FLEETINg SHOTS

16 | FLEETING SHOTS Truck Drivers Re-Unite in Carrick–on-Shannon

World Skills Ireland 2022 held at RDS

Carrick-on Shannon was the location for a reunion of former truck drivers hosted recently by Dublin native, Niall Daniels, now living in Leitrim.

This was in fact the second gathering of former drivers - previously Noel and Dominic Mc Guinness had organised a similar event in Mullingar, but it took ten years to put together the next one. Niall, assisted by his wife Bernie, was optimistic that a trend has now been set: “Hopefully, we will all be together again for another gathering next year. Let’s go for it. We, as a group of professionals, call us whatever you like, always prided ourselves on our friendship, helping another driver out on the road, having the craic, recognising other Irish trucks from their red rear number plates and fluorescent markings. Unfortunately, I feel we are becoming a thing of the past, and that old collegiality needs to be rekindled, hence the gig. We won’t get all the glory days back, but we can always reminisce with old friends.”

At the successful event in Carrick, there was lots of stories told, pleasant memories relayed and many tall tales drawn out. At the entrance to the room where the event was held an appropriate sign was displayed - “A re-union of Tall Tale Tellers & Knights of the Highway”, capturing the occasion perfectly.

Niall estimated that between all the long serving drivers present, at least 300 million kilometres had been travelled, with most of the attendees still behind the wheel. Sean Murtagh

The World Skills Ireland 2022 competitions took place from 13-15 September in the RDS Simmonscourt Arena, Dublin. Formerly known as the Apprentice of the year, these competitions are aimed at promoting skills, apprenticeship careers and opportunities for young people. This is where the best apprentices in Ireland are selected to compete for the national title of World Skills Ireland apprentice.

The skill area of Heavy Vehicle Maintenance (HMV) was sponsored by Bus Eireann/Dublin Bus, where 6 apprentices competed for the coveted silver medal. The trainee technicians were put through various tasks involving engines, transmissions, fuel and diagnostics, brakes, steering and suspension and auxiliary hydraulic systems. The standard was exceptionally high from all competitors and this was reflected in the skill and knowledge on show.

Pictured were the HVM apprentices competing – from left to right: Anthony Greenan (McElvaney Motors), Michael Daly (Cronin Commercials), Ciaran Nugent (McCarthy Commercials), Sean Maloney (Galway Truck & Van), Killian Naughton (Murphy Commercials) and Kieran Sterry (Colm Burns Commercials).

The second photo features overall winner Anthony Greenan (centre) with Denis Brazil (TuDublin) and Joe Scott (Bus Eireann).

Chadwicks Group appoints David Parsons as new National Transport & Logistics Manager

Chadwicks Group, Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants, has appointed David Parsons as its new National Transport & Logistics Manager.

The appointment comes during a period of sustained growth for Chadwicks Group and

has been made as part of the firm’s full-service strategy to meet customer needs in an increasingly demanding market. He assumes the position having previously worked with Aramex Ireland as Commercial Manager in Road Freight & Logistics.

David will lead the day-to-day transport function across the branch network and the strategic fleet management programme for the business. He will oversee the transformation to digital operations and the implementation of paperless operations and route optimisation to enhance the service offering and reduce carbon footprint as part of Chadwicks Group’s commitment as part of its sustainability agenda. David will also be responsible for developing and synergising the services of third-party suppliers and own account fleet of approximately 200 vehicles around the country.

David has 25 years’ experience in the trade and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Transport Management from Loughborough University, as well as a Certificate in Transport Management from TUD.