fluids including lubricating oil, coolant, brake fluid, and catalytic convertors, all of which must be disposed of safely in order to prevent pollution.

“We operate to the strictest E.U. technical guidelines as stipulated in European and Council Directive 2000/53/EC on End-of-Life Vehicles.

We endeavour to ensure vehicles are de-polluted, dismantled and recycled Redcastle Skip Hire & Recycling is established seven years with the minimum impact on the environment.Responsible disposal of vehicles also reduces the number of such vehicles being abandoned or illegally dumped. In fact, it is estimated that in Ireland in 2008 89% of all endof-life vehicles were illegally disposed of (without CoDs).

All hazardous wastes are removed including fuel, coolants, oil, brake fluid, tyres and batteries and they are either reused or sent to various licensed sites for recycling or disposal.

"We have invested heavily in upgrading the facilities to EU standards and we have installed a depollution area, we have storage tanks in a bonded wall."

Hugh feels angry over how freely rogue operators can work in the IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

59

bin is overloaded, we won't collect it.

You can't take any chances in this line of work. All the skips are secure; our vehicles are fully serviced; the drivers wear the relevant protective clothing and we have all the relevant permits and licences in place.”

“We'd call for more rigid enforcement of rules right across the board. When you do it by the book it can be frustrating to see others getting away with flaunting the rules. Maybe the penalties aren't sufficient to deter people. We would call for more severe deterrents to prevent illegal operators from operating within the industry.”

Survival can be difficult in this line of business. But seven years since its inception, Redcastle is positively thriving and it's all down to the excellent level of service.

Volvo is the preferred choice of truck

CONTACT DETAILS affordable, the calls started to flood in.

“We put customers first at all times and we find that pays its own dividends.

We have developed through a focus on customer needs and what the customer has dictated to us."

How important is health and safety in the day-to-day running of the business?

“It has really come to the fore over the

past five years and it's an area that we take very seriously. Health and safety are paramount and we run under a very strict code of conduct to ensure the absolute welfare of our staff, customers and the public at large. Our instructions to our drivers are quite simple: be ultravigilant at all times; if you're not happy with something then just don't do it. If a

Redcastle Skip Hire & Recycling Inishowen, Co Donegal Tel: 074 9383877 Mob: 087 2629043 E-mail: redcastleskiphire@gmail.com

Best Wishes To Redcastle Skip Hire & Recycling, From

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For all your transport requirements The days of going out and buying brand new trucks or vans seems to be a thing of the past, due to the current economic recession that has strangled the nation in a vice-like grip. The demand for second hand vehicles has reached such a level that it is hard to source these now and even then a customer is taking a chance when purchasing as the vehicle may not be up to the standard required.

The company has over 200 vehicles on hire

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

61

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Wishing Fleet Plan Hire Ltd continued success IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Fleetplan is based in Cloughran, Co. Dublin

T

hat is why more and more companies are turning their attention to the hire industry and option to contract hire vehicles for the necessary jobs. This is a cost efficient method for a lot of companies in this climate as costs are fixed for the agreed period of time and all their maintenance is incorporated in the hire cost.

There are a number of truck hire centres around the country, but not many have the experience of Fleet Plan in Co. Dublin. The company was established in 2004, by Jarlath Kelly who has a life time involvement in the haulage industry and he has brought this vast experience to his business.

They say location is key to the success of any business and Fleet Plan Hire Ltd can lay claim to a prime location on the Old Airport Road, Cloughran, Dublin. From here, Jarlath and his team of ten employees cater for more than 200 vehicles ranging from artics right down to vans.

This alone suggests that Fleet Plan are the leaders in their field of expertise focusing on service and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Having been involved in the haulage industry for about 20 years beforehand Jarlath saw an opportunity to start up the business in Truck & Van rentals and Contract Hire and it has taken over from there in the last eight years. The Company has built up a decent size customer base, many of who are repeat customers. Their customers would vary from Transport & logistic companies, to IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

the private sector, where people may just need a van for a day to move house or something like that.

The Company's packages are tailored to suit all customers and so is the fleet.

They supply everything from small vans to large trucks, with a choice of styles to suit all requirements. The Company will work with you to develop and grow your company cost effectively. All their customers receive first class service and they offer the most competitive rates in the industry. They provide a large variety of vans and trucks to suit your exact specification for both business and personal requirements.

Their rates are flexible for both short and long-term hire periods.

Customers can be guaranteed to have the peace of mind when it comes to the quality of the vehicle they hire as all Fleet Plan vehicles undergo maintenance and service checks in house to the highest standard prior to every rental.

Fleet Plans main priority is to ensure that the vehicle is in perfect working order, so as to ensure that vehicles don't breakdown while on a job thereby keeping downtime to a minimum for the customer and upholding the company's reputation.

Of the fleet for hire, 65% of it is Mercedes, while Ford, Isuzu, Fiat, MAN and Scania make up the majority of the rest and the company also caters to the individual requests for specific makes and models from various customers.

Flexibility is all part and parcel of Fleet Plans focus.

The majority of Fleet Plans work would be contract Hire and long term rental.

Fleet Plan Hire Ltd has grown by 15%-20% each year since it first opened its doors in 2004, a statistic that the company is keen to continue for many years to come. They are always looking to expand and have done so since they first started. There has been steady growth here and they aim to continue that trend.

Fleet Plan Hire Ltd now has an inhouse workshop where all maintenance work is carried out as they strive to give their customers the best service possible. “Our aim is to have a successful business and I think we are on the right road. Our customers have been very good to us and our aim is to protect them by giving them the right deals and making sure that they are satisfied with the service provided thereby allowing them to focus on running other aspects of their business.�

CONTACT DETAILS Fleet Plan Hire Ltd Unit 3, Advanced Business Park, Old Airport Road, Cloughran, Co. Dublin Tel. 01 842 4211 Fax. 01 842 4212 Email: info@fleetplan.ie

63

Breaking the mould Are you looking for affordable quality spares for your car, van or truck? If so, TD Caldwell & Sons Ltd in Co. Meath is certainly worth a visit.

T

D Caldwell & Sons Ltd has firmly established itself as one of the leading car dismantler and scrap metal recycling businesses in the country. Previously operating under different ownership, the business was taken over by its current owners 11 years ago.

A sister company of TD Caldwell Ltd which has specialised in crash repairs and panel beating for

64

The crusher

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The yard in Ballinlough

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

over 35 years, TD Caldwell & Sons operates from Ballinlough, Kells, Co. Meath from where it supplies parts to the motor trade and general public. The family-run business supplies only quality parts and has earned a reputation for reliability, value-for-money and unrivalled customer service.

“My father Dermot has been running an accident and crash repairs business in Navan for many years and decided to form a separate company specialising in car dismantling in 2001,” explains Gary Caldwell, who looks after dismantling at TD Caldwell & Sons.

“He then noticed that there was a growing demand for second hand car parts and that this business complimented what we were already doing. So he bought the yard we’re in today from another company that had been in the same business as us. We diversified into mainstream scrap mental and we’re now one of the biggest scrap buyers in the Leinster region.”

TD Caldwell & Sons supplies quality used parts for cars, light commercials and HGVs. Customers have the option of buying from its online store where everything from body parts, batteries, lamps and mirrors to hub caps, drive shafts and alternators are available. To view the full range of parts, just log onto www.askauto.ie “People are looking for the best value nowadays and they can always be guaranteed of that when they deal with us,” Gary says.

“A few years ago, people wouldn’t have thought anything of going out and buying new parts, but the recession has changed everything. Most of the parts we stock are every bit as good as new ones. It’s all about giving the customers value-for-money.”

TD Caldwell & Sons supplies parts for all makes and models from 1990 to 2012. The company is always on the lookout for disused or crashed cars, vans, trucks, forklifts, tractors, farm and factory equipment and other loose scrap as well as aluminium, copper, batteries, alloy wheels etc. TD Caldwell offers a minimum of €150 per car, €180 for number one steel, €425 per tonne for batteries and up to €900 for aluminium.

Due to customer demand TD Caldwell & Sons are going to open a motor factors in Ballinlough.

65

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66

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

TD Caldwell & Sons is proud to be a member of the Irish Motor Vehicle Recyclers’ Association (IMVRA). By buying a part through the IMVRA network, customers are guaranteed a certified “green” part from an Irish business. The IMVRA is committed to supporting the environment and Irish jobs.

Gary says scrap metal recycling companies face an “on-going battle” with insurance companies who refuse to pay out on claims for certain second hand parts. He also bemoans the lack of support offered to them by the Government in these difficult economic times.

“Using second hand parts isn’t an issue with insurance companies in the UK, but it is here for some reason. The Irish Motor Vehicle Recyclers’ Association are fighting our corner in that regard.

“A massive issue facing everyone in the motor trade at present is the rising cost of fuel. It’s affecting everyone – ourselves included. We were very busy up until the scrappage scheme ended a year ago, but things have gone very quiet since then and the cost of fuel is another problem we have to try and deal with. It’s all about trying to keep your head above water and staying afloat at the moment.”

Dermot Caldwell’s original company, TD Caldwell, is still going strong, being the largest accident and crash repairs and service centre in the northeast. For over three decades, the Navan-based company has been taking the stress out of crash repairs for customers. An appointed Mercedes and Honda repairer, TD Caldwell offers a full range of crash repairs, panel beating, accident repairs and spray-painting for the greater Meath, Louth and Dublin areas. In addition, it is appointed by all major insurance companies, including AXA, FBD, Aviva and Quinn Direct.

In conclusion, Gary says TD Caldwell & Sons will continue to offer the best parts and service to its ever-expanding customer-base.

“We go out of our way to look after our customers and that’s reflected in the large amount of repeat business we get.

We’ve invested heavily in our premises and also

pride ourselves on being environmentally friendly.”

TD Caldwell & Sons is open from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.

CONTACT DETAILS TD Caldwell & Sons Ltd. Ballinlough, Kells, Co. Meath Tel: 0818-227-033 Fax: 046-924-3068 Email:garycaldwell@eircom.net

Continued Best Wishes To TD Caldwell & Sons Ltd, From

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

67

The specialists

The rigid trucks and drivers, l/r: Mark Carrig, Neil Mullen, Gary Lynch and David Mullen

The haulage industry has come under a lot of pressure in the last couple of years as lowering rates and rising fuel costs have left many companies struggling to survive during these testing times.

A

fuel rebate has been sought, but at present, the government seems unwilling to do anything about the situation leaving many businesses trying to reduce their overheads as much as possible. Unfortunately for some hauliers, they have been unable to cope with the current plight, but those with more experience seem to have adjusted to the current economic climate and more importantly, they have continued to provide the same level of service for their customers.

One such company is Co Meath based Neil Mullen Transport and in this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the company

68

The company is based in Ashbourne, Co. Meath

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

David Mullen sets of on a job

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

and have a chat with owner Neil Mullen about the challenging times and how he has dealt with them.

Having worked in the haulage industry for eleven years, Neil along with his wife Susan decided in 1996 to establish their own business and he admits that it was a big undertaking, one which would change their lives forever.

“I had been eleven years with the same company beforehand and having discussed the idea with my wife, we decided to proceed and set up our own business. It was a big step to take, but with the experience I had in the industry, we felt that we could make it work,” said Neil.

“We got some work hauling office furniture around the country and I'm glad to say we are still doing the same work today for the same customer.” It proved to be the right decision as expansion soon followed. “Having operated just one truck, we had to add another one to the fleet after about six months. At that time we needed another driver and Sean Hayes came to work for us and he is still with us today.

“We have scaled back slightly and now have five trucks on the road. The drivers have all been with us a few years now and they are very reliable and dependable. They have a great relationship with the customers and they are the ones dealing with them on a daily basis, so they are representing the company. This is very much a family run business and my son David is now the transport manager.”

Unfortunately, the Mullen family had to deal with some personal tragedy earlier this year when Neil's brother in law Alan Brabazon, who was his former transport manager, passed away after battling a long illness.

“Alan's untimely death hit us all very hard and it puts a lot of things into perspective.”

The business itself has continued to grow over the years and from their premises in Ashbourne Industrial Estate, the company offer warehousing for their customers as part of the various services provided.

“We are 16 years in business now and I'm pleased with the direction that the company is heading in. These are challenging times for the haulage industry in general. There are many overheads to consider and every decision has to be made with the utmost caution.

“The rise in the price of fuel is probably the most contentious issue in the industry at the moment, while the rates have dropped also, which has not helped the situation at all. Like most hauliers, we have had to tighten our belts, but we are always on the lookout for more work and we have plans to expand the fleet next year. This year we bought a new DAF and we are happy with that so we feel that we are expanding all the time.”

Offering an exceptional level of service is a key part of the business and Neil explained that is crucial in refrigeration work: “We specialise in commercial refrigeration distribution, and carry out a lot of work on behalf of one refrigeration company. These are specialised handling and time sensitive deliveries.”

The quality of Neil Mullen Transport’s refrigerated work has lead to new contracts in recent times.

“We are now transporting medical equipment to hospitals, which is again extremely time sensitive work. We are very proud that we are attracting these new customers

69

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Best wishes to Neil Mullen Transport, from

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A pallet load of furniture is placed on a truck

thanks to the level of service we offer.”

Neil revealed that the maintenance is an important area of the business that helps ensure that the day to day running of the business goes smoothly. “Maintenance is a key area of the business and one that we place a great emphasis on.

Customers don't want to be hearing about a truck breaking down or any excuses, it is essential that deliveries are made on time, because if they are not, they will just take their business elsewhere and that is something we cannot afford to happen.”

Neil does feel that the economy will get back on its feet in the near future, which may see the bank releasing more money and this will lead to more investment being made into businesses.

“I do think there will be an upturn in the economy over the next couple of years.

The banks need to start releasing some money for this to happen as companies need to invest. We will continue to provide the high standard of service that our customers have become accustomed too and hopefully we can expand to the level that we want. Lastly I would like to thank our customers for their continued business over the years.”

The experienced team, l/r: David Mullen, Neil Mullen, Gary Lynch, Mark Carrig (missing from photo is Sean Hayes

CONTACT DETAILS Neil Mullen Transport Ashbourne Industrial Estate Ashbourne Co Meath

Five trucks operate on a daily basis

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tel: 1890 941393 Mobile: 087 268 4498 Fax: (01) 8350427 info@neilmullentransport.ie

71

A Stronge presence Stronge Haulage Ltd is a well-established company specialising in bulk milk transportation. Founder and managing director Cecil Stronge explains more.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

E

stablished in 1990, Stronge Haulage (formerly CRJ Stronge & Sons) provides a top-class and reliable delivery and collection service for two of Ireland’s leading milk producers – Connacht Gold and Ballyrashane Creamery.

Based in Castlederg, Co. Tyrone, the company covers an area which extends from Ballyrashane’s base in Coleraine, Co. Derry to Connacht Gold’s creamery in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. With the help of his wife Maureen, sister Eve, sons Keith and Jason as well as his long-time transport manager Harry Scott, Cecil Stronge has turned his company into a successful operation which employs 12 staff and boasts a nine-strong fleet of tractor units.

“I used to work for a creamery in Irvinestown, Co. Fermanagh – West Ulster Farmers – before going out on my own and doing milk runs for them,” Cecil recalls.

“I started out with a 10-tonne Scania in 1990 and gradually built up the fleet after that. We had three or four rigids in the early years, but we’ve now got to the stage where we’re operating nine tractor units. We have four DAF, three MAN, one Renault and one Volvo.

“We also have four collection tankers of our own, one refrigerated trailer and three that are owned by Connacht Gold. Our state-of-the-art tankers have specialised stainless steel bodies which are heavily insulated and keep milk cold during transportation,” he adds.

Stronge Haulage collects milk from farms all over Ulster for production at the Ballyrashane and Connacht Gold creameries.

In addition, the company has a door-to-door milk delivery run in Co. Fermanagh and operates a low-loader which transports heavy machinery.

“We collect milk from farms in Derry, Coleraine, Limavady, Newtownstewart, Castlederg, Fintona and Dromore to name but a few. The milk is then brought to Connacht Gold where it is processed into a wide variety of dairy products.

We also do secondary transport for Ballyrashane to Virginia, Co. Cavan and Lakeland Dairies in Killeshandra. We collect cream Stronge Haulage specialise in bulk milk haulage in Fivemiletown, Augher and other places on the return journey.”

So how did Ballyrashane Creamery and Connacht Gold become Stronge Haulage’s two main customers? Cecil replies: “West Ulster Farmers was bought by Bangor Dairies which in turn was taken over by Ballyrashane. Bangor Dairies retained our services after they bought out West Ulster Farmers and Ballyrashane Creamery stayed loyal to us after their takeover of Bangor Dairies.

“We had been doing a run for Donegal Creameries before they were taken over by Connacht Gold, so that’s how The fleet is made up of Volvo, MAN, DAF and Renault that connection came about.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

“Ballyrashane and Connacht Gold are two great companies to work for – not least because you’re always sure of our money from them!” he jokingly remarks.

Employing 150 staff at its Coleraine site, Ballyrashane Creamery has the distinction of being Northern Ireland’s oldest creamery. It produces milk for Spar, the Henderson Group, Marks & Spencer and also for its own Ballyrashane brand label. As a major manufacturer of butter in Northern Ireland, its butter is sold globally as well as locally to retail outlets. In recent years the company has been developing speciality cheeses which are currently supplied to the Greek and Italian markets.

Connacht Gold was established in 2000 following the merger of the North Connacht Farmers’ Co-operative Society (NCF) and Kitoghert Co-Operative Agricultural & Dairy Society Ltd. With headquarters in Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo, the co-op employs over 700 staff directly with operations extending to the UK. Last year, it purchased Donegal Creameries in deal worth over €20 million. The takeover involved Donegal Creameries’ 120 million litres milk pool, a liquid milk processing facility at Killygordon and 11 retail stores – nine in Donegal and two in Northern Ireland.

Connacht Gold has over 14,000 farmer shareholders throughout Connacht and Donegal, divided into 24 electoral groups. Each electoral group elects an advisory committee, which in turn elects the board of directors. Many of its

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Best Wishes To Stronge Haulage Ltd From

Drumbrick, Termon, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

Tel: 086-1269126 Best wishes to Stronge Haulage Ltd., from employees are also shareholders and they have a separate electoral group and advisory committee who also elect a board member.

Connacht Gold is more than just a co-op. It is a diversified business dealing in Food and Dairy, Ingredients, Agribusiness, Livestock Marketing, Property Management and Timber Processing. The coop is also involved in a local radio enterprise.

Cecil reveals how rising fuel costs is the biggest strain on his business.

“The price of diesel is crazy,” he complains.

“When I first started, diesel was 38p a litre – it’s now £1.25. That’s some change in 22 years. What will it be like in another few years? It’s putting terrible pressure on transport companies whose profit

margins are falling all the time. It’s all about trying to keep your head above water at the moment.”

In conclusion, Cecil pays tribute to his customers and staff who have contributed to his company’s growth.

“We have brilliant customers and staff who have made us the business we are today.

Our customers are very important to us and that is why we will always go out of our way to look after them.”

TRANSPORT Gallows Lane, Lifford, Co. Donegal

Tel: 086-6045613 Best Wishes To Stronge Haulage Ltd, From

CONTACT DETAILS Stronge Haulage Ltd 79 Strabane Road, Castlederg, Co. Tyrone BT81 7HZ Telephone: 028 8167 0653

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Best Wishes To Stronge Haulage Ltd., From Fyfin Road, Strabane, Co. Tyrone Tel: (028) 81658287 • Mobile: 0776 810 8251

Best Wishes To Stronge Haulage Ltd.

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219 Drum Rd., Cookstown BT80 9HR

Tel: 028 867 51261 Fax: 028 867 51882

E: alastairlyttle@btconnect.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Fureys celebrate 40 years at the top This year Fureys Coaches are celebrating their 40th anniversary and have been leading the way in luxury bus transportation through the past five decades.

T

he success of their coach business to date is as a result of providing efficient bus transportation in a range of luxurious coaches, mainly being Mercedes and Daf models.

Customers travelling with Fureys Coaches are guaranteed utmost comfort with all larger capacity coaches available with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, fridges, tables and on board toilet.

Customers can also be assured of a dependable service with professional drivers who will cater to customers needs to the best of their ability.

Fureys Coaches is managed by Martin Furey with assistant managers Aidan and Paul Furey in charge of recruitment, maintenance and supervision of both coaches and staff.

In 1972, Martin purchased his first mini bus – a Volkswagen IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

8-seater at a cost of ÂŁ1,600. One year later, with the help of his wife Mary, expanded the business and went on to purchase a larger coach.

Martin is proud of the success of his business to date which he dedicates to his loyal customers as well as his new customers and also the range of services Fureys Coaches provide.

As well as catering for private tours both in Ireland and Europe, Fureys Coaches also operate numerous services countrywide, one such service being a direct connection from Sligo to Dublin which runs from September to May. Details of timetables and prices can be found on their website, www.thebus.ie.

Whether it is bus hire, luxury coach tours or corporate travel,

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Campion Insurance would like to wish Fureys Coaches continued success in the future For the right cover, the right price and the best service, contact your local office or email info@campionins.com 100 Main Street, Cashel, Co. Tipperary Telephone: 062 61991

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customers can be guaranteed a professional, dependable service. All passengers can sit back, relax and enjoy the comfort and experience of their excursions within Ireland or overseas in Fureys luxury fleet.

Customers can personally arrange their itineraries with Aidan and Paul to suit their requirements.

Martin would like to sincerely thank all of his customers and staff who have supported his business to date and looks forward to retaining their loyalty in the future.

CONTACT DETAILS Fureys Coaches Milltown, Drumcliffe, Co. Sligo Tel: 0719163092 Website: www.fureysofsligo.com Email: info@fureysofsligo.com

Fureys Coaches offer luxury travel

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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The abnormal load specialists

Transporting abnormal and heavy loads can be a daunting task, but not for the experts and leading the way in this field of expertise is O'Neill's Heavy Haulage. Operating out of Hospital, Co. Limerick for over 60 years, this thriving family-run business has set many records in recent years for the longest, widest and heaviest loads ever seen on Irish roads.

T

his family run business experience has left its rivals in its wake as the O'Neill's have been providing the same high quality level of service since 1947.

Specialising in heavy and abnormal loads, O'Neill's Heavy Haulage operate throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe and are well respected in the industry for their reliability and unrivalled service. The experience of their management team, combined with the capabilities of their specialised haulage equipment, means that O'Neill's can fulfil a wide range of haulage needs and find a cost-effective solution to every transport problem.

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The company covers every aspect of transporting wide and heavy loads and this includes: conducting route surveys, obtaining necessary permits, removal of obstacles (temporary or permanent), liaising with police/GardaĂ­ and the organisation of third party equipment such as cranes.

For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the Limerick based company and speak to managing director Jimmy O'Neill about the success of the business. “The family has been involved in the transportation of heavy haulage since the late forties and we continue to do so today.

We provide a wide range of services to a large customer base IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

An impressive view of what O’Neill’s do on a daily basis

Stainless steel vessels in transport

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

and we have been involved in some major projects across Ireland and the U.K,” said Jimmy.

Among the heavy haulage projects carried out by the company are The Spire in Dublin's O'Connell Street and the transfer of the sugar-making plant from Carlow to Mallow in Co. Cork. The total weight of the convoy for the latter project was in excess of 1,000 tonnes, which is an Irish record.

Jimmy admits that he has seen many changes to the industry over the years most of which have been good for the haulage industry, but there is still room for improvement.

“There is a lot more planning needed when moving heavy goods and we would liaise with the Gardaí and the relevant authorities when carrying out any job. The road network has also improved significantly and that has made a huge difference to our business, but Ireland still needs an easier method of applying and obtaining permits. Advance planning in one county recently took five weeks to obtain permits and it’s a total paper chase and nightmare.

“One of the other setbacks at the moment is the price of diesel, which has gone through the roof in the last couple of years.”

Jimmy revealed that they are involved in the movement of wind turbines to different locations around the country and this has helped keep them busy. “We are presently very busy transporting wind turbines and it has been a great help to us, but it also needs a lot more equipment and the turbines are getting bigger and heavier, the blades are getting longer some at 55 metres, so there is always new equipment being sourced and purchased. We could be moving them to anywhere in the country. We also have our own towing equipment where the incline is greater than 15 degrees, rather than putting excessive pressure on clutches gearboxes and drive axles, we tow the trucks carrying the windmill loads up this incline reducing excess pressure on the tractor units and also reducing maintenance.

“Then if the wind turbine base is on a decline we attach the towing vehicle at the rear of the trailer holding back the complete load on the decline.

“We now have three of these towing vehicles in use and are a great addition in delivering wind turbines; these are transported to each of the wind turbine location sites.

“We also transport stainless steel vessels from BCD in Charleville who are currently involved in the major expansion of Irish Distillery in Midleton (which are pictured in transit on the left). We know the importance of providing the best service possible and we feel that is something that we have always looked to do.

“The experience of our management team and equipment operators, combined with the capabilities of our specialised haulage equipment means that we can fulfil a broad range of haulage needs and find a cost effective solution to every transport problem.”

O'Neill's Heavy Haulage has an extensive fleet of specialised equipment, including six tractor units consisting of Volvo, Scania and DAF, and over 30

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Wishing Continued Success To O’Neill’s Heavy Haulage, From

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A typical abnormal load being transported by O’Neill’s Heavy Haulage

specialist trailers. The trailers consist of both hydraulic and air suspension and have interchangeable and extendable components. In addition, O'Neill's operate their own maintenance service to ensure that all equipment is serviced and maintained to the highest standard and will be fully operational when required by a customer.

Ten staff are employed by O'Neill's Heavy Haulage, the majority of which are drivers and Jimmy revealed that they all play a huge part in the success of the business. “Our drivers are all good lads, who have a wealth of experience in this business. They are familiar with the roads and they have a good understanding and relationship with the Gardai who they would be dealing with on a regular basis due to the nature of the business.”

Since 2007, the O'Neill family have been offering an abnormal load escort

O’Neill Heavy Haulage specialise in the transport of wind turbines

service to haulage companies specialising in transporting and escorting the movement of abnormal loads. Further information about this service is available on www.abnormalloadescort.ie.

Jimmy established O’Neill’s Heavy Haulage along with his wife Bernie, who tragically passed away in February 2011, and her loss will be forever felt by her family. The couple’s three children – Michael (20), Shauna (18) and Emma (15) – are also involved in the running of the business and have been a great support to Jimmy in difficult times.

Jimmy also runs O'Neill's Pub and Off-licence, and a hardware and fuel store which is a well-known establishment in Hospital and recently purchased the local Dairygold premises where he intends to operate a top of the range maintenance facility for in house use only.

CONTACT DETAILS

The drivers are some of the most experienced operators in the country

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

O'Neill's Heavy Haulage, Hospital, Co. Limerick, Ireland Tel: +353 (0)61 383 114 +353 (0)61 383 146 Fax: +353 (0)61 383 022 Mobile: +353 (0)87 2575 358 Email: oneillshospital@eircom.net

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Pioneers in coach touring Over the past 55 years, Cronin’s Coaches has forged a glowing reputation as one of Ireland’s premier coach touring service providers.

We popped into the company’s Cork HQ and had a chat with managing director Derry Cronin and transport, sales and service director Niall Cronin about the proud history, current wellbeing and future prospects of this stellar family business which operates a fantastic, state-of-the-art fleet of luxury passenger transport vehicles.

Cronin’s Coaches can take you anywhere. It’s up to you ...

C

ronin’s Coaches has certainly come a long way since Dermot Cronin purchased his first vehicle back in 1957! The Cork-based business opened depots in Dublin and New York before the turn of the millennium and has evolved with the times into a thriving group of companies that incorporates Dermot Cronin Motors and Specialised Travel Services.

Recognised primarily for the exceptional level of service provided in

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the coach touring industry, Cronin’s Coaches has been honoured with the Irish Tourism Board Award for Excellence and is – quite frankly – a family business without equal.

Cronin’s Coaches was established in Cork city by husband and wife Dermot and Joan Cronin in 1957 and continues very much as a family business today – an astonishing 55 years later. Since its inception, Cronin’s Coaches has been recognised as a reliable, quality coach

tour operator.

From the word go, the company’s highquality transport services were in big demand with Irish event managers, conference organisers and the corporate sector along with Irish and overseas tour operators and travel agents alike. To meet this demand, Cronin’s Coaches grew organically and satellite offices were opened in Dublin and New York in 1996.

Cronin’s Coaches maintains a

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Hool, for example, are the epitome of luxury travel, boasting air-conditioning, generous luggage storage space, PA systems, cool boxes, tinted glass, toilets and tables upon request. These range from 36- to 53-seaters and can accommodate parties up to 38 - 48 passengers As of December 2010, Cronin’s Coaches is being overseen by the second generation of the Cronin family: the founders’ sons and daughters Derry, Niall, Nora, Anne and Margaret now oversee the day-to-day running of the company and invest a personal touch as well as vast experience into daily operations.

“We started out in ’57 with a private car and then brought in some vans and minibuses before breaking into the tourism work during the 1960s,” Derry notes. “We have a fleet of 45 vehicles at the moment, primarily Van Hool coaches and a few chauffeur-driven vehicles. We’ve been using Van Hool since the early 1980s and the vast majority of our work today would be in the coach touring sector.”

Within the Cronin Travel Group is Dermot Cronin Motors in Cork, which is a Van Hool agent providing the full range of sales, service and parts, and Specialised Travel Services, which is an incoming tour operator. “But Cronin’s Coaches is very much the backbone of the business,” Niall points out.

“The company has grown substantially over the years. We have been one of the market leaders in the touring business since coach touring took off in the ‘60s, building our business on the back of quality vehicles and quality drivers and guides.

Most of our business would come from overseas, where we provide coaches for tourists and visitors to the country.”

In terms of catchment area, Cronin’s will go wherever the work is. “The vehicles will only earn money while they are on the road, so we operate nationwide and also in the UK. There has been a spread of tourism nationwide, with most visitors now wishing to take in as much of the country as they can,” Derry says.

Tourism, of course, is one of the great products that Ireland can still offer. “It’s improving,” the MD relates. “And the coach tour market is one of the big performers. There may not be many iconic attractions in Ireland but as a nation we have a great deal to offer – we have a history, a culture and a heritage and we also have great people, who are renowned internationally for their hospitality and friendliness. So there’s big demand for a sightseeing product that includes meeting the people. As a product, tourism – like everything else -

stunning fleet of deluxe vehicles, ranging from state-of-the-art coaches to VIP chauffeur-driven vans and executive cars. The varied fleet of modern vehicles includes private cars, mini vans, 30- to 53-seater executive coaches and double decker buses, which can provide a full range of luxury transport solutions including airport transfers; chauffeur drive; corporate transport; city tours; itinerary planning; group touring; family events and tours; transfers to sports events; schools trips and services, etc.

Full-spec, high-view touring coaches from Van IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The Cronin family (l/r): Margaret, Niall, Dermot, Derry and Nora.

Missing from photo is Anne

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started to decline around 2007 but there has been a small recovery in 2011 and again so far in 2012.”

As they also run their own Van Hool dealership, Cronin’s are in an ideal position to maintain and service their luxury fleet of vehicles in-house. “We can handle our own repairs, servicing, parts etc. and we also provide servicing and repairs for some of the other local operators,” Niall confirms. “We have the facility, the knowledge and the parts to provide that service.

“Our own fleet would be maintained from the workshop at our HQ here in

Cork, which is a state-of-the-art facility.

We’ve been here since 1975, having purchased the site to order and developed it further down through the years as needs require. For example, we’ve recently invested in a new spray booth. We also have a full-time mechanic working at our Dublin depot.”

Cronin’s have a great reputation for the presentation and cleanliness of their vehicles, which are washed daily and maintained in immaculate condition – one of their many hallmarks!

The company is of massive

importance to the local economy as a total of 65 people are employed between full time and part time. Huge GAA supporters, the Cronins are renowned for their work with sports teams and one of their regular clients would be Cork County Board as they transfer a succession of all-conquering Rebel County teams to venues all around the country.

Niall admits that the high price of diesel is placing added pressure on the business: “Like everybody else, you have to soak up a lot of the increases because you have quoted x, y and z for

Pictured at the Vahool TX launch (l/r): Niall Cronin, Eric Olijslagers, Dermot Cronin, Johan Moortgart, Freddy Dierckx, Daan Peeters, Rufin Moyens

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE COMPONENTS Unit 1, Westlink Business Park, Mallow Road, Cork Tel: 021-4303003. Fax: 021-4303008 Email: info@cvc.ie

CONTINUED SUCCESS TO ALL AT CRONIN’S COACHES Ltd. 84

Best Wishes To Cronin’s Coaches Ltd From

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Wishing Cronin’s Coaches Ltd Continued Success In The Future

Best Wishes To Cronin’s Coaches Ltd, From

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FOR ALL YOUR TRUCKING NEWS www.irishtrucker.com 86

Luxury Coach Hire Specialists Main Street, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny.

Ph: 051 643250

Fax: 051 644791 E: info@piltowncoaches.com www.piltowncoaches.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

a three-year contract and you can’t add on a fuel surcharge. You try to anticipate what fuel costs might be, but this is very difficult.

“There are other pressures, too. There is added pressure due to the registration plate legislation. A good touring coach could see ten years. We could only have 250,000km on a coach after five years and might have to replace it at a cost of EUR300,000, which shouldn’t be the case.

“Also, the business is seasonal – about 180-200 days from May until September. Adhering to driver hours legislation is placing us under pressure.

Legislation being introduced by Europe claims to be fair to all countries but this isn’t the case. These rules are unfair in a country where you might only work half of the year.”

Having said all that, Cronin’s Coaches is more

than holding its own and Niall is confident that they will continue to thrive going forward: “This is a very important industry.

Once we delivery a quality service and keep control of our costs, we will we okay. The company has evolved substantially over the past 55 years and there is a good work ethic amongst the staff.

Everybody in the company works very hard and we have a very good product, so we are confident that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Luxury travel is very much the name of the game at Cronin’s Coaches

Contact Details Cronin’s Coaches Ltd. Shannon Buildings, Mallow Road, Cork City.

Tel: 021 4309090 Fax: 021 4305508 Email: cork@croninscoaches.ie www.croninscoaches.ie

Cronin’s Coaches is right on the doorstep of some fantastic attractions

Part of the impressive Cronin’s Coaches fleet

Kearney’s Of Cork Best Wishes To Cronin’s Coaches Ltd Drumconrath Road, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan Tel: 042 966 1631 Fax: 042 969 0760 Email: info@collinscoaches.ie

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A reliable, punctual and stress-free travel experience Continued Good Wishes To Cronin’s Coaches Ltd

87

Greenhall continues to impress

H

owever, for those that are long established, experience has played a vital part in their survival as major decisions are taken with greater care than ever.

It is the nature of the beast to baton down the hatches when faced with adversity, but one Cork based business has decided to meet the recession head on.

When one talks about longevity and knowledge then look no further than Greenhall Motors, which has been in business since 1959.

Stocking a full range of new and second hand passenger and commercial Opel vehicles, Greenhall Motors Ltd has continued to move with the times.

Having started off in Castlecor,

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founder Tim O'Shea decided to move the business to their present location on the Charleville, road, Buttevant, Mallow in 1982. Since then, the premises have undergone many transformations with the latest refurbishment costing a massive €2 million, bringing the business into the 21st century.

Asides from the sales and service departments, Greenhall also provide a VTN light goods test centre that operates six days a week, making the company a one-stop shop for their customers.

With a 13 car showroom at their disposal, the customers are spoilt for choice and these days the company is run by Tim's sons Barry and Tadhg.

For this month's edition of Irish

Trucker, we speak to Barry about the success of the business and profile the company in general.

Greenhall Motors opened one of the country's first light commercial test centres in 1982 and this end of the business has seen many changes over the years.

“Since the RSA has taken over the running of the test centres, there has been a lot more emphasis on legislation, while the testers are sent for refresher courses on an annual basis,” said Barry.

“This end of the business would be very busy, while the workshop would be another area that is open six days a week to suit the customers.”

The success of the business can be gauged by the level of awards that they IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The motor industry has suffered greatly since the current economic recession took a vice-like grip on the nation but it is not all doom and gloom.

Greenhall Motors in Buttevant, Mallow

have won over the years and for the past three years, Greenhall Motors has been named the Opel Dealer of the Year in Ireland.

The company has also won the Chairman's Circle Award, a prestigious accolade presented by General Motors Europe to the elite top performing Opel dealers in Europe, much to the delight of all involved.

The winner is handpicked for their excellence in customer service and sales performance in their chosen country.

Out of a total of 4,750 dealers Europe wide, 60 dealers are awarded the Chairman's Circle Award annually. Greenhall Motors was selected as one of this group of 60 for 2009, 2010 & 2011.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

“We have been very fortunate and delighted to win the numerous awards over the years and it is a real reward for the efforts that everyone in the company puts in on a daily basis.

“We are here to provide the best service possible to our customers and that is something we feel that we are achieving at the moment.

“The sales of new vehicles may have dropped in recent years, but the second hand market is stronger than ever and we have a wide selection to choose from.”

Greenhall Motors are also involved in Opel's Kit for Clubs scheme that has been running for the past few year and this is where a customer receives points for any service they receive and as the

Congratulations on 50 years in business & continued success to Barry and all at Greenhall Motors Ltd From

Mallow Motor Factors Ltd. 20 O’Brien St., Mallow. Tel: 022 21556

89

points are accumulated by other customers, clubs are financially rewarded when targets are met.

“Almost every customer that comes through our gates had an involvement in the GAA in some shape or form. It is

fitting that Opel have been involvement with the GPA and I'm particularly pleased that we can offer our support at grass roots level, which is the most important aspect of the association.

“When you see the facilities that some

of the clubs off, you have to admire them for their hard work and effort. The Mallow GAA club has outstanding facilities and that has come about through the efforts of the club members and it really is a credit to them.”

Barry concluded that their main aim was to continue to provide the same level of service that their customers are used to.

“While there have been many changes over the last 50 years, ultimately the core business ethos remains the same today; putting the customer first and providing a world class product, whilst offering superb value for money. We would also like to thank our customers for their continued support over the years.”

Contact Details: Greenhall Motors Ltd. Charleville Road, Buttevant, Mallow, Co. Cork T: 022 23338 F: 022 23416 E: info@greenhallmotors.com

Greenhall Motors are presented with the Opel Dealer of the Year Award for 2011

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Greenhall Motors Ltd From CLOSE TO YOUR CAR, CLOSER TO YOU

Charleville Tyre & Auto TYRES • EXHAUSTS • SERVICING PASSION for EXCELLENCE

New Line, Charleville, Co. Cork

Tel: (063) 21718 • Fax: (063) 21719 Email: charlevilletyre@gmail.com

Best Wishes To Greenhall Motors Ltd

DERMOT KELLY MOTORS SALES & SERVICE All Makes Supplied New & Used SPECIALISTS IN CRASH REPAIRS

Best Wishes To Greenhall Motors Ltd From

Contact

Garrienderk, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick T:063-81742 M:087-2594666 E: dermot@dermotkellymotors.ie

www.dermotkellymotors.ie Best wishes to Greenhall Motors Ltd

90

Telephone/Fax: 021 4824464 Mobile: 086 6058441 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Giving a voice to vehicle dismantlers The Irish Motor Vehicles Recyclers’ Association (IMVRA) is fighting the corner of vehicle dismantlers and scrap metal recycling businesses throughout the country as Toddy Cuthbert – who is an environmental consultant to the body – explains.

E

stablished in 1996, the Irish Motor Vehicles Recyclers’ Association (IMVRA) is placing a renewed emphasis on increasing its membership and keepings its members up to speed with the issues which concern them.

Representing authorised vehicles dismantlers, the IMVRA promotes the safe reuse of vehicle parts and supports the recovery of certain waste streams. As well as being environmentally friendly, its members reduce the need for foreign imports and create local jobs. The Association is a member EGARA, the European Umbrella Association for Automotive Recyclers.

Earlier this year, the IMVRA enlisted the

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

services of Cork-based environmental consultant Toddy Cuthbert to boost the Association’s membership and to lobby the relevant Government Departments.

“I’m employed as a consultant to the IMVRA,” Toddy explains.

“My brief is to liaise with the Departments on behalf of our members, to get their views across and to report back to them.

We’re very supportive of increased regulation but, at the same time, very concerned about how it will be enforced by the local authorities. There is a long list of issues affecting our members that need to be dealt with at any one time.

“In addition, we are putting a strong emphasis on increasing our membership.

We currently have about 40 members nationwide, but there are 150 authorised vehicle dismantlers in Ireland. So there’s still quite a few who have yet to join.”

Toddy is pleased to report that the IMVRA has a good working relationship with the Minister for the Environment, Community & Local Government Phil Hogan.

“The Minister is very receptive to what we have to say. He is always willing to listen and to take on board any problems our membership might have with legislation and new regulations,” Toddy adds.

The IMVRA encourages all authorised vehicle dismantlers to join their body. After

91

Best Wishes To IMVRA From

Best Wishes To IMVRA From

Paschal Power Car Dismantlers Busherstown, Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny

SCRAP METAL PROCESSORS

www.strtruckspares.ie We dismantle a wide range of makes ie: Volvo, Scania, Daf, Mercedes, Man, Renault & Hino For The Home & Export Trade Our premises is a licenced END OF LIFE WASTE FACILITY, fully compliant with EU regulations.

Cloughleafin Mitchelstown Co Cork.

Tel: 00353 2584162 Fax: 00353 2584471 Neil: 0872587751 Paul:0872062679 Email:paul@strtruckspares.ie Email:neil@strtruckspares.ie Best Wishes To IMVRA From

CUTHBERTENVIRONMENTAL Products & Services • Waste Management • Wastewater • Noise • Air Contact: Toddy Cuthbert BSc 14 Allendale Avenue, Melbourn, Bishopstown, Cork

T: (021) 4346072 • F: (021) 4348475 M: (086) 3864518 • www.cuthbertenvironmental.ie

Continued Best Wishes To IMVRA From

COLLON VEHICLE DISMANTLERS Collon Business Park, Collon, Co. Louth

All Cars/ 4x4’s & Light Commercials

041 9819004/ 041 9819635 92

Tel: 051 878911 Mobile: 086 2579461

Email: pascalmotors@eircom.net Best Wishes To IMVRA From

West Cork 4x4 Dismantlers MANY MORE MODELS IN STOCK Carhugariff Leap, Co. Cork Tel: 028 34513 or 087 9774937 E: timfitzpatrick_motors@yahoo.ie www.westcorkbreakers.com

Wishing Continued Success To IMVRA From

Godfrey Kirby Car Dismantlers T: 021 4632790 M: 087 2458626 Email: kirbycardismantling@gmail.com Bawnard East, Midleton, Co. Cork Wishing Continued Success To IMVRA From

Clonmel

CAR DISMANTLERS Kilganey, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary T: 052 6123147 M: 086 8304307 or 087 6255433 E: clonmelcardismantlers@gmail.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

all, the more members they have the stronger their voice will be.

IMVRA members are offered many benefits through their membership. These include a shared identity (as authorised vehicle dismantlers), industry and regulatory information, health and safety training advice, regulatory advice service, employment relations advice and more much. The Association continues to work to develop new services and create links with businesses that will be beneficial to members.

The IMVRA will advise members on issues that they may have their regulator and represent them if necessary in unjust situations where there are unfair regulations or over-regulations.

The Association lobbies all forms of government, including ministers, the Government Departments, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local authorities on behalf of the industry. The IMVRA represents the views of vehicle dismantlers.

The Association keeps members informed of upcoming legislation, on-going issues and matters that concern the industry. Members will have their say in relation to proposed legislation and on-going issues. Members can also meet up with fellow car dismantlers to share their knowledge and experience on a regular basis.

Members can also benefit from being linked to the IMVRA’s

Best Wishes To IMVRA, From

Wishing Continued Success IMVRA, From Lisnagry, Dublin Rd., Limerick Email:munster4x4@gmail.com

Ballinlough, Kells, Co. Meath | Tel: 046 9243993

DISMANTLING MOST MAKES & MODELS

We will collect CARS | VANS | LORRIES | FORKLIFTS | TRACTORS | FARM & FACTORY EQUIPMENT & OTHER LOOSE SCRAP

www.munster4x4spares.ie

087 858 2993 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

T.D Caldwell & Sons Ltd CAR DISMANTLERS

OPENING HOURS

Mon-Thurs 9.00 to 5.30 | Friday 9.00 to 5.00 | Saturday 9.00 to 1.00

Contact GARY on 086 6055531 93

Best Wishes To IMVRA From All At

Wishing Continued Success To IMVRA

Continued Best Wishes To IMVRA From

CAVAN CAR PARTS

Crimlin, Carrickaboy, Co. Cavan T: 049 4365405 087-9896847 086-3266154 Email: cavancarparts@eircom.net

www.bsparts.com

CAR DISMANTLERS Clonpriest, Youghal,Co. Cork E:wandkswayne@hotmail.com

Continued Best Wishes To IMVRA From

MARTIN CAHILL LTD AUTO RECYCLER & DISMANTLER

SECOND HAND AND NEW PARTS FOR CARS AND LIGHT COMMERCIALS Bolies, Duleek, Co. Meath T: 041 982 3587 | 041 982 3720 F: 041 988 0299 M: 087 7611080

Clonpriest Dismantlers Tel/Fax: 024 98296 M: 087 758 5249 M: 087 688 3691

Continued Best Wishes To IMVRA From

SUPPLIERS OF

Best Wishes To IMVRA From

Dept of Environment ELV certs issued WFP-CN-11-0004-01 DISMANTLING | CARS & LIGHT COMMERCIALS Crossrule, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan Telephone: 049 8544444 • Fax: 049 8544311 M: 087 2516336 or 086 2581560 E: jason@martincahill.ie www.martincahill.ie

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 94

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

websites www.imvra.ie and www.sparepart.ie which are the best sourced for second-hand part inquiries.

The IMVRA’s pathfinder allows customers to ask members whether they have the part they are looking for. The Association is also working to ensure that its members have fair access to ELVs and don’t face unfair competition from the non-permitted sector.

The IMVRA has engaged an expert environmental consultancy (Cuthbert Environmental), an expert in health and safety and an expert in HR that provide services at a discounted rate. A group insurance scheme will also be made available in the near future.

By buying a part through to the IMVRA network, customers are guaranteed a

certified “green” part from an Irish business. The IMVRA is committed to supporting the environment and Irish jobs.

The IMVRA was founded 16 years ago

by Cork man John Murphy, Gerry O’Connor from Dublin, Pascal Power from Waterford and the late Liam Fenton from Limerick. Gerry O’Connor, who owns OCM Ltd in Tallaght, is the current chairman, Joe Ganly from Mullingar is treasurer/secretary, while John Murphy is the IMVRA’s EGARA representative.

Founded in 1991, EGARA is the European umbrella association for the national associations of automotive recyclers in Europe. Its mission is to facilitate and develop the economic activities of European Automotive

Recyclers, to stimulate the development of environmentally justified working methods and to stimulate product and material reuse. EGARA members consist of national associations in 16 countries throughout Europe, including the IMVRA.

CONTACT DETAILS Irish Motor Vehicle Recyclers’ Association (IMVRA) 14 Allendale Avenue, Melbourn, Bishopstown, Co. Cork.

Phone: 021 4346072 Email: info@imvra.ie

BONAGEE, LETTERKENNY

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

95

Temple Auto Salvage is a fully licenced end of life disposal centre

One man’s scrap is another man’s gold The legislation regards the disposal of vehicles has changed dramatically in recent years and there is plenty of 'red tape' to be adhered too and only a certain number of companies have the necessary permits to do so.

O

An array of engines ready for disposal

96

ne of these is Lisburn based Temple Auto Salvage, which has been providing a top quality service to a large customer base for over forty years now. The company was initially established in 1970

by Hector Neill, who is still very much involved in the day to day running of the business.

However, his sons Alan and Philip are leading the business into current times and the former speaks to Irish Trucker about the success of the business and the service provided.

Temple Auto Salvage specialises in vehicle dismantling and are an approved ELV (end of life) centre. Other services include buying and selling damaged cars, vehicle recovery service; dismantling all types of modern vehicles and covered storage for car insurance purposes.

Temple Auto Salvage carry up to 500 vehicles for recycling at all times, all modern car makes and models are held in stock and we should be able to help with most IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Temple Auto Salvage is one of Northern Ireland’s leading car salvage dealers

Best Wishes To Temple Auto Salvage, From

part requests. Below are just a and vehicles for dismantling. few of the vehicles we are Keeping pace with the breaking at the moment. If you changes in our industry Temple require any parts for these Auto Salvage is now a fully vehicles contact us now as they licensed ELV centre. “We are are in high demand. one of only a few licensed “We are one of Northern authorised treatment facilities Ireland's leading car salvage currently in operation in dealer's, located near Lisburn, Northern Ireland. A lot of our Northern Ireland. It was work would be carried out established over 40n years ago throughout Northern Ireland as by my Hector Neill and is still a well as down south, while we family run business today. We would do a fair bit in England handle all types of motor and mainland Europe.” salvage, and can deliver Alan revealed that 100% of the vehicles, salvaged engines and vehicles brought in for used car parts throughout the scrappage are recycled. “We UK and Ireland,” said Alan. have six recovery trucks on the “The face of the industry has road and they would be busy changed a lot over the years bringing vehicles back to the and there is a lot of legislation premises, where they are put involved these days, which we through the process of feel is a good thing. However, dismantling. We are busy not everyone is adhering to it enough at the moment, but and it's certainly not a level wouldn't mind being busier, playing field when these rogue although the economic climate operators can undercut the likes is dictating the growth of the of us and they seem to be company at the moment, but getting away with it. hopefully it will pick up soon.”

“As the company has gone from strength to strength and the CONTACT DETAILS workforce has expanded, we have 11a Knockany Road added dismantling of Bailiesmills cars and commercial Lisburn vehicles to the range BT27 6YB Specialists in BMW Servicing of services provided Tel: 028 9263 8359 both to the industry BMW Breakers Yard Fax: 028 9263 9803 and to the general BMW Parts for Sale public. We are also E-mail: BMW Motorsport Preparation contracted to several info@templeautosalvage.com major insurance 59a Ballylone Road, Ballynahinch BT24 8XX Vehicle Parts: companies for Tel: 028-97561240. christine@templeautosalvage.com E: info@railwayautospares.com disposal of auto Vehicle Sales: www.railwayautospares.com salvage including julie@templeautosalvage.com Best wishes to Temple Auto Salvage in the future damaged repairables

RAILWAY Auto Spares

• • • •

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

97

Driving through the recession Many may wonder as to why people would set up a business in the last three years as the current economic recession has the nation in a vice tight grip, but there has been many new companies incorporated into society.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

economic climate.

“We offer a comprehensive service for all customers throughout Ireland who are looking for a National or International Haulage Service. We are a dynamic forward thinking company with a personalized hands-on approach,” said Kevin, who we speak to first.

“We aim to deliver a high quality service at all times and we welcome feedback from customers on how we can improve our service. Our staff are here to provide a 24/7 service to ensure that your goods get delivered on time, every time.”

GIC cover all major routes within Ireland, into, and out of Ireland, the United Kingdom and throughout Europe. They can provide scheduled transport services collecting and delivering both ambient and refrigerated goods.

Kevin added: “We would specialise mainly on container and refrigerated work and two of our biggest customers are LIDL and Dairygold. We would have been involved with them before the company started and they have continued to give us some business.

“It is important to supply a top quality service and we feel that we can do that and once the customers are happy that is the main thing. In this industry every decision has to be made with the utmost caution.”

Glantrans is very much a family run business as Kevin's wife Marion, daughter Claire and son Brian, while Richard's son Joseph and daughter are all involved in the day to day running of the business.

“This is very much a family run business and our children are the future of the business. They are all learning the trade and we have full trust in them to take over when the time comes.”

Glantrans operates a fleet of eight trucks directly, while there are a further six subcontractors working for them also.

DAF is the main choice of truck for Kevin and Richard, which they feel is the most reliable, while Stephen O'Connor looks after the maintenance. All trailers are hired in cuts down on the maintenance for these as Kevin admits it is a struggle to keep the overheads down.

“By doing our own maintenance, we seem to have a lot less downtime. The overheads are huge in this industry, especially in the last few years when the rising cost of fuel and falling rates have really hammered hauliers.

“The fuel situation has reached crisis point, but the Government don't seem to be willing to do anything about it.

The Glantrans fleet sets off on more runs

O

ne such company is Glantrans International Carriers, which was established two and a half years ago, but when you hear about the experience that the managing directors Kevin O'Callaghan and Richard Cashman bring to the table, then it is easy to understand why this family run business has been making huge strides over the past 30 months.

With 30 years' experience, Glantrans International Carriers (GIC) specialises in national and international haulage and is at the cutting edge of its industry. The company provides a competitive haulage service to destinations throughout Ireland, Europe and the UK and is in an ideal location to service the entire country.

For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we speak to Kevin and Richard about the success of the company, which is based in Glanworth, Co Cork and they enlighten us on the difficulties or running a haulage business in the current IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The fleet is kept in pristine condition

99

The company specialises in national and international work

Richard feels that management accountants like himself have a big role to play in the future of the economy.

“Management accountants have certainly a massive part in the future success of any business, because one wrong decision could prove detrimental. In fairness, there has been some growth in the business over the last 18 months, and we hope to continue that trend for the foreseeable future.

“We have a strong bond with our customer base and we must ensure to provide them with the service that they have become accustomed too over the last few years and we thank them for that. We would also like to thank Stacey and Connor Holly for supplying excellent photographs.”

CONTACT DETAILS Glantrans International Carriers, Unit 7a, 1 Ard An Bothar, Watergrasshill Business Park Glanworth, Co Cork.

Refrigerated work is a specialised area for Grantrans

IRHA President Eoin Gavin is doing his best and has met with Ministers on numerous occasions, but it just seems as if he's banging his head against a brick wall. Something needs to be done about the situation and it needs to be done sooner rather than later.”

From their premises in Watergrasshill Park, Kevin and Richard know that this is a precarious time in the economy and Richard revealed that when new business comes through the door, it is met with an air of caution.

“We would carry out background checks on all companies seeking us to do work for them. This is a formality for all businesses at the moment as we have to be very conscious of the cash flow and margins have to be correct. This is a very competitive environment to be involved in as the haulage industry is connected to every sector.”

Mob: 086 8192540 Tel: 025 46937 E-mail: info@gic.ie

At Matthews Transport we provide a service tailored to the individual needs of our customers throughout Ireland.

SERVICES AVAILABLE Nationwide next day delivery service Ambient Chilled & Frozen Distribution Best Wishes To Glantrans Groupage International Carriers Temperature controlled deliveries Ambient Chilled & Frozen Storage facilities We are available 24/7 www.matthewstransport.ie

Wilkinstown, Navan, Co.Meath T: 046 9055995 F: 046 9055909 E: info@matthewstransport.ie

Glantrans has its headquarters in Glanworth, Co. Cork

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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CLARKE'S TYRES & BATTERY CENTRE Knockanrawley Business Park, Tipperary Town. Tel. 062-31108

24 Hour Breakdown Service contact SEAMUS Mobile 086-8383909 at any time

TYRES FOR CARS, VANS, JEEPS, TRUCKS, TRACTORS, DIGGERS, EARTH MOVERS, MOTORBIKES ETC. - PUNCTURES - ALLOYS AND ALLOY REPAIR - NCT PREPARATION

- BATTERIES FOR ALL VEHICLES - 3D 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT - FULL SERVICE

We are fully insured and qualified and are members of the Irish Tyre Industry Association.

CONTINUED BEST WISHES TO AIDAN DOHERTY TRANSPORT CONTINUED SUCCESS TO AIDAN DOHERTY TRANSPORT, FROM

19 St Michael Street Tipperary Town

(+353) 086 8503611 • (+353) 042 9376213

TRAILER SALES & RENTAL

Tel: 062 52551 Fax: 062 33234 Email: martin@mjmchugh.com

Martin J McHugh & Co CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS REGISTERED AUDITORS BEST WISHES TO AIDAN DOHERTY TRANSPORT

Best Wishes To Aidan Doherty Transport, From

TIPPERARY AUTO CARE LTD

McCarthy Commercials Ltd Dealer for Volvo Trucks STOCKISTS OF VOLVO TRUCK/BUS PARTS & TRAILER COMPONENTS

VOLVO TRUCKS

GENERAL MOTOR FACTORS

COMPLETE RANGE OF CAR SPARE PARTS, ACCESSORIES & TOOLS

WATERGRASSHILL, CO. CORK (021) 4889700

O’Brien St., Tipperary T: (062) 51689 • F: (062) 33272

Website: www.mccarthycomms.ie Ring Road, Kilkenny • Tel: (056) 7734200 Clonlara, Co. Clare • Tel: (061) 356360

Best Wishes To Aidan Doherty Transport

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 102

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

One cool customer Established as an owner-driver company in 1996, Aidan Doherty Transport Ltd has been specialising in refrigerated transport for over a decade.

B

ased in Tipperary town, which is within easy reach of the cities of Limerick, Cork and Waterford, the company is run by husband-and-wife Aidan and Breda Doherty who have accumulated a wealth of experience in the transport industry. Breda recently took time out from her busy schedule to give us an insight into Aidan Doherty Transport.

“We originally transported dry goods before deciding to concentrate exclusively on refrigerated transport about 10 years ago,” she explains.

“It was a big decision which thankfully has paid off. We offer cold storage for nationwide distribution. We are a leading name within the business and have very good customers who have given us great support over the years.”

Aidan Doherty Transport’s reputation for reliability, value-for-money and excellence has seen its customer-base expand to include retail giants Lidl and Aldi as well as Commercial Mushroom Products in Monaghan. The company’s state-of-the-art facilities and modern fleet enables it to meet a wide range of customer needs.

“We have an excellent working relationship with our customers. We are proud to be associated with both Lidl and Aldi, who are now recognised as two of the biggest retailers in the country. We transport chilled, frozen and ambient products from Lidl’s Distribution Centre’s in Charleville, Co. Cork and Mullingar, Co. Westmeath to their stores around the country. And the same goes for Aldi whose main Distribution Centre is in Naas, Co. Kildare.”

Aidan Doherty Transport boasts a modern fleet of high-specification temperature controlled vehicles which provide the necessary conditions to ensure the safe arrival of even the most IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

sensitive of cargoes. The company, whose fleet colour is blue and white, has invested heavily over the years in its trucks and trailers as Breda explains: “We have a fleet of 12 tractor units and 12 trailers which are immaculately kept and maintained to the highest standards. All our vehicles are equipped with air suspension, ensuring best load care and driver comfort. Our trucks are mainly DAF, although we do have a couple of Ivecos and one Volvo.

In addition, our trucks and trailers are cleaned inside and out before every consignment collection.

“While we are large enough to provide a professional service, we are also small enough to adapt to the specific needs of your logistical requirements.

We are dedicated to providing a truly professional service to all of our customers.”

The company’s trailers comprise articulated curtainsiders, low-loaders and temperature controlled units. The latter’s internal loading length and loading width is 13.6 metres and 2.5 metres respectively. Maximum payload weight is up to 24 tonnes.

Of the 21 staff employed by Aidan Doherty Transport, 15 are drivers. The company has its own in-house mechanic, who carries out all repairs and maintenance work on its DAF fleet, and also offers a carwash service to the general public. Volvo repairs are referred to McCarthy Commercials in Watergrasshill, Co. Cork, while D Dennehy Ltd in Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork caters for Aidan Doherty’s Iveco repairs.

“We have been dealing with Dennehy Trucks and McCarthy Commercials for many years and have always found them to be extremely courteous and helpful. The fact that our own mechanic

knows DAF inside-out means that we don’t have to send our DAF trucks elsewhere for repairs and helps to keep our costs down.”

While Aidan Doherty Transport hasn’t been immune from the recession or rising fuel costs, Breda is happy to report that the company is coping well in the circumstances.

“Business is good, thank God. We can’t complain. When you have good customers like we have, you are always sure of your money. Our aim is to look after their needs at all times and to ensure that we are doing everything the way they want it done,” she says.

“The cost of diesel is a huge issue for all transport companies, but we are lucky in the sense that we have a surcharge arrangement in place with Lidl and Aldi which eases the burden somewhat.”

In conclusion, Breda pays to tribute to the staff who have contributed to the company’s growth and success over the past 16 years.

“I have to say we have some brilliant people working for us. Every one of them has played their part in getting us to where we are today. This business is all about giving a good service and keeping your customers happy, and our staff go out of their way to ensure those requirements are met.”

CONTACT DETAILS Aidan Doherty Transport Ltd Rathsasseragh, Tipperary town, Co. Tipperary.

Telephone: 062 52297 Fax: 062 82883 Mobile: 087 2718725

103

Parts of the service Providing a top quality service to a large customer is not something that just happens over night as it takes many years to develop an understanding of the customers' needs and delivering the right service to them.

T

o this end, there is none better equipped that Tradecounter Holdings, who are the leaders in their field of expertise as they have been supplying their customers with top of the range products for almost 30 years.

The origins of the business began in 1984 when managing

Tradecounter now sells products in North

America,

South

America,

Australia, Asia and Europe. The company's product line has always been focused on the Commercial Vehicle Industry, with its greater experience, semi - trailer related.

When it comes to trailers and

commercial vehicles the staff has a wealth of experience and expertise that you can reply on.

“Here at Tradecounter Holdings, we have a reputation for reliability, competitively priced products and excellent service,” said Eamon.

“We have the largest range of trailer parts and truck spares

director Eamon Moran

Ireland can offer from

made

company

leading brands as well as

limited. Since then, they

our brands. About 95% of

have

their

our business would in

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they

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the

increased

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as

make

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supply truck and trailer

Trade Counter Holdings

parts all over the world. the

have extended their client

Sandymount

Industrial

portfolio to the far corners

Estate,

company

of the earth and their

provides a wide array of

exports make up the

parts

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in the from

the

top

the

brands.

Eamon formed a trailer

Tradecounter have a huge stock available

current

economic

climate.

building

company

in

“We have developed a

Dublin

known

as

large customer base over

Emerald

Trailers

Ltd

the years, many of who

trading as York Ireland.

have remained with us. In

This company developed

this industry, it is essential

a service and spares

to maintain the level of

division

as

customers that we have

Emerald Trailers Sales

acquired and ensure that

Services

and

they are happy with the

subsequently renamed

service that we provide.”

Trade Counter Holdings are experts in axles and they manufacture many of their own parts, so that the customer can be guaranteed a quality

known

Tradecounter Holdings limited in 2011.

Over the years, strong commercial relationships have been formed with customers and suppliers.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

product at a reasonable price.

Having started the business in the eighties at the height of the last recession, Eamon is well placed to compare the two economies.

“The main difference between the two recessions is that now the banks are bust, whereas in the eighties they weren't.

The country is now far more advanced infrastructure wise and it has completed changed, so it is hard to compare the two periods, but I certainly feel that any business that went through such a time is well equipped to deal with the current problems.

“It is actually remarkable how businesses have held up in the current economic climate and they deserve great credit for doing so as everyone's turnover has been hit hard.

“The domestic market is not near as strong as it use to be and we are looking to expand our exports, which we have been doing for the past number of years.

“It is going to be a hard road ahead for all businesses and we will be no different. We have to continue working hard and ensuring that the customer

CONTACT DETAILS Trade Counter Holdings 64A Heather Road Sandyford Industrial Estate Dublin 18 Ireland Tel: 353 1 2052816/7/8/9 Fax: 353 1 2052823/42 Email: claire@tradecounter.ie

Continued Best Wishes To Trade Counter Holdings From

CATEGORIES OF WORK Corporate | Commercial IT and Telecoms | Construction EU Competition | Private Client Dispute Resolution | Real Estate Employment | Insurance 69 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2 T: + 353 (0)1 4395600 F: + 353 (0)1 4395601/2 E: info@kilroys.ie www.kilroys.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

get what they want, when they want it.”

Trade Counter Holdings offer a same day deliver service in their locality, using five of their own vehicles to deliver parts, while in the U.K, they use an efficient courier service to ensure that packages get to their customers on time.

“We would stock thousands of parts here and anything that is not can be shipped in very quickly, so customers don't have too wait too long for their deliveries.”

In these testing times, Eamon could be forgiven for focusing on holding on to his current customers and although that is high on the list of priorities; expansion is not out of the question either.

“We would be looking to expand our stock within the main fleets and increase our customer base. In this industry, you cannot afford to rest on your laurels and that is something that we certainly won't be doing. There is a lot of work to be done in order to get this country back on its feet again, but I do think that we will get there.”

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Team spirit

A great team spirit permeates every nook and cranny of Thomas Crilly Transport, a company which finds itself at its optimum size some six years after its inception.

Irish Trucker visited the Camlough base and had a chat with founder / proprietor Thomas Crilly.

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At the Mourne Truck Run, l/r: Noel Watters, Jody Crilly and Tom Crilly

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family-run transport company based in Camlough, County Armagh, Thomas Crilly Transport was established in 2006 and has since gone from strength to strength.

From humble beginnings, the company has grown steadily over the past six years, today operating a fleet of five vehicles, mainly delivering bread to retailers nationwide on behalf of Irwin’s Bakery.

For eponymous founder Thomas Crilly, the business is very much a labour of love. A true trucker in every sense of IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

the word, Thomas has always had a deep love of trucks and haulage. Even when he was working in a completely different sector, Thomas always felt the lure of lorries and the genesis of Thomas Crilly Transport was almost inevitable.

Reflecting on how the company came about, the man himself notes: “I was a civil servant working with the Department of Agriculture as an animal health and welfare inspector. But I was always more interested in the lorries than the cattle.

“So I got my licence and did a bit of part-time work before buying my first lorry – an 85 CF DAF – in 2006. I suppose I was hooked at that stage. Irwin’s Bakery was my main customer at the time and still is today.”

At present, Thomas oversees a mixed bag of artics comprising two Renaults, a DAF, a Scania and a Volvo. When it comes to replacing a vehicle or bringing in a new one, the Camlough man has a very simple rule of thumb that will be familiar to his peers: “I will opt for whatever represents best value for money at the time. That policy is serving me well and every lorry in the fleet is performing well at the moment. We keep them in good nick and a local mechanic – David Lowry Truck Repairs - in Newry looks after all the servicing and maintenance etc. for me.”

Regarding the type of work done, Thomas continues: “We deliver bread nationwide for Irwin’s Bakery. We also try to double-shift the lorries as much as possible to avoid empty runs, doing some work for European Containers and Loane Transport in Kesh, working out of Warrenpoint. The reality of the way things are is that you have to get as much out of each lorry as possible.”

A hands-on owner who gets behind the wheel himself on a daily basis, Thomas also provides gainful employment to six other drivers. The work is now restricted to within the island of Ireland. “I used to go to the UK on traction jobs but I stopped that as it doesn’t pay. There’s no point taking on work just for the sake of it.”

Irwin’s Bakery is Northern Ireland’s largest independent bakery, producing a wide range of products that are sold under different brands including Irwin’s, Rankin Selection, Nutty Krust and Howell Handmade. The main bakery hub is located in Portadown and Thomas Crilly Transport has a yard rented nearby.

Needless to say, in this particular line of work, the hours are what one might term unsocial: “You start at midnight,” Thomas notes. “The driver loads the trailers and will typically start deliveries at around 2am, finishing up at around 7am or 8am, which leaves the lorry free for the rest of the day.”

Irwin’s Bakery celebrated 100 years in business this April

Wishing Thomas Crilly & Family Every Success In The Future

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and they had Prince Charles and his wife Camilla as visitors as part of that celebration. As long as the bakery is going well, then Thomas is happy: “We’re doing okay. Some days are busier than others. The bread is very steady and the container work is also steady but the traction work is up and down.”

It’s a tough climate, with pressure on hauliers like never before: “Diesel and insurance costs are very high and it’s difficult to keep absorbing these increases. Margins are being squeezed all the time by things that are outside my control. All we can do is get on with it and hope that the economic situation improves.

“I was up to nine lorries at one stage but had to cut the fleet back to five because you have to keep your overheads down and there’s no choice only to run a very lean business. That’s

where we are at the moment.”

As for the future: “We have no specific plans to do anything new but at the same time all our options are o p e n .

Depending on the job and the rate, I would certainly be open to suggestions. The plan is pretty simple – to survive!

“I’m reasonably confident that we can keep ticking over. Unless something disastrous happens, we have all our bases covered.”

Thomas Crilly Transport provides an

excellent service every day, seven days per week. “We work 364 days of the year. The only day off we have is Christmas. We’ve had our ups and downs but in general the business has gone well and we provide the best service we can.

“It’s all about service at the end of the day. If you get your customer’s products delivered promptly and safely, then they will be happy. Twenty minutes means a lot in the bakery industry so you have to make sure the deliver arrives on time every time. To be fair, I have a great team around me and they all give 100%. They’re a good team of lads. It took a few years to get them but we’re happy now. Small is beautiful.

“The same applies to the business in general. It took a while to get here but it’s all clicked into place now and we’re in a strong position. We had to take control of our costs and my mechanic also provides an excellent service.

We’re all in this together and we’re looking forward to continued success.”

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Thomas Crilly Transport From All At

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