40 years of IRHA celebrated
The Clonee-based Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) celebrated its 40th anniversary AGM and conference at the weekend in the Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork where a significant trade show from the leading vehicle manufacturers was also on display.
The support from members, patrons, corporate partners and vehicle manufacturers at the event was quite overwhelming and really demonstrated how the IRHA has grown from strength to strength since its inception in 1973. Both members and third party supporters expressed their gratitude for the effective representation over the period with a particular acknowledgement for the success on the Essential User Fuel Rebate (EUR) which the IRHA achieved for the hire and reward sector of transport.
Minister Leo Varadkar was the guest speaker at the gala dinner event on Saturday evening where the Minister expressed his unwavering support for the IRHA and its members to continuously improve conditions within the industry by way of introduction of the EUR, a recent increase in six axle vehicle weights and an overhaul of commercial vehicle road tax.
Minister Varadkar viewed the wide array of tractor units and trailers which were on display and took the opportunity to sit into the cab of a vehicle which was built by the Minister’s grandfather in the late 1970s. It was a step back in time for the Minister and a moment which he appeared to very much enjoy.
President of the IRHA, which is based in Bracetown Business Park, Eoin Gavin said: “This year’s 40th anniversary AGM and conference was very successful and yet again highlighted the critical role the licensed road haulage industry plays in Ireland. The Association is very appreciative of the support by the wide range of industry suppliers over the weekend. In particular a sincere word of thanks to Minister Varadkar for his continued support of our industry, the Minister provided a very generous allocation of his time and it was greatly appreciated by all in the IRHA”.