asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport the action, if any, his Department take to ensure that those engaged in haulage work are holders of the required merchandising licence plates; and if he will investigate complaints that certain companies are engaging hauliers who are not in possession of the required licence plates.
Written Answers - Haulage Licences.
106.
With the exception of certain exempted areas and commodities, persons engaged in the carriage of goods for reward in vehicles over 2.5 metric tons unladen weight are required, in accordance with road transport legislation, to hold a merchandise licence and to plate all vehicles involved in the business. The legislation also provides that it is unlawful for any person to employ an unlicensed haulier. The penalties for infringements of the legislation were significantly increased in the Road Transport Act, 1986. Enforcement of the legislation is carried out by the gardaí and a team of transport officers employed by my Department.
The complaints against the companies concerned will be fully investigated.