An FTA Ireland delegation, together with representatives of the Freight Transport Association, have held a round table meeting with representatives from Michel Barnier’s Task Force 50 negotiation team in Brussels, to present the concerns of pan-European supply chains on the implications of Brexit, with a strong focus on the specific challenges for Ireland.

During the meeting, FTA Ireland highlighted to the representatives from the Task Force 50 that problems such as customs handling and access to the market for trucks are only part of the issue and that Ireland will need help and assistance to ensure that infrastructure such as ports will be robust enough to cope with the new rules on trade and customs.  In addition, FTAI highlighted that adequate funding must be made available for the industry to upskill the workforce, and ensure a capable workforce is available to deal with new trading conditions and regulatory requirements.  Members of the delegation highlighted the intricacies and complexity of their supply chains, further giving evidence that solutions will not come easy.

“Reality is beginning to bite for our members when it comes to Brexit,” said Aidan Flynn, General Manager of FTAI, “and we would encourage all within the supply chain to work together to develop industry wide solutions and prepare for change. FTAI’s Gold, Silver and Bronze accreditation standards will help businesses assess future challenges and be ready to cope with new trading conditions.”

To assist businesses as they prepare for Brexit, FTAI will be hosting a seminar on 20 November 2017 at Croke Park entitled “Brexit – the future implications for Ireland/UK trade.”  Speakers will include Aidan Gough from InterTradeIreland on the issues that will impact trade on the island of Ireland and Leigh Pomlett, Executive Director of Ceva Logistics, who will give a pragmatic overview of the implications of Brexit on his business. For more information on this event, which is sponsored by KPMG, AIB and Brigade with media partner Fleet Transport, please visit www.ftai.ie

Freight Transport Association Ireland

About the Author: John Loughran