Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2024
187. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport to comment on a health initiative concept for haulage drivers (details supplied) and advise on the best way to progress such a concept; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3868/24]
View answerThe provision of exercise equipment or wellbeing services at sites accessible to hauliers, e.g. rest areas, ports and company premises, is likely to require commercial arrangements with private company operators. As such, I would advise anyone looking to implement a specific health-related project to engage directly with the owners of these sites.
For its part, the Government is welcoming of any initiatives that help to improve health and wellbeing and recognises that the current HGV driver shortage is a multifaceted issue with a wide range of different contributing factors, including working conditions for drivers.
The Logistics and Supply Chain Skills Group (LSCSG) was established in 2019 to support the promotion of careers, skills development and sustainable employment in the logistics and supply chain sectors in Ireland. The Group includes relevant Government Departments, education and training providers and industry representatives. It is currently chaired by my Department.
As key priorities, the LSCSG seeks to increase the recruitment of HGV drivers and other logistics and supply chain workers and to promote safe and healthy working conditions in the sector. Further information on the work of the LSCSG, including links to its publications, can be found at www.gov.ie/lscsg.
In addition, Ireland’s Road Haulage Strategy 2022–2031, which was published in December 2022, sets out the Government’s strategy for the haulage and road freight sector over the next ten years. Implementation of the Strategy actions is progressing well, including several initiatives aimed at improving working conditions in the sector and the wellbeing of drivers. For example, in line with Action 20 of the Strategy and with Ireland’s EU obligations, the recently published Motorway Service Area Policy, which was developed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), includes commitments to introduce Safe and Secure Parking Areas (SSPAs) for HGV drivers along the core TEN-T Network. These SSPAs will provide high-quality facilities and for HGV drivers to safely rest and recuperate during their shifts, which will help to reduce driver fatigue and to promote overall driver wellbeing.
