Business, Freight News, Logistics, Road

Irish industry needs support, says FTAI

[ April 16, 2020   //   Chris ]

FTA Ireland (FTAI) has called on the Irish government to provide additional financial support to logistics businesses during the Covid-19 outbreak, citing an Impact Survey which showed that 71% of logistics businesses have seen a drop in revenue since the start of the pandemic.

FTAI general manager Aidan Flynn, said: “FTAI’s Covid-19 Impact Survey shows the profound effect the pandemic is having on freight distribution and logistics in Ireland; we are urging government to act on the concerns of our members and provide additional financial support to aid supply chain resilience during the outbreak. While the logistics sector is vital in the fight against Covid-19 – it is responsible for keeping supermarket shelves stocked and ensuring essential PPE (personal protective equipment) is getting to the most vulnerable and deserving front line workers – overall demand for services is declining and all businesses across our industry are impacted.”

He continued: “While logistics businesses are capable of handling the Covid-19 challenge, the survey shows additional urgent government support is needed to strengthen the supply chain. FTAI and its members need government to implement a range of measures to ease the business situation for logistics organisations – by making the process of applying for government-backed loans more accessible; expanding the criteria for the salary subsidy to include a reduction in turnover of 20% instead of 25%; and developing a clear roadmap on how to get individuals back to work after the lockdown, as this will have an impact on the broader supply chain in the long term.”

He said that FTAI members also want to see an immediate provision of adequate PPE – including face masks, gloves and hand sanitiser – by government for all essential workers, including those in working in the haulage industry. It also urged government to implement a road toll payment holiday and a mechanism to refund motor tax for vehicles that are declared off road.

Tags: FTAI