The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) had called for of island nations at the ATTO International Conference in Malta.
On 18th February, the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) participated in the ATTO International Conference, “Europe’s Island Link: Advocating Malta’s Role in the EU’s Transport Strategy,” held in Malta on 18 February
Addressing policymakers, MEPs and industry leaders, IRHA President Ger Hyland outlined the unique logistical and regulatory challenges faced by Ireland as a fully-fledged Island Member State in the post-Brexit era.
Mr Hyland highlighted how Brexit fundamentally reshaped Ireland’s supply chains. While Ireland previously relied heavily on the UK land-bridge, the sector has undergone a seismic shift towards direct sailings to mainland Europe, with a dramatic increase in unaccompanied trailer traffic.
“This transformation has aligned Ireland’s reality with that of Malta and Cyprus,” Mr Hyland said. “Yet EU transport policy has not fully adapted to the geographical and operational realities of island nations.”
He stressed that legislation developed for a continental landmass often fails to account for the additional maritime leg that Irish, Maltese and Cypriot operators must undertake before even reaching the European road network. Issues surrounding cabotage, posting rules, driving and rest time and the Combined Transport Directive were cited as examples where island operators face disproportionate administrative and cost burdens.
Mr Hyland reaffirmed the IRHA’s commitment to working constructively with EU institutions and fellow island partners through the Island Nations Advocacy Group (INAG) to secure targeted solutions, including fair treatment under the Combined Transport framework, sensible flexibility on driving time when accessing ports and pragmatic reforms to technical files such as the Roadworthiness Directive and CPC training requirements.
Concluding his address, Mr Hyland delivered a clear message of determination.“At times, advocating for island operators can feel like David standing before Goliath — a small voice against a vast legislative machine. But history reminds us that size does not determine strength. What matters is conviction, unity and the justice of the cause. Island nations may be few in number, but we are essential to Europe’s connectivity — and we will continue to make our case until fairness prevails.”
The IRHA welcomed the strong engagement of Maltese stakeholders and Members of the European Parliament at the conference and looks forward to deepening cooperation between Ireland, Malta and Cyprus to ensure that Europe’s transport strategy properly reflects the needs of its island economies.
