Haulage Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017

Tuesday, 28 February 2017

Ceisteanna (766)

Robert Troy

Ceist:

766. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department is working on a plan to respond to the potential impact of UK road haulage no longer being subject to existing and future EU directives; the estimated increased cost of enforcement to the Exchequer in this scenario to ensure that UK hauliers operating here comply with EU requirements; and if he or officials from his Department have had meetings with their UK or Northern Ireland counterparts to discuss the impact of Brexit on haulage. [10047/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As you are aware the UK Government published their White Paper earlier this month. The issues raised and their potential implications for Ireland are currently being analysed. Our focus as ever remains the same: to defend and protect Ireland's interests in the upcoming negotiations and to advance our priorities namely, the economy, Northern Ireland, the Common Travel Area and the future of the European Union itself.  It is premature to speculate on the detail of how this will be worked out. Be assured that we are preparing intensively, including the implementation of an extensive programme of engagement with our EU partners and the EU institutions. Ireland will be ready for the negotiations when they begin.

In relation to the potential impact of Brexit on road haulage, my officials have always had a close working relationship with their counterparts in the UK and Northern Ireland and regularly interact to discuss issues of mutual interest. This working relationship is ongoing and will continue as the effects of Brexit develop.