Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting Ireland’s road haulage industry, acknowledging the severe pressure operators have faced from rising fuel costs during 2026.
Speaking at the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) Annual Conference, Minister O’Brien described the haulage sector as the “backbone of Ireland’s supply chain” and a critical contributor to economic growth.
A major focus of his address was the Government’s response to increased fuel costs. O’Brien confirmed that the reduction in fuel excise rates has been extended, while the enhanced rebate available through the Diesel Rebate Scheme will remain in place until the end of 2026. Reductions to the NORA levy have also been extended.
The Minister also provided an update on the €120 million Road Transporters Support Scheme (RTSS). More than 4,400 applications were received, with approximately 2,700 applicants already receiving payments.
Since payments began on 10 July, more than €45 million has been paid directly to operators, with a further €7 million being processed. Another €6.9 million has been transferred to the Department of Education and Youth for payments to school transport providers.
O’Brien acknowledged frustration over delays in processing applications, noting that more than 20 per cent contained errors. Around 1,100 applicants were contacted during August to correct information, while an appeals process will shortly be introduced for operators dissatisfied with their assessment.
Importantly, the Minister acknowledged that the €120 million scheme alone will not resolve the challenges facing the industry.
With Budget negotiations progressing, O’Brien said he would continue highlighting the concerns raised by hauliers, including the need for ongoing Government support for alternative fuels such as HVO.
He also pledged to keep developments in global energy markets under review, saying the Government remained ready to respond if circumstances required further intervention.
Looking further ahead, the Department of Transport will publish a Midpoint Review of the National Road Haulage Strategy 2022–2031 in 2027. A public consultation will precede the review, with sustainability, decarbonisation, competitiveness, road safety and recruitment among the key areas to be examined.
O’Brien concluded by praising the resilience of Irish hauliers and the IRHA’s engagement with Government, while committing his Department to continued dialogue with the sector.
