Upcoming road toll hikes 'catastrophic' for hauliers, group warns
Licensed Is In €20,000 Of Hyland says Average An Month President Are Paying Tolls, Unsustainable Hauliers Irha Ger Which Per Currently
The Irish Road Haulage Association has hit out at recently announced toll hikes due to take effect in the new year, calling the move "hugely detrimental to Ireland's most essential industry."
In October, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) in October that some toll rates for motorways and the Dublin Port Tunnel would increase from 2025. This marks the third toll in just 18 months, the IRHA said, with President Ger Hyland calling the price hikes "catastrophic."
"Hauliers are the backbone of the economy, working 24/7, 365 days a year, to ensure goods reach their destinations. Without us, there would be no exports or imports. Yet, we are being held hostage by the Government with these relentless charges," said Mr Hyland.
Licensed hauliers are currently paying an average of €20,000 per month in tolls, which Mr Hyland says is unsustainable.
"The M50 motorway has been long since paid for, and it is high time the Government introduced toll exemptions for licensed hauliers on this motorway at a minimum. A reduction in tolls across the board on all other routes as well for our industry is critical to ensure we can keep Ireland moving. If hauliers go out of business, the country's economy will grind to a halt," Hyland warned.
The IRHA has highlighted the raft of additional cost increases set to hit the sector in the new year, which include the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT) rising by 15% from Janaury, compounding previous increases in fees for drivers' licenses, learner permits, and other essential certifications.
The association is warning of severe consequences if the sector's viability continues to be undermined, and has called out Government inaction for its response to the Holyhead port delays and the Dublin Airport Passenger cap.
"The Government’s actions are unforgivable. They are piling pressure on an industry already stretched to its limits. If they cannot manage their own crises, they should at least avoid creating new ones for those of us who keep this country running," Hyland concluded.
The IRHA is calling for an immediate reversal of the toll increases and a freeze on upcoming fee hikes, along with a commitment to consult with the road haulage industry before introducing future measures.