According to the latest Travel Survey for Northern Ireland (TSNI), each person in the country travels more than 5,800 miles per annum on the nation’s roads, equating to around 16 miles travelled per person per day.
With 25% more cars and vans registered in Northern Ireland compared with a decade ago, road safety and accident prevention are key considerations for drivers – and none more so than those in the freight and logistics sector. 
Safety will be a priority for those attending the Freight Transport Association’s Transport Manager Northern Ireland Conference sponsored by Brigade Electronics, Goodyear and Iveco, which will take place at the Culloden Hotel, Cultra, on Wednesday 15 March.   The one-day event will provide attendees with information and advice about keeping the country’s roads safe, while ensuring that Northern Ireland’s freight and logistics needs can be met efficiently and effectively.

James Firth, FTA’s Head of Licensing Policy and Compliance Information, said: “Organisations and transport managers in the freight and logistics sector are coming under increasing pressure to ensure proper safety systems are in place to protect their employees and other road users.  The Conference will provide an invaluable opportunity for those working in freight and logistics to learn about the latest good practice advice, from enforcement agencies, licensing authorities and other key organisations from across the freight sector.  For those working in logistics, this is a day not to be missed.”

Among the speakers confirmed for the event are:
John McGrane, Director General of The British Irish Chamber of Commerce, who will give the keynote speech on practical ways in which both Irish and UK firms can prepare now for Brexit
Jeremy Logan, Head of Roadside Enforcement, Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA), outlining the DVA’s enforcement priorities; and Pat Delaney, DVA’s Director of Operations, on how to ensure compliance with the latest legislation on commercial vehicle testing.
Inspector Rosie Leech of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), offering details of the Service’s latest findings on driver and vehicle safety, including insecure loads, the use of mobile phones while driving and new alcohol limits.

“The day will be packed with information and discussion about a wide range of issues affecting drivers of vehicles of all sizes,” continued Firth, “ranging from common occurrences like fuel spills, problems with tyres, brake problems and lost loads, through to the knock-on effects of incidents when they occur.  Such a comprehensive programme of information, combined with the networking opportunities on offer, makes the Transport Manager event a must-visit for all those who are committed to keeping Northern Ireland’s roads – and business – safely moving.”

For further information or to book a place go to www.fta.co.uk/events or call FTA Member Services on 03717 11 22 22.

Freight Transport Association

About the Author: John Loughran