The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) is urging government to reduce input costs for the haulage industry, before considering increasing excise duty on fuels.

The IRHA says that every additional cost placed on Ireland’s haulage sector has consequences that reach far beyond the transport industry.

“Higher fuel costs, increased tolls, rising insurance premiums, growing compliance requirements and additional port charges all contribute to the cost of moving goods across the country,” IRHA President, Ger Hyland said.

He added: “Ultimately, those costs don’t disappear. They work their way through the supply chain and onto the shelves, impacting businesses and consumers alike.”

“We are calling on government to recognise the cumulative pressure facing hauliers before considering any further increases in fuel taxation.”

“At the same time, we believe government should reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens and provide meaningful support to help operators transition to lower-carbon fuels such as HVO.”