The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has welcomed the publication of Government fuel supports, acknowledging the constructive engagement that has taken place between the association and Government over the past two months.

The IRHA said the supports represent an important step in recognising the pressures faced by hauliers, particularly in light of sustained fuel cost volatility and broader supply chain challenges.

The IRHA noted that the measures followed a prolonged period of engagement, during which the association’s management committee worked tirelessly to ensure the concerns of its members were clearly understood at Government level and that appropriate support was put in place.

President of the IRHA, Ger Hyland, said that while the fuel supports won’t save every haulage business, they will ease the burden of escalating fuel and other costs.

“We welcome the publication of these supports, which reflect a growing understanding of the challenges facing the road haulage sector. We made the decision to engage in robust negotiations with government and we think that this strategic decision has been the correct one for our industry.”

Hyland added: “These supports are the result of steady and ongoing engagement, where the experiences of hauliers across the country have been brought forward in a constructive way. We now feel there is a greater appreciation at government level for the importance of our industry.”

The association emphasised that while the measures are a positive development, continued dialogue will be essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the sector.

“We welcome the support but our cost base is still extraordinarily high. Higher tolls, port charges, new taxes, charges and government imposed levies along with escalating fuel prices have driven many hauliers out of business. We will continue our engagement with Government to ensure that the needs of the industry are addressed in a practical and sustainable manner.”

The IRHA reiterated the critical role played by the haulage sector in supporting Ireland’s economy and keeping the country moving.