The countdown is on to the Irish Road Haulage Association’s Annual Conference and Dinner, which takes place at the Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney next weekend, Friday and Saturday, 4–5 September.

One of the most important events in the Irish road transport calendar, the two-day conference will bring together hauliers, transport operators, policymakers, suppliers and other industry stakeholders from across the country.

This year’s gathering comes at a critical time for the haulage sector, with operators continuing to face high fuel prices, rising business costs, regulatory pressures, driver shortages and concerns about the future competitiveness of Irish road transport.

Minister for Climate, Environment, Energy and Transport Darragh O’Brien TD will address delegates at the conference gala dinner on Saturday evening. Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney TD is also due to attend.

The political line-up will also include Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae, who will address delegates on Friday evening, while MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú is scheduled to speak on Saturday afternoon. Carol Nolan TD and Seán Kelly MEP are also expected to attend.

IRHA President Ger Hyland is expected to use the conference to reinforce the association’s call for continued Government support for licensed road haulage operators. The future of fuel supports and the impact of escalating operating costs are likely to feature prominently throughout the weekend.

Alongside the conference programme, visitors will be able to view an impressive selection of modern trucks, trailers and transport technology. A special vintage truck display will also celebrate Ireland’s proud road haulage heritage.

The IRHA Annual Conference and Dinner provides members with an important opportunity to meet industry colleagues, engage directly with policymakers and discuss the challenges shaping the future of the sector.

All roads lead to Killarney next weekend for what promises to be a significant gathering for Ireland’s road transport industry.