Fuel supports take center stage at Irish hauliers' annual conference

Fuel supports are at the heart of the Irish Road Haulage Association's annual conference, where thousands of hauliers and transport operators have gathered in Killarney, County Kerry.

The second day will focus on fuel costs, transport regulation, decarbonisation and the future of Ireland's supply chain. The industry says it is facing rising fuel prices, heavier regulatory pressures and growing concerns about its future competitiveness.

Senior government figures, policymakers and industry leaders are attending the conference. Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien and Minister of State Seán Canney are due to address delegates at the gala dinner. Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae opened the event at the Gleneagle Hotel, while MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú is scheduled to speak. Independent TD Carol Nolan and MEP Seán Kelly are also attending.

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watershed moment

The conference programme includes a large display of vintage trucks outside the hotel, along with manufacturers and suppliers showcasing heavy goods vehicles, trailers and transport technology. Organisers said it would be one of Ireland's largest public displays of commercial vehicles.

IRHA President Ger Hyland called the conference a "watershed moment" for transport. He said, "We believe now is not the time to withdraw fuel supports, and that message will be delivered directly to Government during our conference." Hyland warned that adding 30 cents back onto a litre of fuel could mean many haulage businesses would not survive until Christmas. He also said higher fuel prices would raise food and transport costs for households and intensify the cost-of-living crisis.

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We believe now is not the time to withdraw fuel supports, and that message will be delivered directly to Government during our conference.