Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan and Monaghan, Brendan Smith has welcomed emergency support of €18m to alleviate pressure on hauliers.

Deputy Brendan Smith commented, “Hauliers are incredibly important to the functioning of our economy and keeping vital goods and services moving across the supply chain. This support will help address the current cost pressures arising from current high fuel prices, particularly as a consequence of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

“From my own engagement with hauliers, I know that the sector continues to face particular challenges. Assisting businesses to remain viable and maintaining employment is particularly important for the overall economy,”

The Cavan and Monaghan TD added: “It has been a trying and difficult two years for the sector, in light of Covid-19, Brexit and now the conflict in Ukraine. Today’s support shows that the Government is conscious of the contribution the sector has made and continues to make.”

Government has agreed a targeted and temporary grant scheme that will provide a payment of €100 per week for every heavy goods vehicle (over 3.5 tonnes) as listed on a road haulage operator’s licence. The scheme will operate for a period of 8 weeks and will be reviewed thereafter. The estimated cost to the State for the temporary response to extraordinary circumstances is €18m.

Details on how to avail of the scheme will be communicated to hauliers in the coming days.

ENDS

11/03/2022