The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has expressed its full support for the International Road Transport Union (IRU) in its campaign for stronger EU legislation to tackle late payments to road transport operators.
Late payments remain a serious problem for hauliers across Europe, placing additional financial pressure on an industry already struggling with rising fuel prices, toll increases and escalating operating costs.
The IRHA believes that urgent action is needed to protect transport operators, particularly small and family-run haulage businesses, which often have limited negotiating power when dealing with larger customers.
The IRHA fully endorses the IRU’s position and supports its calls for stronger, more consistent payment rules across the European Union.
The IRU’s key proposals include:
- A maximum payment period of 30 days, without exceptions.
- Automatic interest and compensation when payments are overdue.
- Stronger enforcement measures to ensure compliance with payment deadlines.
- Greater protection for hauliers who report unfair payment practices.
The IRHA believes that haulage operators should not be expected to finance their customers’ businesses through extended payment terms, particularly when they must meet their own fuel, wages, insurance, maintenance and other operating costs on time.
- Every key deadline: diesel rebate, fuel excise, carbon tax
- Tick-box checklist for tacho, CVRT, CPC & operator licence
- Where drivers get caught at RSA roadside checks
“At a time when profit margins are under severe pressure, prompt payment is essential to the financial stability and long-term viability of Ireland’s haulage industry,” IRHA President Ger Hylnd said.
He added: “The IRHA welcomes the IRU’s continued efforts to secure fairer payment practices across Europe and stands firmly behind its campaign for meaningful EU action.”
Hauliers provide an essential service, keeping goods moving and supply chains functioning. They deserve to be paid fairly and on time for the work they carry out.
