Irish Trucker magazine January 2013

DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 Vol. 15 No. 11 EURO 2.95 stg£2.50

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• Motor Fleet For Hauliers • Worldwide Transit Risks • Single Vehicle Haulage • Carriers Liability • Warehouse Risks • Employers Liability • Public Liability

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No part of this publication can be published or reproduced in any way without the written permission of the author or Lynn Group Media © Copyright Lynn Group Media 2012 The opinions expressed in Irish Trucker do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers, their agents or Irish Trucker.

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INDUSTRY NEWS L2L LOGISTICS LTD Providing top class distribution & logistics services JAMES P COREY TRANSPORT Container service out of Port of Belfast AJ CAR TRANSPORT LTD Leader in its field of expertise VIRGINIA TRANSPORT LTD. National & International transport & logistics GEARY LIVESTOCK LTD. Celebrating their 10th anniversary DRAIN POWER ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LTD “working harder under pressure” DARYL CURRAN TRANSPORT SERVICES LTD Safely delivering customers products M50 CONCESSION LTD. Operate and maintain the vital 39km artery GARYOWEN TRANSPORT LTD. Owner Gary Lowhan and his charity work MCCURDY LIVESTOCK TRANSPORT One of Northern Ireland’s leading livestock transporters LOUGHBEG GARAGE LTD. Providing an exceptional service BRIAN GRANT COMMERCIALS Supplying and maintaining all types of commercial vehicles J&K COACHES One of the premier coach operators on the island of Ireland ROBERT SCATES HAULAGE Successful Belfast based company ML MURPHY CRASH REPAIRS & 24 HOUR RECOVERY Looking after a large customer base CLASSIFIEDS

AJ Car Transport Ltd P22

Daryl Curran Transport Ltd P44

Garyowen Transport Ltd P53

McCurdy Livestock Transport P56

J&K Coaches P67

Drivers Install Vehicle Cameras for Protection Irish motorists are increasingly buying and installing "dash cams"; small, black box devices which record driving continuously, in an effort to protect against crime and insurance fraud.

The cameras which attach to the windscreen of a vehicle, are extremely popular in Russia where corruption amongst police officers is high and road traffic accidents are common. In the UK, where having a vehicle camera reduces insurance premiums, it is estimated that 180,000 drivers have installed vehicle cameras. This is expected to rise to 500,000 within two years.

David Byrne from DashCams.ie, an Irish website selling vehicle cameras said; "We have seen a surge of people buying our high definition vehicle camera. Young drivers in particular are apprehensive about beginning to drive and feel at peace knowing they have audio and visual evidence in the event of an accident or insurance claim. We're receiving lots of emails from taxi drivers who are looking for the protection of a camera system to monitor passengers."

Caffrey International dresses Actros in familiar colours

Pictured taking delivery of their new Actros is Brian Caffrey (left), managing director, Caffrey International with Colm Kennedy, truck specialist with Mercedes-Benz main dealer MUTEC.

As most major transport and haulage companies know, trucks and vans can carry more than the goods that are in the back. Through investment in eye-catching colour schemes and good corporate identity, trucks and vans can be a moving billboard and a highly visible advertisement for companies that pay attention to such matters.

Latest operator to dress their new Mercedes-Benz Actros in familiar corporate colours is the well-known national and international haulage company, Caffrey International.

Export orders improve for Irish manufacturers The manufacturing sector in Ireland appears to be continuing to expand, with export orders from the US, the UK and China on the rise, according to the latest NCB Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index for November. It suggests Irish manufacturing experienced growth for the ninth successive month in November after the index of national factory activity posted 52.4 compared with 52.1 the previous month.

New export orders, at 52.1, are positive for a second month in a row. A reading of 50 or above in the index suggests an increase in activity. In the eurozone, it rose to 46.2 in November from October's 45.4.

US manufacturing unexpectedly contracted in November to its lowest level in more than three years, falling to 49.5 in November from 51.7 the month before.

Suspected illegal immigrants spent hours inside a refrigerated lorry before being arrested in England Police attended the Texaco petrol station on the A16/A151 roundabout near Spalding following reports of banging coming from inside the lorry. They discovered five adult males and one 17-year-old male, all from Iran. They were subsequently arrested on suspicion of having entered the UK illegally and handed over to the UK Border Agency. A UK Border Agency spokesperson said: “When suspected illegal immigrants found on lorries are detained by police, our officers attend quickly. “We work closely with police to tackle illegal immigration and immigration crime. When someone is found to have no legal right to remain in the UK we take action to remove them.� The other contents of the lorry, believed to be fruit, will be destroyed.

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TRUCK NEWS

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Matthews Coach Hire scoops a major national honour at the SEAI Sustainable Energy Awards 2012 The innovative local coach company won the prestigious Energy Awareness Award at an awards ceremony in Dublin on Thursday (November 20). Also nominated for the award were Tesco and Veolia, operators of the Luas.

Matthews received the award for initiating procedures to raise awareness of energy efficiency across employees on a much more personal level.

“We are thrilled with this award, as it represents our energy saving work across the company over a number of years,” said Fleet and Quality Manager Noel Matthews.

“When you look at the companies that were also nominated in our category, you will get an idea of the scale of our project and achievement.

“This energy saving project has allowed us to reduce fuel consumption from 30 Brid Horan, Electric Ireland Executive Director, Brian Motherway CEO SEAI, and Minister litres per 100km to 27.23 litres per 100km Pat Rabbitte presenting the SEAI Energy Awareness Award 2012 to Majella Lambe, (10.4mpg), which makes a huge difference Human Resources Manager, Matthews Coach Hire at the SEAI Awards at the Conrad Hotel across our fleet.

“Our vehicles are often driven by two or more drivers per day, making it impossible to pin fuel usage to any one individual using standard fuel management techniques.

“However, installation of new technology and driver education allowed us to raise each employee’s energy awareness, providing them with direct feedback on their individual energy usage.

Drivers influence up to 30% of fuel consumption and this campaign positively recognises good driving behaviour, and encourages improvement through accurate feedback on a continuous basis.

The competition judges were full of praise for how Matthews staff worked together to achieve their goals in explaining why they gave the award to the company.

“Matthews Coach Hire has demonstrated an excellent programme which shows how technology systems can be integrated to improve energy awareness,” said the judges’ report.

“The programme showed commitment, empathy and adaptability around engagement with personnel. To date this project has reduced fuel consumption by 3% per annum.”

This is the company’s second SEAI award, having won the Energy Efficiency Category for Major Users in 2010.

It comes at a busy time for Matthews, who are moving their Dundalk terminus stop to Marshes Shopping Centre from this Saturday (December 1) onwards.

Dr Brian Motherway, Chief Executive of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) said: “Companies like Matthews are leading the way in energy terms.

“This year’s Awards participants have reduced their cost base significantly, improving their overall competitiveness and making more than 10,000 Irish jobs secure into the future.

“It has never been clearer how the employment benefits of sustainable energy extend well beyond the actual energy product suppliers and service providers."

HGV ban in Dublin to be reviewed Dublin City Council is looking for the public’s input on whether to extend the current ban on certain trucks in the city centre. At the moment, lorries with more than five axles are not permitted to use the city centre between 7am and 7pm.

The proposed changes would see the cordon extended from either 6am or 7 am to midnight. More than 4,000 HGVs per day have been prevented from accessing the city's streets since the ban came into Force in February 2007.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Contact GERRY @ 086-2624196 Finland gears up for ’super trucks’ The Finnish government has obtained parliamentary (the Eduskunta) approval to allow HGVs of up to 76 tonnes gross weight on its roads. Moreover, the legal height of trucks is to be increased from 4.2 metres to 4.4 metres. The new regulations, which require a final sanction by the European Commission, are set to take effect on 1 January 2013. The changes mark a more committed indirect support mechanism by government to aid a weakened Finnish transport sector, struggling under the weight of fuel costs, by helping to bolster profitability and reduce the cost-base of the country’s hauliers. The new 76-tonne limit has been sought by the transport industry in Finland since 2010. At present, the maximum permissible weights and dimensions of heavy vehicles allowed to operate on roads in Finland is up to 60 tonnes – 25 metres in length. Merja Kyllönen, Finland’s minister for Transport & Communications, said:? “The government has taken a very close look at the financial pressures under which Finnish hauliers operate. This measure will help companies to improve efficiencies in their logistics and save on fuel costs.

“Overall, this new measure will make Finnish transport companies more competitive,” she added. The government, said Kyllönen, accepted that “super trucks” would invariably result in higher maintenance costs to Finland’s primary and secondary road systems. However, the measure would also reduce environmental traffic emissions.

Mercedes-Benz Actros is Ireland’s Truck of the Year 2013 The new MercedesBenz Actros has been chosen Ireland’s Truck of the Year 2013.

The award was presented by Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte TD at the Mercedes-Benz Actros recent Fleet Ireland’s Truck of the Year 2013 Transport Awards ceremony attended by some 700 guests representing the commercial vehicles industry in Ireland.

Accepting it, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manager in Ireland, Fergus Conheady said ‘we are proud of the fact that every Actros launched in Ireland since the model was first introduced has been honoured with the Irish Truck of the Year Award.’

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MIDLAND BASED

All-New Ford Transit Custom adds Continental Irish Van of the Year award to its trophy cabinet The new Ford Transit Custom, launched last month in Ireland, has been voted Continental Irish Van of the Year by the Irish Motoring Writers Association.

The all-new model had already claimed the International Van of the Year title.

The expert Irish jurors assessed all new commercial vehicles on the Irish market this year on key criteria such as value-for-money, reliability, versatility and lasting residual value Collecting the award from Paddy Murphy of sponsors Continental Tyres, Ciaran McMahon, Marketing Director of Ford Ireland said. “The competition in the van segment gets tougher all the time, so each new Transit has to raise the bar to maintain its position as the country’s most popular commercial vehicle. It’s a huge boost to the new Transit Custom model that the Irish Motoring Writers believe it has done just that.”

Targeting an expanded share of the one-tonne segment by appealing to a broad range of professionals, tradesmen and small businesses, the Transit Custom combines new style and pioneering technologies with the Transit hallmarks of toughness, dependability and low cost of ownership, not least through its class-leading fuel efficiency. Its specification includes the Ford SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with the award-winning Emergency Assistance feature.

The Ford Transit Custom went on sale in dealerships last month from €22,450 incl. VAT, excl. delivery and related charges.

This marks the third time that a Transit model has taken the overall Irish Van of the Year award.

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Tyre & Service Superstore (Square Fit) Wins National Semperit Tyre Retailer Award Tyre & Service Superstore (Square Fit) with outlets in Tallaght, Ballymount and Finglas, was recently named the winner of the Semperit Tyre Retailer of the Year competition 2012. From a field of some 25 tyre retailers nationwide, Tyre & Service Superstore was selected as the best performing across a number of criteria.

Commenting on the win, Paddy Murphy of Semperit Ireland said: “I am delighted for Kevin Farrell and his team in Tyre & Service Superstore. This is our third year to run this nation-wide competition which we set up to highlight and reward excellent service in the tyre retail sector in Ireland. Our judges, saw a marked improvement across the board with all participants and there was very little separating the shortlisted finalists”.

The award is mainly judged on how each participant demonstrates excellence in customer service, a key cornerstone of business.

Semperit Ireland put in place a high level, independent panel of judges who assessed the levels of customer service of each participant in the awards programme. Those judges were RTE Kevin Farrell, MD of Tyre and Service Superstore, broadcaster and experienced motorist, Ronan Collins; Automotive receives the Semperit Tyre Retailer of the Year award for 2012 from Paddy Murphy of Semperit Ireland training expert, Mark Richardson; and editor of the Tyre Trade Journal and experienced motoring journalist, Padraic Deane. Each participant underwent stringent customer service testing through video-recorded mystery shop visits and recorded telephone audits.

In addition, the judges assessed pro-active marketing activity including the user-friendliness of the retailer’s website. The assessments included analysis of the retailer’s handling of customer requests, including range of products / services offered, value for money, courtesy and professionalism of staff and the quality / cleanliness of the facilities available to customers.

Managing Director of Tyre & Service Superstore, Kevin Farrell, said: “We are thrilled to have won the Semperit Tyre Retailer award. It really is a great tribute to the dedication of our whole team and our focus on constantly improving customer service”.

As winner of the award, Tyre & Service Superstore has received a prize fund that includes a local radio and press advertising campaign and, not least, a well deserved celebration night out for the staff of the company.

Square Fit has been in business for 21 years and in the last 18 months, the company rebranded itself as Tyre and Service Superstore. The company’s three Dublin depots are located at Ballymount Road Industrial Estate; St. Margaret’s Road, Finglas; and Old Blessington Rd., Tallaght.

The other shortlisted finalists in the 2012 competition were: Global Tyres, Dundalk - Heffernan Tyres, Kildare town - Philip White Tyres, Armagh City - Wicklow Tyre Services, Wicklow town.

SIMI disappointed with tax increases but welcomes new registration plate The Society of Irish Motor Industry described the budget as one that gives and takes from the motor sector. "While increases in VRT and Road Tax were strongly signalled, we warned Government that now is not the time and it is certainly not the time to increase both. The motorist is already paying enough tax to be on the road and new car sales are down 10,000 on last year. We have always said that more tax would be generated from increasing the sale of cars rather than increasing taxation. The Budget VRT increases should deliver about €50 million but this amount could be generated from the sale of just 6,000 extra cars and this would also support 800 extra jobs which would save the Government almost €20 million. On the plus side, for those buying a new car next year with a trade-in, the increase in VRT will have a knock-on effect on the value of the second hand, so the cost to change should not be significantly different. We are also satisfied that this major restructuring of VRT and Road Tax Bands was based on consultation with the Industry and has produced a structure that will give us stability into the future."

Alan Lyons, President of SIMI says, "The introduction of the new registration period is really good news for the Industry.

For several years, we have been highlighting the problem of seasonality in our industry, where 80% of new cars are sold in the first half of the year, forcing garages to reduce staff because of lack of business later on in the year. While we may not see a significant change in buying patterns in its first year of introduction, the new plate will have a hugely positive impact on the industry in the long term."

The retention of the VRT relief for electric cars, plug-in hybrids and flexi-fuel vehicles is also welcomed, as too is the reduction in Road Tax for Electric cars.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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EU funding for electric vehicles in Ireland ESB and the Department for Regional Development Northern Ireland (DRD NI) have been awarded €2.1m from the EU to provide 50pc funding for a major crossborder project to further develop the network of electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging infrastructure in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This initiative will facilitate the take-up of EVs and will also help Ireland in meeting its international obligations in relation to reducing greenhouse emissions.

The funding has been secured under the EU Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).

"This is a welcome announcement for the ESB and for Ireland. The ecars project has been granted over €2m funding from the EU's TEN-T programme to further develop charge points right across Ireland," said Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar TD. "The Commission's proposal for a successor programme is currently under negotiation in the EU and will be a key priority for me during Ireland's presidency of the Council next year. The funding will allow an extra 46 fast charge points to be installed, 41 in the Republic and five in Northern Ireland." ESB is currently rolling out an EV charging infrastructure across Ireland. At present there are 1,000 installed charge-points covering every county and 90pc of big cities and towns.

Export sales on the rise

More than half (58pc) of Irish exporters grew their sales in 2012 and 77pc think exports will increase in 2013, according to a report released by the Irish Exporters Association (IEA). The results are contained in the IEA’s Export Ireland Survey and International Trade Finance Review 2012. Rising costs and lack of access to finance from banks were cited by survey respondents as major concerns that could limit export performance.

The biggest cost challenges were increasing labour, energy, and local government charges, while 30pc of firms said they had experienced difficulties accessing trade finance from their bank this year. John Whelan, chief executive of the IEA said: “The willingness of Irish business to look further afield for opportunities is encouraging, with 71pc of Irish exporters targeting new markets. However Ireland’s high cost base continues to be a drag on growth. Two out of three participants in the survey reported an increased cost base in 2012.”

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Goverment introduces fuel rebate for licensed hauliers Fine Gael Cork North West Deputy, Áine Collins, has said the measure included in Budget 2013, which will see diesel rebates given to licenced hauliers from July next year, will help to reduce transport costs for the sector and secure the future for export related industries. Deputy Collins commended the work done by the group, of which she is a member, which was set up last February by the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan TD, to examine the issue, saying that the move will pay dividends for hauliers right across the State. “The decision to introduce a diesel rebate for licensed road hauliers of 7.5 cent per litre will be warmly welcomed by those in the industry who have been struggling to make ends meet. The Minister has been conscious of the pressures placed on the industry by rising fuel costs, and last February established a group comprised of the Department of Finance, the Revenue Commissioners, the Irish Road Hauliers Association, Fine Gael Deputy Heather Humphreys and myself to look at ways of assisting them and meeting their needs. “Hauliers, simply put, are the people responsible for moving our exports from A to B. Exports are key to our future economic recovery and ensuring that hauliers remain on the road, by reducing transport costs, means that they continue to play their part in getting our economy back on track.

“The decision not to raise fuel prices or carbon tax next year will assist the industry greatly. As a nation, we have made great strides in getting our economy back on a sustainable footing. The Government recognises the hardship being experienced by people, that is why this Budget has fairness at its very heart and those with the broadest shoulders are being asked bear the most. “Ensuring that small and medium enterprises are enabled to create the jobs we so badly need so that people can get off the dole and back to work is essential. Relieving the pressure on the haulage industry to reduce costs will allow it to continue to work with SMEs to deliver the growth we need for our future economic recovery.”

Employers expected to increase pay IBEC, the group that represents Irish business, has published the results of its latest pay survey, which found that about four out of ten (39%) employers expect to increase basic pay in 2013 and nearly six out of ten (58%) will freeze pay rates. Three per cent of employers say they plan to reduce pay in the coming year. IBEC said pay levels in Ireland are 16% above the eurozone average and pay expectations needed to reflect the very significant economic challenges the county still faced.

The group warned that any increase in employment costs in the Budget would cost jobs and push struggling firms out of business. Across all respondents the average expected change to basic pay rates in 2013 is projected at +0.62%, with pay increases being linked to improvements in productivity or major change. The results are based on a survey of 370 member companies.

No rise in fuel prices Unexpectedly there has been no rise in the price of petrol and diesel in the budget. Fuel prices have risen dramatically over the past two years and consumers were bracing themselves for a further price hike.

However, both were untouched for the time being at the very least.

Hauliers have been left crippled by the increasing prices, which has lead to many businesses being forced to close down.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

'Budweg, the Danish Caliper remanufacturer has just moved into its magnificent new factory in Odense, Denmark. This is the most modern remanufacturing facility of its kind in Europe and it represents continued confidence in its products.

Through the years Budweg has received numerous awards including those for growth, targeted environmental control and management as well as an automation award. Budweg is certified according to ISO 9001.

Budweg Caliper A/S always offers the highest quality products covering more than 4000 references for European, Japanese and Korean applications. Budweg has Europe's largest range of brake calipers. In addition, a comprehensive range in spare parts for repairing calipers is also be offered.

Of special interest to readers of irishtrucker.com will be the range of brake calipers and service kits for heavy duty applications, Trucks, Trailers,and Buses.

Budweg calipers are distributed throughout Ireland

by Tyrone based Paul Kane Vantruck and Bus Parts.

When irishtrucker.com spoke to Paul regarding the Budweg range of callipers he stated that the quality and range of Budweg products are the best available in the European aftermarket. He added no other remanufacturer offers such an extensive

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range of products remanafactured to such a high standard. Combined with their unique two year warranty package, customers can be assured of excellent value for money, in addition to peace of mind in the knowledge that Budwegs experience of remanafacturing brake calipers is unequaled in the industry. The business also offers a next day delivery service throughout Ireland for goods ordered up to 5pm. Extended business opening hours enables customers to collect their purchases up to 9pm.' So the next time you require a brake caliper wheither it is for a Mercedes Sprinter van or a Mercedes Actross truck, a Volvo truck or a Volvo coach or indeed any other brand of commercial vehicle, trailer or bus contact Paul Kane.

For the cost consious operator in these difficult times, perhaps a Budweg caliper repair kit is an option well worth considering. The range of repair kits extends from cars and light commercial vehicles to repair kits for heavy duty applications. Paul always has in stock an extensive range of these high quality repair kits.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Eleven tyre dealers receive Michelin Certified Centre status Eleven tyre specialists have received Michelin Certified Centre status and had the standard of their service recognised by the world’s leading tyre manufacturer. Their achievements were recognised at the first Michelin Certified Centre Business Seminar which took place recently in Malahide at which best practice, business trends and issues facing the tyre industry were discussed.

The eleven dealers, who collectively operate a total of 13 individual retail outlets – ten in the Republic of Ireland and three in Northern Ireland – are: Simon Allen (Global Tyres, Carrickmacross and Dundalk), Robert Ferguson (Discount Key features include: Tyres, Blanchardstown and Naas Tyre & Auto Services), Phil • Innovative friction-optimised Flynn (Dungarvan Tyre Centre), Thom Fox (Ballinasloe Tyre suspension system based on cutting edge shock Centre), Robert Frazer (Carryduff Tyres), Eamon Gleeson absorption and control (Eamon Gleeson Tyres, Cahir), Wilson Mackey (A One Tyres, technology.

Dromore), Michael McGrath (Safeway Tyres, Ennis), Patsy • Strength and stiffness for a Meyler (Meyler’s Tyres, Wexford), Cormac Nolan (Nolan Tyres, longer service Ballon, Co. Carlow) and Alistair Simpson (Tyre Safety Centre, • Outstanding comfort Cookstown).

• Intuitive controls Becoming a Michelin Certified Centre recognises the • Easy height adjustment achievement of each of the 11 specialists in providing the very feature (*Arm rests/Neck rests extra) best levels of service, professionalism and expertise that is approved by Michelin’s Europe-wide accreditation scheme.

For KINGMAN Truck Seats contact To qualify for certification and attend the seminar – which was hosted by Michelin UK and Ireland Commercial Director, Malcolm Scovell – each retail outlet had to successfully pass a T: +353 23 8838038 F: +353 23 8838057 stringent, independent audit of its operations. The audit E: gearoid@jmcparts.com www.jmcparts.com assesses the quality of the workshop and buildings, levels of customer service and personnel requirements including training and skill levels.

Speaking at the seminar, Mr. Scovell described the programme as ‘one designed to make dealers feel part of a successful, international organisation, while maintaining their own individual identity.’ He went on to say that Ireland’s eleven Michelin Certified Centre dealers are ‘as good as any in Europe in their approach to their customers.’

In recognising the contribution being made by each Michelin Certified Centre in delivering the standard of service that motorists now expect, their Sales Manager for Ireland, Tom Dennigan confirmed the company’s desire to grow the number of Certified Centre dealers, north and south, by 2014.

Other Michelin personnel present at the event were Michelin Certified Centre Programme Development Manager, Mark Coleman; Business Development Manager, Joe Davies and all of the company’s Area Managers in Ireland.

Eleven tyre specialists have Pictured with Michelin Sales Manager – Ireland, Tom Dennigan (seated centre) are the eleven successful received Michelin Certified Centre dealers, three of whom are from Northern Ireland and eight from the Republic of Ireland. They are (standing left to right): Robert Ferguson (Discount Tyres, Blanchardstown and Naas Tyre & Auto status and had the standard of Services), Michael McGrath (Safeway Tyres, Ennis), Simon Allen (Global Tyres, Carrickmacross and Dundalk), Robert Frazer (Carryduff Tyres), Cormac Nolan (Nolan Tyres, Ballon), Patsy Meyler their service recognised at the (Meyler’s Tyres, Wexford) and Thom Fox (Ballinasloe Tyre Centre). first Michelin Certified Centre Seated (left to right) are Eamon Gleeson (Eamon Gleeson Tyres, Cahir), Mark Simpson Business Seminar which took (Tyre Safety Centre, Cookstown), Samantha Jordan (A One Tyres, Dromore) and place in Malahide recently.

Phil Flynn (Dungarvan Tyre Centre).

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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New plastic card driving licences The new plastic card driver licence will be introduced from January 19th 2013. From that date all driving licences and learner permits issued will be in the new plastic card format, replacing the current paper licences. This is an EU initiative to introduce a secure, compact style of licence in all Member States. Anyone who applies for a licence or learner permit after 12th January will receive the new version. The cost of a ten year licence will be €55 from January 1st. A three-year licence fee will be €35 and a one-year licence will be €25. Under the terms of the EU Directive, the three-year licences will only be available to those over 60. This new price for a full licence compares favourably to the €85 cost for a full licence in Spain, €62 in Great Britain and more than €100 in Australia. It is also better value than a ten-year Irish passport, which costs €80. The new fees represent the first licence fee increase since 2001.

Six jobs to be created in the midlands with new SEAT dealership Six jobs will be created in the Midlands by 2014 with the opening of a new SEAT dealership at Colton Motors, Lough Sheever Corporate Business Park, Mullingar, Country Westmeath. “We are committed to the area and the SEAT brand is very important to our plans for the future,” said Keith Colton. “Within the next two years we will add six new positions to dealership through the addition of SEAT to existing brands and this is certainly good news for the area.” Simon Elliott, CEO of Volkswagen Group Ireland is delighted with the appointment of Colton Motors as their new dealership.

“Colton Motors have been in business for 40 years and in the motor business for 30 years so it is clear that the SEAT franchise for the Midlands is in very safe hands.”

SEAT’s new Toledo is just one of the new models that will be on show in the new dealership in the coming weeks and is available from Colton SEAT from just €185 per month on a PCP, and in February 2013 the new Leon will form the backbone of a new model offensive. In August SEAT Ireland secured a €20 million investment from parent company SEAT SA. SEAT aims to increase its market share in Ireland to 3.5% by 2015 thanks in part to its new product range and an ambitious dealership restructuring which is already underway. SEAT Ireland intends to grow its network from 22 to 26 by 2015. SEAT Ireland has aggressive finance and product offerings in the market for 2013, which include 3% APR Finance rates, as well as 3-years Free Servicing and 3-years Warranty.

Jessons Of Lincoln Choose Boniface For Their First New Recovery Vehicle

Jessons of Lincoln chose the Boniface T35 Transporter

Over the past 8 years, Jessons Of Lincoln have grown from a small one man business operating out of a van to a thriving business operating from two depots in Lincoln and Bourne with a further 2 satellite bases and a fleet of 12 recovery vehicles. Despite a difficult economic climate, Jessons have managed to grow their business and for the first time ever decided to buy a new recovery vehicle.

Liam spent many hours researching the 3.5t vehicle market and visited the Boniface stand at this year’s Tow Show where he was impressed by the build quality and features that the Boniface T35 Transporter offered. After talking to his Boniface representative and discussing the various options available to him, Liam left the stand having ordered his very first new recovery vehicle.

After a few weeks in service, Liam continues to be very impressed with the vehicle. He commented “the Citroen is averaging in the region of 30mpg which is a vast improvement over the larger vehicles in my fleet. The T35 conversion is simple, quick and safe to operate with the radio remote control and the whole vehicle gives a professional image to my customers which is important for the future growth of the business”.

Not only is the T35 simple and safe to operate via its radio remote control but it provides the operator with a vehicle that can be driven by anyone with a car licence including young drivers and anyone who has just passed their driving test. This coupled with no Operators licence, no speed limiter and exceptional fuel economy makes it very attractive for both long distance recovery and club jobs alike.

For further information on the T35 or any other Boniface product, visit their web site at www.boniface-eng.com or call them on 01842 754232 where one of their friendly staff will be happy to help.

Varadkar backs fuel rebate Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar has said the fuel rebate will create and protect jobs in transport.

Hauliers have been left delighted by the news that a fuel rebate will be introduced following Wednesday's budget. “Budget 2013 is not the toughest in our history, nor in our recent history, but it is the sixth austerity Budget which has mounted tax increase on tax increase, charge on charge, and spending cut on more spending cuts. Nevertheless, there are welcome measures in this Budget for hauliers, for tourism, the aviation sector, and job creation in the broader economy, in particular the diesel rebate, the aviation package, and the increased VAT threshold,” Minister Varadkar said. “Hauliers have been seeking a fuel rebate for some time. I have long been sympathetic to their cause. The Government has now announced a rebate on diesel which will come into effect in next July. This will be crucial for hauliers which have felt the impact of the rising global cost of fuel. It will also benefit exporters by helping to control transport costs."

14

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

TO BOOK ADVERTISING SPACE please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

15

L2L Logistics prides itself on the quality of service it provides to customers

L2L Logistics - for all your storage and distribution needs Since 2004, L2L Logistics has been providing top-class distribution and logistics services. Richard Lindsay Jnr explains more about the busy family-run company which operates just a stone’s throw away from Dublin city centre.

L

2L Logistics Ltd is a well-established company specializing in storage, haulage and distribution, based in the heart of Dublin.

Flexibility and innovative solutions have kept L2L to the forefront of its market. Indeed, a strong emphasis on quality, reliability and customer service has enabled the family-run company to grow and prosper, in spite of the global recession and soaring fuel costs. Boasting a modern fleet of Scania articulated trucks and 30,000 square feet of storage capacity in Glasnevin, L2L is ideally equipped and located to service the needs of the city and country.

“Our location is one of our biggest selling points,” enthuses

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Richard Lindsay, whose father – also Richard – set up the company eight years ago.

“We are based in Dublin Industrial Estate which is located directly opposite to Glasnevin Cemetery on the main N2 vein into the city. It’s actually the closest Industrial Estate to the city centre, so that gives us a big advantage over our rivals straight away. In addition, we are just minutes away from Dublin Port Tunnel, the M50 and Dublin Airport, so we can be easily accessed from any part of Ireland.

“We have a long and proven track record in this business and pride ourselves on the quality of services we provide to all of our customers.”

Richard explains the background to L2L: “It grew out of another company of ours, Mail Marketing (Dublin) Ltd, which my father set up in 1989 and quickly became market leader in its field, before selling it on a number of years later. We retained the logistics side of the business which became L2L Logistics in 2004. We now also offer a haulage and distribution service, which has been going quite well for us.

As a company that comes from a background of success, we endeavour to provide a service that best suits our client’s individual needs.

“With 30,000 square feet of storage space and a modern fleet of trucks and curtainside trailers, which are both

operated by a fully qualified staff base, we aim to carry on the family tradition and become one of the market leaders in this area.”

With its impressive storage space, L2L can make light work of all your storage pick ‘n’ pack and distribution needs, no matter how big or small. The facility offers the following: 3,500 pallet spaces; product pick and pack fulfilment; kit assembly; order processing via our on-line system, email, fax, phone; narrow aisle racking system; computerised location of pallets; secure loading and unloading area; haulage/distribution (artic and rigid); track and trace; proof of delivery.

“We store anything from food, drinks and grocery, hardware, POS marketing material, stationary, promotional magazines and files,” Richard explains.

“It’s mainly a pallet storage facility but we do some bulk storage as well. A lot of companies – ranging from food and drink to marketing firms to car importers and government bodies – use us because of our location and excellent service. If you have a product, it’s an ideal place from which to distribute it. Not a lot of people would know that we’re also the main warehouse for the Golden Pages phonebook. The distributors are in and out of here from August to mid-October every year delivering books to all parts of the country.”

The warehouse management system used by L2L Logistics is Azyra, which has clients in countries throughout the world, including Ireland, the UK, China, USA, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Spain, Russia, Holland and Belgium. The system can handle a company’s entire business in a superbly designed Microsoft SQL Server database. With remarkable ease, Azyra meets the needs of the largest freight groups while offering the affordability demanded by the smaller operator. It handles everything seamlessly – all the way from prospects through quotations, customer management to freight and logistics.

“We had the Azyra system installed two-and-a-half years ago and since then there has been a notable increase in our productivity and output. Thanks to this system, our customers know exactly where they stand when it comes to tracking and tracing their product. Not only has it helped us to maintain business, it has helped us to capture new business, so we’re very pleased with it,” Richard says.

L2L currently provides a professional and reliable distribution service nationwide. Most of their transport work is carried out on behalf of freight forwarders, bulk importers, retail companies, state companies and hardware providers.

Asked if L2L service the UK Richard explains, “It’s a side of the business we have some experience in but we are trying to expand into further. Should the right opportunities be found, we can offer that service. It’s a fiercely competitive business, but you will get the work if you can give the customers what they want and I think that’s why our customer-base is growing all the time.”

One of L2L Logistics’ most valued business partners is Aramex International, who are delighted to be associated with L2L Logistics boasts a 30,000sq ft storage capacity and a fleet of modern trucks

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

17

The company offers a nationwide distribution service

them. “We have an excellent working relationship with L2L going back over many years and I would like to wish them continued success in the future,” Aramex Transport Manager Willie Brophy said.

Aiden Cullen of TMS is also fulsome in his praise of L2L: “We have been using them for nearly four years and find them very good, very helpful and very reliable. They provide an excellent service and are always willing to go the extra mile.”

Jimmy Duffy of Leyden’s Cash & Carry has been dealing with Richard Lindsay and L2L for eight years.

During this time his business has increased by 100 per cent, which is a sound testament to the service provided.

“We use L2L for all our storage and logistics – up to 2,500 pallets,” Jimmy says. “Richard runs a very professional service and is an

excellent business partner.”

Richard is extremely appreciative of the business L2L Logistics Ltd has and continues to receive from its customers. He is also glowing in his praise of the company’s 10-strong

staff.

“On behalf of my father, my mother Anna-Maria – who has also played an important part in the growth of our business – I would like to extend a big thank you to all our customers, staff and suppliers. Without their help and support, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” he concludes.

CONTACT DETAILS L2L Logistics Ltd, 117-118 Bann Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11.

Telephone: +353 1 830 8666 Mobile: +353 87 687 8244 Fax: +353 1 830 8668 Email: richard.lindsay@l2llogistics.ie Website: www.l2llogistics.ie

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Top Northern Ireland transport company gives full time job to lucky Crumlin farmer McCulla Transport Ireland who teamed up with the Young farmers Club Ulster has offered a lucky young member the chance of a lifetime.

The McCulla Arctic Challenge was a unique opportunity for young men and ladies from the Young farmers association to gain valuable training and employment through a driving challenge. On the day they were driving 7 x 460 bop brand new Volvo trucks and trailers at 44 tons gross weight with a combined value of 1.4 million pounds. NFU Mutual provided sponsorship insurance on the day.

The challenge to all YFCU members was to take part in a one day articulated lorry driving course which was designed to show off their heavy goods vehicle driving skills. An incredible 56 Members were tested on Saturday 16th July 2011 at Nutts Corner Market site, Antrim and were each given a unique opportunity to complete in a driving course with a trainer who assessed their driving skills, the 3 finalist were also interviewed by director Ashley McCulla from McCulla Ireland to ensure that they were the right person to join their top fleet of drivers.

Each entrant was shown the basics of how to drive a 16 meter long Articulated truck, they were then asked to drive around a specifically designed course to test them on their natural skills in areas such as special awareness, accurate Top: Eamon McGarry of Crumlin YFC won the 2012 McCulla/YFC Artic reversing, controlled manoeuvring and of course self Challenge. Pictured from left: Stephen O’Kane (2011 winner), Eamon McGarry (Crumlin YFC), Ashleigh McCulla (Director of presentation.

McCulla Transport), Martyn Blair (Dep President YFCU) and Ken Top driving school Ken Irwin driving training provided judges Irwin (Irwin HGV Driving School. Bottom: The final ten of the McCulla/YFC Artic Challenge to assess each entrants driving ability.

The lucky winner of the challenge was Eamon McGarry from Crumlin in County Antrim who will now be trained and put through his HGV class 1 licence and given 35 hours of CPC training (certificate of professional competence) at a cost of approx £3500.

Also a starting salary of £18,000 per year job will be provided at McCulla Ireland with the potential of rising to £30,000 per year, a massive opportunity for Eamon and an amazing prize donated by top transport company McCulla Ireland Ltd. Eamon McGarry who was the first to arrive that morning because he was so eager to take part was delighted with his achievement on the day and told us “I can’t wait to start, I’m delighted to have won and I am really looking forward to becoming a full time driver with McCulla Ireland. I was so impressed with the event and the state of the art lorries and trailers, I can’t wait to go home to tell everyone that I actually won”.

Mc Culla Transport have 150 employees and a very low staff turnover, they currently have 64 lorries and 100 refrigerated trailers and are one of the top transport companies in the UK. The family company celebrated 42 years in business; McCulla Ireland Ltd offer top of the range temperature controlled haulage and refrigerated storage across Ireland, the UK and Europe.

Ashley McCulla, Managing Director of McCulla Ireland Ltd told us: “We were delighted to team up with the YFC to organize this event , by in large farmers have a strong work ethic the natural skills to be great truck drivers , we are very proud to have Eamon as part of our team. “ “YFCU Vice President, Martin Blair commented: “We were delighted to be working with McCulla Ireland Ltd for the second year which was a huge success and we can’t wait to take part again next year which I’m sure it will be bigger and better!

The opportunity that McCulla Transport is offering Eamon is truly life changing and I’m delighted for Eamon to have won as it was a tough challenge but he drove very well”.

Hillhall YFC provided the refreshments, a BBQ and some soup on the day and there was attendance from the NIFRS who provided advice on toxic gases and the PSNI also attended to advise young farmers on the requirements they need for agriculture machinery and cars and how to be driven safely on our public roads.

Top rugby player Paddy Jackson from Ulster Rugby also came along on the day to take the driving challenge and test their skills, but let’s just say they would be better suited to the airwaves and to the rugby field!

The day was a huge success and for the young farmers who missed out there is always next year for a chance to win a great career with McCulla Ireland Ltd. For more information on McCulla Ireland ltd please click on www.mcculla.co.uk and for more info on the Young farmers NI click on www.yfcu.org

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

19

Five decades of excellence James P Corey Transport is in its fifth decade providing a stellar container service out of the Port of Belfast. Since its inception in the late 1970s, this exceptional family haulage business has gone from strength to strength, providing a top-class service to generations of satisfied customers. Irish Trucker went North and met up with amiable managing director Kevin Corey to get an insight into the day-to-day running of the long-standing company.

J

ames P Corey Transport has

got in an F86 ‘Bubble’ first and then

work for most of the agents and

come a long way since its

continued with Volvo through into the

freight forwarders in Belfast.”

genesis, establishing itself as

late 1990s. We then introduced DAF

The company carries both imports

one of the most highly-regarded

and we now run ten 95XFs as well as

and exports, hauling general cargo to

haulage firms operating out of the

up to 30 sliding skeletal trailers. We

and from Belfast Port on behalf of

Belfast Harbour area. Over the 35

keep the fleet straight and tidy to

almost all the leading lines servicing

years or so since its establishment,

ensure that we project the right image

the port. In terms of their catchment

the company has forged an unrivalled

and also that our customers are

area at the other end of the journey,

reputation for itself in container work,

getting the highest level of service

Kevin explains: “We service all of

developing a specialist service that

possible.

Northern Ireland and we also do some

uses state-of-the-art equipment and

the

work in the South when required. But

dedicated, professional staff. MD

containerisation. Over the years,

I’d day 95% of our consignments are

Kevin Corey casts his mind back to

there have been ups and downs.

within the Six Counties…”

the late 1970s, to the time when his

We’ve scaled down a few times and

This year marks Kevin Corey’s 21st

dad, James, decided to set up his own

then grown again. I suppose it all

as managing director of the family

haulage company:

depends on the economy – there’s

business. During this time, he has had

not much you can do to influence it.

the pleasure of dealing with a lot of

You just have to go with the flow.”

decent people in the industry – both

“My father started out basically with one lorry drawing a tank and he gradually built it up from there. When

“ We

have

speaking,

with

however,

within his own company and amongst

containerisation came into Belfast we

James P Corey Transport is a

James P Corey Tr a n s p o r t ’s long-

were one of the first to get into that

progressive concern, especially in the

serving customers. He notes:

and the company progressed from

last decade or so, as the managing

“We have a very strong customer

there. The container work has always

director comments: “Up until about

base and people have been very loyal

been a big part of what we do. It’s

seven years ago we had a fleet of five

to us over the years. They have stuck

mostly containers now, today, but we

trucks, so we have doubled in size

by us and we like to think that’s

also do a bit of distribution work as

since then, which is encouraging.

because we provide them with a high

well.”

Thankfully, we are up to our knees in

level of service. We also have very

In terms of the fleet, James P Corey

work at the moment. We’re located in

strong staff and most of them have

has gradually switched over from

the heart of the Port of Belfast, central

been with us for a long time. One

Volvo to DAF, as Kevin reveals: “We

to all the container depots, and we

driver has just retired after 28 years’

20

Generally

grown

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

service. We have twelve workers here at the moment and they are a big asset to the company.”

Spanning five decades, James P Corey Transport has become synonymous with professional container work in and out of the Port of Belfast. To what does the managing

Continued Best Wishes To James P Corey Transport, From

CMC Accountants

director attribute the company’s success?

“We’ve always tried to provide an exceptional service. We try to do our very best on every consignment and we never let our standards drop. We operate to the very best of our ability on behalf of our customers and we carry out all our work on time in a friendly, efficient and competent manner.

2 Rathdown Close, Lissue Industrial Estate, Moira Road, Lisburn BT28 2RB Tel: 028 9262 1259 Fax: 028 9262 2369 Email: info@cmcaccountants.co.uk

Once the customer is getting the level of service he requires then he will generally stay with you.”

Best Wishes To James P Corey Transport, From

How difficult is it to strike the balance between price and service, especially in the times that are in it? “Service is vitally important. With the current climate, fewer consignees are carrying surplus stock, so when goods arrive it’s important to deliver shipments on time. It can be challenging, but customers have to be put first and we do that at as low a cost as possible in order to also remain competitive.”

As for the future, there are no plans for any rash expansions or diversification. James P Corey Transport has

Freight forwarding and logistics solution company with extensive coverage throughout the island of Ireland & UK. * Import and export * Air, sea and road haulage * Container transportation * Customs clearance

* Warehousing and storage * Worldwide global shipping * Freight Forwarding

7 West Bank Road, Seaview House, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast BT3 9JL

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forged an incredible level of specialist capability in a particular niche and they intend to continue focusing on that: “We’ll continue to do the same in the coming years,” Kevin confirms. “We’ll keep our overheads as sharp as possible and continue to offer competitive rates to new and current customers. But we’re always on the look-out for new business; you need to keep your finger on the pulse.

“Fuel prices have become a major problem. It’s

Worldwide Shipping Agents Johnson Stevens NI Ltd 7, West Bank Road, Seaview House Belfast Harbour Estate Belfast BT3 9JL Telephone: 028 9078 1762 Fax: 028 9078 1772 Email: info@johnsonstevens.co.uk

scandalous. On a busy month, our fuel bill could be

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£30,000, which is a colossal amount of money and is

Continued Best Wishes To James P Corey Transport

placing the industry under enormous pressure. But we’ll keep plugging away and we’ll always provide the best

Best Wishes To James P Corey Transport, From

possible service to customers old and new.”

CONTRACT DETAILS James P Corey Transport McCaughey Road, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast BT3 9AG. Tel: 028 9074 0000 Fax: 028 9074 9100 Mobile: 078 02937551

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

EG FREIGHT Unit 20, Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LD

Telephone: 028 94469598 21

Car transportation: AJ leads the way!

Providing professional, dependable, safe and affordable car / commercial vehicle transport services throughout Ireland and the UK, AJ Car Transport Ltd. has been a leader in its field of expertise since its genesis 13 years ago.

Irish Trucker caught up with founder / managing director Alastair Johnston to get an insight into the day-to-day activities of this outstanding Castlederg, County Tyrone based operation.

22

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The car/commercial vehicle transport solution provided is second to none

S

imply said, the car transportation solutions provided

by AJ Car Transport Ltd. are second to none.

Company proprietor Alastair Johnston offers a highquality, specialist service. This is his chosen area of expertise and he has spent the best part of a decade-and-ahalf honing his skills, fine-tuning the operation, learning what the requirements of customers are and adapting / tailoring his service to meet these needs.

The result is a customer-orientated, family business IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

(Alastair’s eldest daughter Stephanie works alongside him in the office) that offers high quality transportation and storage of cars and commercial vehicles at a competitive price. The reliable, efficient service is available throughout the UK and Ireland, with full insurance included on all procedures.

The full range of services available comprises vehicle delivery and collection, car transport, commercial vehicle transport, race and rally car transport and vehicle storage.

Only the best vehicle transporters and drivers are deployed

23

AJ Car Transport Ltd. has been leading the way since its inception in 1999

and a thorough knowledge of the industry ensures that every job is completed with total professionalism, with Health & Safety of paramount importance from the beginning of the journey to the end. All contracts are completed on time, every time.

The success of AJ Car Transport Ltd. to date has been built on a policy of putting customers first. Vehicles can be collected and delivered anywhere in the UK / Ireland, with customers guaranteed the peace of mind of

knowing that the team at AJ will treat said vehicles as if they are their own.

Positive word of mouth, steady repeat business and customer satisfaction on every job has resulted in a stellar reputation for safe and efficient car / commercial vehicle collection / delivery.

Reflecting on the origins of the business, MD Alastair notes: “I set the company up in June 1999 specifically to do car transport. I had worked in the haulage sector prior to that, as a driver doing freight work and general haulage,

but I always had an interest in car transport and this is an area I was keen to get involved in.”

Alastair purchased his first car transporter in 1999 and has never looked back. He now oversees a fleet of ten vehicles and has forged a reputation for himself as one of the premier car transport solution providers in the UK and Northern Ireland.

With the sale of new cars at an alltime low these days, as a result of the severe economic downturn, the vast

All Alastair Johnston’s vehicles are maintained in immaculate condition

24

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

majority of AJ Car Transport Ltd.’s work at present is in the collection and delivery of used vehicles.

Regarding his fleet of transporters, the company founder adds: “The ten car transporters in the fleet are all made by Transporter Engineering, who are market leaders in this area. Each of them would be able to carry up to eleven vehicles.

“All of our drivers are specially trained to operate the car transporters and I still go out and do a bit of driving myself. You have to be prepared to do your bit from time to time – that’s the way this business works. I have nine drivers on the books at the moment and one of my hopes is that I’ll be able to

Telephone: 074 91

keep all the lads in work. “ We have our own yard here in Castlederg, where we store the transporters, and we also have our own mechanic and do most of the servicing / repair work ourselves in-house. I’d say we do around 70% of the mechanical work here, while the rest would be done on our behalf by Volvo or Scania.”

Needless to say, preserving the fleet in pristine condition is a priority. “You have to keep them in perfect condition.

It’s vital that you are vigilant at all times,” says the company founder, who adds that no job is too big or too small.

But is it time-consuming loading so many vehicles onto a trailer? “We do full and part loads. You could load all eleven cars in an hour if you were picking them all up at the one stop but sometimes you have to make a few collections, which can be a little more time consuming.

Once you have the necessary training and know what you’re doing, i t ’s straight forward enough.”

The transport sector has been one of the biggest victims of the recession.

How is business for AJ Car Transport? “Ideally, we’d like to be busier but it’s holding its own. There’s still quite a few cars 46611 changing hands at auctions etc. and we get a lot of business out of that.”

And how difficult is it to

Best Wishes To AJ Car Transport Ltd., From

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keep rates down in a climate where costs – particularly the price of diesel – are going through the ceiling? “It’s hard to keep with it all the time the way fuel keeps going up. It could be £1.17 a litre one day and then £1.23 the following day but you have to stay in line with your prices and the quotes you have given. The price of fuel also drives up shipping costs, which we also have to somehow try to absorb.”

Clearly, it’s not really a time to be upgrading the fleet! “Our youngest lorry would be an 06 and the oldest is an 01.

We keep on top of them mechanically and also keep them looking respectable. I think the lowest mileage in the fleet would be about 350,000 miles, with the highest around 1,000,000. It might sound like a lot but it’s not in this line of work and the vehicles are well-maintained and regularly checked.

“Obviously, at the moment, with the times that are in it, you have to proceed with caution. We’ll roll up our sleeves and focus on what we’re doing. We have a good reputation and good contacts so I’m confident that we can bring this business forward.”

CONTACT DETAILS AJ Car Transport Ltd. 2 Drumquin Road, Castlederg, BT81 7PX. Telephone: 028 8167 9162 Fax: 028 8167 1796 Email: enquiries@ajcartransportcastlederg.co.uk

Best Wishes To AJ Car Transport Ltd., From

S.P. McCaffrey accountants & Co. 50 Campsie Road, Omagh, Co. Tyrone BT79 0AG T: 02882241515 F: 02882243568 E: mail@spmccaffrey.com www.spmccaffrey.com 25

Ray, James and Sean Cole with company founder Johnny (inset)

30 years in the making During the current economic climate, survival is the mainstay of any business, but there are few long established firms that have the experience and know how to deal with the ongoing problems that our economy throws up on a near daily basis.

26

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

O

ne such company is Virginia Transport Ltd, which is this year celebrating 30 years in business; a major milestone in any industry, but particularly more so in the transport sector.

For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the Cavan based company and speak to managing director Ray Cole about the success of the business.

The origins of the business can be traced back to the sixties when Ray's father Johnny begun collecting milk in the area with his Ford 14.9 for Bailieborough Co-Op. This is just one of the services that Virginia Transport Ltd continues to supply to this day.

These days, Ray, along with his brothers Sean, James and Eamon run the business as the company has gone from strength to strength over the years.

Based just outside Virginia, in Maghera Co Cavan, this family run business also has premises in Ballycoolin, Dublin 11.

Virginia Transport specialises in National and International refrigerated, dry freight and containerised transport and logistics, which sees their fleet of trucks travel throughout Ireland, IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

27

U.K and mainland Europe.

to do deliveries.

“My father Johnny and mother Bridie

He then started working with Virginia

would have started off the business. At

Milk Products and that is something

the time, they had a shop and general

that we still do, even though it has

merchants from which my father used

changed hands a few times since

28

then,” revealed Ray. “In the seventies, he started drawing cream to Baileys for Baileys Irish Cream Liquor and was the first man to do so. At that time, the cream was brought to the distillery in cans, but nowadays we would have ten tankers operating between their Dublin and Belfast plants.”

Older brothers Sean and James were the first of the siblings to get involved in the business while Ray and Eamon came on board in the late eighties, while another brother Brian was also involved in the day to day running of the company for a time.

“Half our work is concentrated on refrigerated work and the other half is in dry freight. We work for a number of blue chip companies in the country, many of whom we have worked with for a number of years now.”

Ray admits that the importance of being able to diversify has stood them well, especially as the country is in the depths of its second recession in 30 years.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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THERMO KING TRANPORT REFRIGERATION DHOLLANDIA TAIL - LIFTS

RETAIL REFRIGERATION Dublin (01) 4600322 Roscommon (094) 9640045 Cork (021) 4882077 Galway (091) 790788

www.brltd.ie Dublin Office: M50 Business Park, Ballymount Avenue, Dublin 12.

Email: info@brltd.ie

Best Wishes To Virginia Transport, From

CURRAN COMMERCIALS

Kells Road, Oldcastle, Co. Meath.

Tel: 049 8541114 Fax: 049 8541812 Email: joe@curran.net

Congratulations & Continued Success To All At Virginia Transport From

Continued Success To All at Virginia Transport

Principal Eirinn McKiernan B.A. LL.B 11 Ashe Street, Cavan Tel: 049 4373593, 4369580 Fax: 049 4373808 Email: eirinn@eirinnmckiernan.com 30

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

“We can cater for any type of haulage and this allows us to tender for many contracts, not just ones in our specialised areas. We also have a 10,000sq ft warehouse on site in which we store for many of our customers.”

The condition of the fleet is an

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

important aspect of the business and Ray told us that the trucks and trailers were being continuously updated.

“We have seen our fleet grow to over 60 articulated trucks and 250 trailers.

We now employ over 100 people. This year alone, we added nine new trucks

to the fleet. We recently took delivery of a brand new Volvo FH16-750 and a Scania R560 which will be part of the focus at our 30th anniversary celebrations, both of these new trucks that have been fitted with long haul Continental Tyres that are fitted for fuel

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Two new members of the Virginia Transport fleet beside the revamped 1997 Scania

and energy savings. “We carry out our own maintenance in our state of the art workshop and have full traceability of all our fleet. As part of our service provision we use some of the most advanced technology on the market such as Live Temperature Tracking throughout transit and remote Temperature Downloads at delivery. This traceability ensures that we are in full control of our customers' requirements ensuring on time delivery and customer

32

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Maudlins Cross, Naas, Co. Kildare Tel: +353 (0) 45 866468 Fax: +353 (0) 45 876244

www.dennisontrailers.com Continued Best Wishes To Virginia Transport

Keep on trucking with

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

33

satisfaction.

Minimising fuel consumption is a major issue in any haulage business and Vi r g i n i a Transport Ltd are no d i fferent as they try to source diesel at the keenest rate, while their drivers are also made conscious of not wasting fuel.

“We have a league table for the most eff i c i e n t drivers. These are drivers that have the lowest fuel consumption and we have found that this is working to our benefit.”

Ray admitted that the success of the company would not have been achieved without a loyal and reliable staff, many of who have been with the company for years.

“We are fortunate to have a very reliable work force. Many of the drivers have been with us years and they are the ones dealing with the customers on a daily basis.

“At Virginia Transport Ltd we believe in providing a first class personal and professional service whilst also offering the best logistical solution, tailored specifically to each customer.

“Our commitment to Quality is reflected in our ISO 9001:2008 accreditation.

This commitment to Quality has also seen us successfully attain a Good Distribution Practice (GDP) Passport from Life Sciences Ireland, which is testament to our company's ability to provide quality, secure and customer focused transport and logistics to the Pharmaceutical sector.”

On Saturday, November 17th the company organized a family fun day at the Lakeside Manor for all current, past members of staff and their families.

It proved to be a great day for all involved.

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Best Wishes To VIRGINIA TRANSPORT

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

TRUCK NEWS n with in associatio

BIT’S ‘N’ BOB’S

TRUCK ACCESSORIES Monaghan (087) 2480730 • TRUCK ACCESSORIES IN 1 STOP - INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • IRISH AGENT FOR KELSA TRUCK BAR’S • NATIONWIDE NEXT DAY DELIVERY

All-New Ford Transit Custom Reveals its Design and Safety Secrets on First Drive New Transit Custom Available in Ireland from November The new Ford Transit Custom which was launched at a drive event in Munich this week, is the latest in a long line of market-leading Transits which have sold approaching 7 million units since the first model was introduced in 1965.

Designed to be the most stylish and safe Transit ever, the all-new Transit Custom has a bold new look and is packed with the latest safety technologies, as part of its mission to appeal to a broader range of customers, including skilled tradesmen and small businesses.

While it provides a more car-like interior and driving experience, the new model has lost none of Transit’s legendary toughness, combining Interior of the all class-leading load-carrying ability, impressive durability and attractive new Ford Transit cost-of-ownership – with best-in-class fuel economy.

Custom Along with its Tourneo Custom sister model, an attractive people mover aimed at private buyers and commercial users, the Transit Custom will be sold in more than 90 markets worldwide, with the vehicle arriving in Ireland in early November 2012.

“Ford Transit has rightly been dubbed the backbone of Irish business as it has been a favourite for businesses, large and small, in Ireland since the first Transit arrived nearly 50 years ago”, said Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland. “The Transit has carved out a niche as Ireland’s most popular commercial vehicle and I am sure that the new Transit Custom will continue that tradition. With its new design and a host of advanced features, this is a stylish, modern van which customers will be proud to have on their driveway, while losing none of the hard-working attitude that they expect from a Transit.”

Bold new appearance, strong driver appeal The all-new Transit Custom features a bold new exterior which embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s latest passenger cars.

The new model offers class-leading load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features, such as a unique integrated roof rack system and an ingenious load-through hatch in the bulkhead for extra-long items.

In the cab, there is a modern, driver-focused cockpit which features a sculpted instrument panel that combines stylish looks with smart stowage solutions for bottles, phones and papers.

Once behind the wheel, the driver can call upon a wide range of driver assistance technologies shared with Ford’s latest passenger cars, including the Ford SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with the award-winning Emergency Assistance feature, Lane Keeping Alert, Driver Alert, Auto High Beam, and a rear-view camera system.

The strong driver appeal of the Transit Custom is reinforced by dynamics and performance which have been carefully tuned to reflect the same natural and easy-to-drive character which customers appreciate on Ford’s car range, together with much reduced noise levels.

Built tough for maximum occupant protection, and extreme durability Designed to be the safest Transit ever, the Transit Custom features an optimised body structure to maximise occupant protection that features ultra-high-strength Boron steel for the first time on a Transit.

An enhanced restraint system now makes curtain airbags available for the front seat occupants, and the Transit Custom is the first vehicle in its class developed with the latest Euro NCAP Protocol for pedestrian protection in mind.

Low running costs start with the class-leading fuel economy, delivered by Ford’s latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine (100, 125 and 155PS), with combined fuel consumption of 6.6 l / 100 km (42.8 mpg) and 174 g/km CO2 emissions – a reduction of up to 8 percent on the equivalent current Transit.

All-new Transit Custom has been subjected to Ford’s ultra-stringent Commercial Vehicle testing and durability standards.

Even before the vehicle goes on sale, it will have been driven the equivalent of five million km (three million miles), including at least 400,000 km (250,000 miles) with Transit customers.

Key components and systems are tested to the limit: for example, front doors go through an intensive regime of 250,000 non-stop slam cycles, which is three times more punishing than Ford’s equivalent passenger car test.

Transit Custom spec in Ireland will include: SYNC (advanced Bluetooth control and connectivity system incorporating Emergency Assistance function that notifies emergency services in the event of an accident; rake and reach adjustable steering; Auto Start Stop; Trip Computer; power durable locks; tinted glass; ABS and ESP; and full steel bulkhead with load through hatch.

4

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The team at Geary Livestock, l/r: Pat Geary, Roger Geary, Pa Geary, John McGrath, Stephen Lane, Liam Finn

Geary Livestock celebrates 10 years in business

Photo’s by Caroline McGrath

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the founding of Geary Livestock Ltd, which is a well-known livestock transportation company based in Mitchelstown, Co. Cork.

36

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

F

Pat Geary with part of the fleet

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

rom humble beginnings, Geary Livestock Ltd has grown into a successful company specialising in the transportation of pigs, cattle and sheep.

The family-run concern has established itself as the leader in its field by proving a service that has no equal in terms of reliability, value-for-money and excellence. From its base in the heart of the Golden Vale, Geary Livestock transports livestock to locations throughout Ireland. The company’s core business involves transporting pigs from farms in the Munster region to processing plants both north and south of the border.

Geary Livestock was born out of a business managing director Patrick Geary’s father Pa had run for many years.

“While Geary Livestock has only been in business for 10 years, we go back a lot further than that,” explains Patrick, whose wife Josie is also a director in the company.

“My father, who is still involved at the age of 83, has a wealth of experience in this business going back over 50 years. It was a one-lorry operation until I joined him in 1993.

We bought a second lorry at that stage and the business gradually expanded after that. We bought our third lorry in 1999 and we’re now running seven – four tractor units and three rigids.

“In addition, we have a number of three-deck trailers which are suitable for transporting pigs and sheep.”

Geary Livestock has invested heavily in the latest technology in trucks and trailers. The company boasts one of the most modern fleet of livestock trucks that are manned by six professional and highly-skilled drivers, including Patrick’s brother Roger. Geary Livestock is particularly proud of its staff, as any livestock company is only as good as the drivers it employs. Transporting thousands of livestock every week, the immaculately turned-out trucks are a familiar sight on Irish roads.

Geary Livestock recently took delivery of two new Scania trucks from A O’C Commercials in Carrigtwohill, who they have been long-time customers of. One of the trucks is a Scania Topline R620 with full V8 package, including luxury driver and passenger seats with V8 emblem stitching on back support, and finished with grey stitched edging, executive lighting door panels and floor mat, as well as factory-fitted chrome roof air horns.

The drive train is complete with Scania’s latest Euro 5 engine and two 700-litre fuel tanks. The truck is also fitted with Scania’s latest twopedal opticruise gear box. It was the first Scania in the country to be fitted with the latest Kelsa Grill light insert.

Finally, the truck was completed with Geary Livestock custom livery.

The second truck is a unique Scania P Cab Highline, which is completed with 6x2 lift axle, tipping equipment, cab interior including A/C climate control and leather steering wheel, twin fuel tanks, side skirts

37

Continued Best Wishes To Geary Livestock, From

The services we provide include: Business Planning | Annual Audit & Accounts Preparation Management accounts & Business Development Service Computerised Book-keeping | Payroll Assistance |Taxation advice & Planning Financial Planning | Preparation of VAT returns

Mitchelstown Office 18 King Street, Mitchelstown, Co. Cork T: (025) 84232 | T: (025) 84202 F: (025) 84736 E: reception@osullivanlewis.ie

Cashel Office Lady’s Well, Cashel Co. Tipperary T: (062) 62222 | F: (062) 62222

www.osullivanlewis.com Continued Best Wishes To Geary Livestock From

Wishing Geary Livestock Continued Success In The Future From

Killalough Cross, Glanmire, Co. Cork T: (021) 4821300 F: (021) 4866509 E: delaneyinternational@eircom.net www.delaneylubes.ie

O’Brien Bros Trans Ltd International Transport

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O’Brien Bros Transport specialise in livestock and refrigerated transport from Ireland UK, mainland Europe and North Africa

Full Range Of MOBIL • LUBE OIL • GREASES • SPECIALITES THE WORLDS MOST ADVANCED MOTOR OIL

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Keep on trucking IRISH with & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Livestock Haulage Wooddown, The Downs, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Tel: 044-9345680 Mobile: 086-279 9659 Continued Best Wishes To Geary Livestock

38

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Geary Livestock are proud of their roots, front, l/r: Leah Geary, Maeve Geary, Gemma Geary. Back, l/r: Pa Geary, John McGrath, Stephen Lane, Josie Geary, Pat Geary, Roger Geary and Liam Finn

and Kelsa accessories. The drive train is complete with a 420BHP Euro 5 engine.

Geary Livestock has continued to go from strength to strength, despite the closure of the Galtee Meats plant in Mitchelstown six years ago.

“The closure actually turned out to be

a blessing in disguise for us because the pig farmers in the area had to send their pigs to other factories instead.

Those farmers had to be catered for, and that’s where we came in. We experienced a big surge in business after Galtee Meats closed,” Patrick says.

Geary Livestock now operates regular runs to the following bacon factories: Rosderra Irish Meats Group in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary and Edenderry, Co. Offaly; Dawn Pork & Bacon, Waterford; Staunton Foods, Timoleague, Co. Cork; Ballon Meats, Ballon, Co. Carlow; Green Pasture

Wishing Geary Livestock Continued Success In The Future WE PROVIDE A COMPLETE RANGE OF AFTER SALES SERVICES FOR BOTH SCANIA & ISUZU • Full 24 Hour Break Down & Recovery Service Tel: 00353 86 8040058 • Excellent garage facilities and provide Truck repairs for all Models HGV/Light Commercials • 100% Genuine Spare Parts for both Scania & Isuzu • State of the art testing Facilities providing DOE testing for both Heavy & Light Commercial Vehicles • Trailer Repairs • A full Spray Paint & Crash repair centre • Tachograph agent and Provide full Euro Plating IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Springhill, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork Tel: (021) 4883322 Fax: (021) 4883889

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Meats, Drumlish, Co. Longford; Grampian Country Pork, Cookstown.

Co. Tyrone; William Grant & Co, Co. Derry; McCarron Meats, Cavan; and Finn Meats, Mitchelstown.

Geary Livestock has completed animal welfare courses and follows all the guidelines and regulations in this regard. Their trailers, which have passed Departure of Agriculture inspections, have automatic ventilation and watering systems.

They are cleanly thoroughly after every trip. Patrick and his staff go out of their way to ensure the journey is as stress-free as possible for the livestock.

The company had provided an international transport service up until about a year ago when an increase in cattle prices in this country no longer made it feasible. “We used to transport calves to Holland, Italy and Spain, but the decrease in live exports at the time meant the work dried up for a while. It’s something we would

40

consider getting into again if things CONTACT DETAILS were to change down the line,” he says.

Geary Livestock Ltd Like all transport companies, Geary Kilglass, Livestock hasn’t been immune from Mitchelstown, the double whammy that is the Co. Cork recession and rising fuel costs.

Telephone: 025 84054 “It’s become very competitive since the onset of the recession. On top of Best Wishes To Geary Livestock, From that, you have the Mondaniel, spiralling cost of Rathcormac, Co. Cork diesel to contend with.

Livestock Tel: +353 (0)25-36301 haulage is a Fax: +353 (0)25-36444 specialised Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-6.00pm Sat 9.00am - 5.00pm. business and it’s not something you can just take up. | Pre-nct checks | Mini-services carried out When farmers deal | Computerised wheel alignment | Computerised wheel balancing with us, they can be | Puncture repair assured of the best | Alloy wheel straightening using specialised equipment for this purpose possible service at | Light focusing | Tyre vulcanising the most | 24 hour breakdown service provided. competitive price,” | Full range of tyres now in stock. he concludes.

www.rathcormactyres.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Drain Power working harder under pressure Based in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, Drain Power Environmental Services Ltd provides a septic tank, drain cleaning and waste collection service to customers in the greater Munster region. Managing director John Fanning explains more.

E

stablished in 1998, Drain Power Environmental Services has earned a reputation as one of the country’s leading septic tank emptying and drain cleaning businesses.

From its Nenagh base, the company services Tipperary and the surrounding counties of Galway, Limerick Cork, Offaly, Laois, Kilkenny, Waterford and Carlow. Drain Power specialises in everything from the investigations of blockages and rat infestation to maintenance, repairs and CCTV surveying. Operating on a 24-hour, 365day emergency callout service, the company also provides a waste disposal service which has been availed of by customers as far away as Sligo.

“Our motto is ‘working harder under pressure’. If someone calls us with a problem, no matter what time of the day or night it is, we won’t let them down,” John says.

“We’re a one-stop shop for all your septic tank, drain cleaning and waste collection needs. We offer a fast, friendly, reliable, value-for-money service that won’t be beaten.”

Drain Power’s customers include private households, contractors, engineers, property developers, local authorities and government departments. It’s a sign of the times that the company is also attracting a lot of business from receivers who have taken over properties whose owners were unable to meet the repayments on.

“We are currently managing housing estates for receivers such as Grant IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Thornton, KPMG and Kavanagh Fennell,” he explains.

“Even though people aren’t living in these estates, they still need to be maintained from a drainage point of view. Most of our customers are repeat, which is always a good sign. We do a lot of work for local authorities, while two of our best customers are AES Environmental and Somerton Environmental in Cork.

“It’s tough out there at the moment with the country the way it is and with the amount of competition we face from other companies. But people use us

because they know they will get the best possible service.”

Drain Power employs eight staff and boasts a seven-strong fleet of specialised trucks and vans. All of the c o m p a n y ’s engineers are trained in manhole entry and confined spaces and are the holders of Safe Pass Certificates. Drain Power holds a nationwide waste permit which allows it to legally service and clean septic tanks in the Republic of Ireland. In addition, the company has a vehicle specially designed for carrying out CCTV camera inspections on pipework, with diameters

A vacuum tank does its job

41

John Gamble in the CCTV mobile office

A telescopic 300mm camera

A replaced storm line

A kitchen grease trap

from 100mm to 600mm.

Drain Power also offers a waste disposal service, including grease trap maintenance and grease disposal. The company holds a waste collection permit for the following counties: Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow and Tipperary. All sludge is disposed of at Limerick City Council’s state-of-theart treatment plant.

If you are experiencing problems with your drain and in need of drain cleaning services, Drain Power can solve the problem quickly and efficiently. The company has the most up-to-date equipment, including power jet systems, CCTV cameras and cleaning equipment to ensure a fully-effective drain cleaning service.

Drain Power offers a professional, clean and reliable service for commercial, industrial and residential clients. Its domestic septic tank cleaning service incorporates the cleaning and servicing of septic tanks. This involves annual

42

A grease trap being installed

Septic tank installation

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A CCTV control station

Continued Best Wishes To Drain Power, From

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Arra Tyre Repair Materials Ltd Ballycardio, Newtown, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary

Sales 086 3303901

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Best Wishes To Drain Power From

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Best Wishes To Drain Power, From

MOLECT

ELECTRICAL SERVICES ALL INDUSTRIAL & DOMESTIC WORK CARRIED OUT Ecssa Registered Email: molect62@gmail.Com

Tel: 061 307035 Mobile: 087 9370343 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

liquid and sludge removal, hydro-cleaning of drains associated with the septic tank and a call-back service to monitor yours drains and septic tanks. Call 086 050 5454 for a free quotation.

John Fanning is also well known for his role as president of the Limerick Leprechauns, which is a veteran’s rugby club that uniquely raises funds for local charity groups by bringing together former players from Limericks clubs – whose normal relationship is one of fierce sporting rivalry – to help those less fortunate in society in general.

Over the course of its 25year history, the club has raised a staggering €1.25 million for a variety of local charities and worthy causes.

Some of Munster rugby’s greatest players have lined out for the Leprechauns over the years, including former Irish Internationals Gerry ‘Ginger’ McLoughlin (the

current Lord Mayor of Limerick) and Brian Spillane as well as Francis Brosnan, Michael O’Loughlin and Sonny Kiely.

“I’m privileged to be involved with the Limerick Leprechauns. I’ve travelled the world with them and have enjoyed been involved in the numerous fundraising initiatives they’ve had down through the years,” he concludes.

CONTACT DETAILS Drain Power Environmental Services Ltd Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.

Telephone: 086 050 5454 Email: drainpower@ireland.com

Continued Best Wishes To Drain Power, From

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Tyres | Exhausts Wheel Balancing & Tracking Puncture Repair | Alloy Repair

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067 32422 Continued Best Wishes To Drain Power, From

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A no-nonsense service With Daryl Curran Transport Services Ltd., what you see is what you get: a thoroughly-professional, no-nonsense, straight-to-the-point transport solution provided on time and at a reasonable rate. Since its inception eleven years ago, this stellar company has developed an impressive number of partnerships throughout the Republic of Ireland. We dropped into the depot in Naas and had a chat with founder / proprietor Daryl about the services provided, the expanding fleet of almost 50 units, and how he is bucking the economic trend.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Daryl Curran Transport Services Ltd. uses only the best vehicles. The new livery looks amazing

waste goods transportation.

The progressive Naas-headquartered company continuously endeavours to improve the services provided through constant innovation and by consistently improving quality, safety and productivity. It also strives to provide the highest level of customer satisfaction, meeting individual requirements and needs at all times.

Daryl set the company up in 2001. How did that come about? “My father had a lorry all his life and I grew up in that environment. I used to go out on the continent with him even before I started school, when I was four.”

Coming from that sort of background, it was almost inevitable that Daryl would himself develop an interest in the haulage sector. “I started out with one truck doing tipper work in quarries. After two years I had two trucks and within three years I was operating four and had started working for more quarry companies.

“Then I got away from that altogether in 2004 when I started doing traction work out of Dublin Port.”

Today, Daryl operates a fleet of 18 tractor units and over 30 trailers. Most of the work is nationwide but he does travel to the continent as and when his customers require, with one current contract involving the transportation of pharmaceuticals to Denmark.

It would be fair to say that Daryl Curran Transport Services is a versatile operation.

“There’s nothing we don’t do,” the founder confirms.

“We’re predominantly in refrigeration but we also do container work, cutainsiders and also run tankers. The only thing we don’t do anymore is bulk tipper work.

I’ve had enough of that.”

The fleet comprises 90% MAN trucks. Why is this? “They are brilliant on fuel, are very

G

rowing despite the worst the recession can throw at it, Daryl Curran Transport Services Ltd. uses the best vehicles and staff to provide an exceptional transport solution throughout Ireland – and sometimes further afield, including a regular service to the UK. The company’s mission is to safely deliver customers’ products on-time and accurately. Throughout its community of customers, employees and aff i l i a t e s , Daryl Curran Transport creates an atmosphere of safety, trust, honesty and integrity.

Recognised for providing a professional, no-nonsense range of transport solutions, Daryl Curran Transport specialises in refrigerated transport but is also renowned for its traction, palletised freight, ADR and IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Based in Naas, the company has been going strong for eleven years

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TRANSPORTING YOUR COMPANY TO THE CLOUD CALL TODAY FOR FREE DEMONSTRATION

1800 300 900

Wishing every success to Daryl Curran Transport Services Ltd

Best Wishes To Daryl Curran Transport Services Ltd, From

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Best Wishes To Daryl Curran

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Newbridge, Co Kildare 045 431281 Dublin 01 6249710 www.mcloil.com

Continued success to Daryl Curran Transport Services Ltd,

from

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M.S. Tyres are the leading suppliers of all sizes of tyres for all applications, CARS| TRUCKS| TRACTORS| QUADS ETC PRE NCT SPECIALIST 24 HOUR MOBILE TYRE SERVICE Unit F1/F2 Whitesland West Business Pk, (Old) Monasterevin Rd, Kildare Town

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(0) 46 9241923

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Daryl oversees a fleet of 18 tractor units and more than 30 trailers

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

straightforward to operate and they go f o r e v e r .

Maintenance costs are low and they tick all the boxes. For me, they are the most under-rated truck on the road.”

Daryl also oversees his own workshop, where all maintenance, repairs etc. are carried out on-site.

Daryl Curran Transport Services Daryl Curran says MAN provides gainful trucks are “brilliant on fuel” employment to 34 full-time staff as well A member of the board of as five part-time workers. the FTA, Daryl is not With this comes a lot of planning to rest on his responsibility but the laurels any time soon. proprietor is glad to be in a Looking to the future, he position to provide a wage says: “I hope to continue to and says he “wouldn’t expand. I’m hoping to have it any other way”. double the size of the fleet While many companies over the next two years are struggling to cope with and to maybe open a UK the difficulties and office.” uncertainties presented by As for the blight of rising the recession, the fuel costs, Daryl feels that opposite is the case for the solution is as simple Daryl Curran Tr a n s p o r t and obvious as it is Services: “I have grown unavoidable: “It’s not the company over the last about the rate; it’s about three years and the the margin. In my eyes, it’s recession hasn’t affected simple – the customer has us at all. I actually to pay a surcharge. The struggled through the customer has to realise boom times but the last that that’s the price of fuel. couple of years have been I wouldn’t believe in calling good to me. for strikes or blocking “Between October and roads – trucks are too March I added six trucks to expensive to be used as the fleet and I also have blockades. We just have to ten new fridges coming in, pass the increases on.” so we are moving forward.”

How has this CONTRACT progress been DETAILS possible in such difficult times? “I aim very high and run the Daryl Curran Transport business to a very Services high standard. We are Pluckerstown, currently implementing Kilmeague, on-site driver training Naas, and installing a new County Kildare.

Telematic system.

Tel: 085 7272300 We’re also looking at Fax: 045 252019 introducing driver Email: uniforms and on-line daryl@dcurrantransport.com POD retrieval for www.dcurrantransport.com customers.”

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The trusty M50 Concession crew

Keeping the M50 flowing As Ireland’s busiest stretch of road, it is absolutely imperative that traffic on the M50 motorway is kept moving at all times. M50 Concession Ltd. holds a 35-year contract to operate and maintain the vital 39km artery and Irish Trucker recently had a chat with operations and maintenance manager Fraser Boyd to get an insight into the day-to-day activities of this thoroughly essential company.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

I

n 2007, the National Roads Authority awarded the contract for the operations and maintenance of the M50 to M50 Concession Ltd., who will operate the motorway until 2042. M50 Concession Ltd. operates the entire length of the M50 motorway mainline between Junction 3 (M1) in the north and Junction 17 (M11) in the south - a total of 39

km. Their obligations include routine, cyclical and major maintenance of the road as well as winter maintenance and traffic management.

Furthermore, M50 Concession Ltd. provides a 24/7 emergency response and vehicle recovery service on the M50 (as well as the interchanges on the M50 motorway).

For the purpose of this dedicated 24-hour emergency response, M50 Concession’s contractor, Kelly’s Recovery, responds to emergency situations and, should the need arise, tows vehicles off the M50 motorway to a safe location to reduce traffic congestion and increase safety for the motorist and other road users.

Reflecting on the genesis of M50 Concession Ltd., operations and maintenance manager Fraser Boyd notes: “There was an initial construction upgrade to widen 24km of the M50 motorway. Commencing in September 2007.Phase Two of the M50 Widening Contract was completed in Sept 2010. The PPP Contract includes the operation and maintenance of the motorway, which will run until 2042. “ We operate and maintain the M50 under a PPP Agreement with the NRA who issues payment based on availability. The free flow tolls are operated by the NRA under a contract with Betairflow, so we don’t have responsibility for the actual collection of money. We have a performance based contract to ensure the upkeep of the road, which runs for 39km from Junction 3 on the M1 to where the M11 meets the M50 near Bray.”

It’s a known fact that the M50 is by far and away the busiest piece of roadway in Ireland. But just how busy is it? Fraser gave us a few stats: “Peak traffic of about 135,000 vehicles is recorded on Fridays. The average traffic that passes along the motorway is 120,000 vehicles per day. As it’s so busy, this presents obvious operational difficulties. For example, we can’t do lane closures during the day so we have to carry out a lot of our operations at night time. Generally, we will do verge work during the day and will have a full-time crew working at nights.”

M50 Concession provides employment to a total of 26 people. This breaks down into ten operatives and an electrician who work on the roads; four control room operatives who monitor traffic and take emergency calls, office staff; three financial administrators; four engineers; the operations and maintenance manager; plus a general manager.

As operations and maintenance manager, Fraser Boyd is

M50 Concession’s fleet is maintained in tip-top condition

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

49

Best Wishes & Continued Success To M50 Concession Ltd. From

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Best Wishes To M50 Concession Ltd

Best Wishes To M50 Concession Ltd

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KIERNAN BROS. CONTRACTORS & CIVIL ENGINEERS

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50

Best Wishes To M50 Concession Ltd. From

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Tel: 01 2867918 E:kellymotors@eircom.net IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The M50 Concession team keeps the motorway ticking over during winter time

responsible for overseeing all routine maintenance as well as the delivery of all contractual agreements with the client. “I’m basically here to keep the client happy,” he quips. M50 Concession is ISO 9001,14001 and 18001 accredited and also meets all the relevant quality and Health & Safety standards.

One of the most difficult challenges facing M50 Concession Ltd. each year is the implementation of its winter maintenance programme – which is of course of paramount concern at this time of year. “Last year was mild but the previous two or three years were very testing,” Fraser confirms. “We have to ensure that we provide the right personnel, who have the right equipment and are stocked with adequate salt supplies.

“We would have twelve men who are fully trained in winter maintenance. In the past, we’ve had major problems during rush hour as we find that, when it starts to snow, everybody decides at the same time to head for home!

“We have our own plant and we also hire in some additional vehicles. We have six gritters with ploughs and a seventh plough and we are holding up IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

to 2,000 tonnes of salt.” around €10,000 worth of diesel every Vehicles in the fleet include a month, which has increased purpose-built traffic management dramatically in recent years. When we wagon with a crash cushion on the buy plant, we generally write it off over back (which can be used as a plough), a five-year period.” two 26-tonne wagons with As for the day-to-day enforcement of demountable gritters (one tipper with the contract, the operations and HIAB and one flatbed), two 26-tonne maintenance manager of M50 permanent-mount Mercedes gritters, a Concession continues: “A lot of it is to 7.5-tonne Mercedes with Hoist a Transit van and four Ford Rangers for staff use. The HGVs are all Mercedes Benz units.

“We also lease a couple of Isuzu 3.5-tonne vehicles from Swords Auto as well as a purpose-built incident support vehicle on a Ford chassis. This handles our frontline maintenance and emergency callouts. We also have a Ford Focus inspection vehicle and other items of plant such as mini diggers, grass cutters and loading plant.”

As in every company, there is no bottomless pit of finance... “We Best Wishes & Continued Success To only have a certain amount of The Management & Staff At money to spend and we have to M50 Concession Limited set our budgets accordingly,” Fraser notes. “We have to try to Lawless Yard, North St, Swords, Co. Dublin T: + 353 1 8404748 F: + 353 1 8406230 keep our costs down. For info@swordsauto.ie | www.swordsauto.ie example, we are currently using

51

Part of the hard-working M50 Concession fleet

do with aesthetics and how the road looks. The general maintenance involves a lot of litter picking – litter and graffiti are major issues, as are grit and dirt. Visibility is vital and our client is keen to ensure that the road looks good as well as being in great condition at all times. There is a lot of routine, day-today work and, of course, longer-term

capital replacement works, the road surface will have to be replaced at some stage.

“There are a lot of third parties working on the road and we have to manage them and deal with them as well. When third-party contractors are working on the M50, we have to induct them and ensure they work safely.

“ We do all our own traffic management and our staff are fullytrained in all aspects of both static and mobile Traffic Management. Because the motorway is three lanes wide with free-flow interchanges and narrow hard shoulders, traffic management is complex all our men are highly-trained to LANTRA TM standards, which is crucial in this line of work.”

Wishing Continued Success To M50 Concession Ltd From All At

The services that our group of companies can provide are

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Haulier with a big heart In the dog-eat-dog times that are in it, it’s refreshing to encounter a haulier who is as impressive on a human level as he is in the business sense. An affable Kerry-based Dub, Gary Lowhan of Garyowen Transport Ltd. is a very popular and likeable individual, whose charity work was the subject of an episode of the tv show, Truckers, earlier this year. We caught up with lifelong trucker Gary to find out how he enjoyed his 15 minutes of fame…

W

ith margins so tight and overheads Gary Lowhan likes to use his trucks for charitable purposes rising on an almost-daily basis, it’s extremely difficult to keep a transport business going in Ireland today. The investment of time (and money) required is nothing short of massive, which leaves very little time for other activities – like family life, hobbies, holidays or just generally relaxing.

Against this backdrop, it’s hard to imagine any operator finding the time, energy and drive to participate in humanitarian work. But Gary Lowhan, the proprietor of Garyowen Transport in Tralee for almost three decades now, is one of those rare individuals who manages to set aside some time to help others.

Viewers of the tv programme Truckers might remember Gary’s participation in an episode Holland etc. So, yes, it would be fair to say I’ve been driving of the show this year. As part of his involvement with the lorries all my life.”

Shoebox charity which brings Christmas presents to children While there was once a time when you could make a living in Romania, Gary was filmed over the course of his sevenfrom providing a quality transport / courier service, Gary day trip to the south-eastern European nation last says those times have long gone. Now, with the recession December. biting, it’s a struggle throughout the sector and it is becoming It was a lovely gesture from a man who’s always willing to increasingly difficult to turn a profit: go out of his way to help others, but when he got home Gary “It was good to me,” he reflects. “It was good for a long time was quickly reminded that he had a business to run. He’s but there is no value in it any more. It’s hard to make a living been in haulage all his life and times have never been in this game and we have no value on ourselves as a tougher than they are now: profession – that’s one of the problems.

“I set the business up in 1986 along with a friend of mine, “The costs involved in transport today are savage. It’s a who has since left,” he notes. “I’m originally from Dublin but crazy situation. The cost of diesel and tax just keeps rising moved to Kerry when I was 22, having worked on the and rising and there seems to be no end to it. Toll bridges continent for four years before that, driving in Germany and are popping up all over the place and everything seems to be stacked against the haulier.”

At present, Gary oversees a reduced fleet of six A consignment of aid for those who really need it vehicles – five Scanias and one Volvo – operating a highquality groupage service from Dublin to Kerry. As an independent operator, he is finding it difficult to compete with the increasing number of networks, which seem to have a high volume of work.

“I’ll remain independent and will keep it going myself as best as I can and for as long as I can. Nobody likes to lose their business or their trucks and I’m no different to anybody else in this respect. I want to keep the show on the road, even though it’s a big challenge.”

Garyowen Transport Ltd. is very much a family business with Gary’s wife Annette involved since the company’s

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Best Wishes To Garyowen Transport, From

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

inception and their son Jamie now also involved.

Gary hopes the landscape becomes more favourable for the next generation as the conditions that prevail are not ideal: “My worry is that he will regret joining the company. The hours are very long and there is no life outside of it for a young lad. His football is suffering already – that’s the worst part of it. People don’t realise the sacrifices we have to make in this industry and that’s why I say we place no value on our profession.

“You have to try to build your plans around the driving and, often, it’s almost impossible to make any plans at all. You don’t know what you’re going to be doing from one day to the next. I don’t know

Gary believes it’s important to take time to help others

Packed with goodies and ready to call

where I’m going to be tomorrow – I could be in Cork, Kerry, Dublin or Donegal or anywhere in between!”

And the days of haulage being a labour of love are also long gone…

“I’ve invested a lifetime into haulage. It was very good to me in the past but it’s not being good to me anymore. There was a time when people were coming into the industry and getting involved for the love of trucks but there’s certainly nobody doing that anymore. You can’t afford to. No matter how much you love trucks, if you do the figures on it you will see that you would be losing before you start.”

And the workload can be gruelling, to put it mildly: “I’m on the road myself every day and I do 90% of the mechanical work myself at night time. It’s a case of having to do it.

Everybody is being squeezed; it’s crazy.”

We’re sure most of you will be able to empathise with the proprietor of Garyowen Transport, a man who has invested a lifetime into haulage but is no longer getting the return he deserves.

These Scania’s have been there, done that and bought the t-shirt

Gary Lowhan seems to have reached a crossroads in his life!

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Garyowen Transport doing its bit for the greater good

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The fleet is kept well maintained

A quality service The transportation of livestock is a specialised area in the haulage industry that is practiced by just a number of hauliers both north and south of the border. This sector is thoroughly legislated and companies must obtain the necessary paperwork to perform their daily duties.

O

ne of Northern Ireland's leading livestock transporters is McCurdy Livestock Transport and this family run business has many years' experience in the industry. For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the Ballymena based firm and speak to managing director Wilson McCurdy Jnr about the success of the business.

The current form of the company was established in 1996 by Wilson and his wife Martine, who looks after the administration side of the business, but Wilson has been involved in the haulage industry all his life as his father Wilson Snr had over 50 years' experience in the trade, before passing away in 2005. “ We transport all types of cattle

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including commercial, pedigree beef cattle and dairy cattle as well as pigs, sheep and goats. All animals are handled with due care and attention and we always make sure that there journey is as stress free as possible,” revealed Wilson.

McCurdy Livestock Transport operate throughout the 32 counties with the majority of their cargo going to the UK and mainland Europe.

“Our day to day business sees us travel far and wide across Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, the UK and Continental Europe. We have delivered, exported and imported animals in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wa l e s , France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Poland, Austria, and our

vehicles are registered with these countries for import/export.”

Wilson admits that there is a lot of legislation to be adhered too in the industry and he stressed that they are fully licenced to carry out their duties on a daily basis. “Legally we have all the required licenses and certificates needed to operate a livestock transportation business. We also hold full livestock transportation insurance encase of an unlikely accident. There is a lot of red tape to go through, but it is all there for a purpose and it helps regulate the industry. The safety of the animals is paramount and that is our main focus on any journey.”

We also offer curtainsider/chipliner and IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

tipping trailers for UK/Irish work transporting fertiliser /woodchip/ sawdust/peat/bark animal minerals and feeds throughout the UK and Ireland on a daily basis.

To carry out their duties, a state of the art fleet is required and to this end, there are few that rival the fleet at McCurdy's, which is kept in pristine condition at all times. “Our modern

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

fleet of livestock trailers are fitted with the latest technology including lifting floors, temperature controlled systems and all animals have access to fresh water throughout the journey.

“The trailers can be modified so that we can take backloads such as cars, freight and livestock home with us. Each trailer will be hosed them meticulously and then we can lower the floors if needed to allow for any sort of curtainsider and temperature controlled work we get. We tend to upgrade the fleet as often as we can to ensure that we keep all trucks and trailers modern. Everything is well maintained in order to avoid any necessary downtime as there is no room for errors in this industry.”

Experience is a vital commodity in the haulage industry and Wilson and the team at McCurdy's have this in abundance, which can give the customer the peace of

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J.N.K. Components Ltd. THE CAR, COMMERCIAL & TRACTOR PARTS PEOPLE Main Agents for:

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Tel: 028-256 48111 Fax: 028 256 42422 Email: ray@jnkcomponents.co.uk

www.jnkcomponents.co.uk Best Wishes To McCurdy Livestock Transport SPECIALISTS IN ALL

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Best Wishes To McCurdy Livestock Transport

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To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 58

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Scania is the make of truck preferred by the company

mind knowing that their animals are in capable hands. “ We have many years experience within the livestock transport industry and we are known throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe for delivering a very high standard of service time and time again with trained and competent drivers and up to date modern fleet of vehicles. Most of our drivers have been with us many years and they are very professional at what they do. They are the ones representing the company on a daily basis and the customers know them first hand.”

Wilson admits that attracting new business has to be dealt with a cautious approach as is dictated by the current economic climate. “We are

always looking for more work, but at the same time, you just can't take on any job. At the end of the day, it's all about getting paid and we would carry out background checks on any potential new customers.

“We are happy with the direction that the company is heading in at the moment, but I would like to expand the fleet in the near future, but that is not easily done at the moment as rates have dropped, while the price of fuel has gone through the roof, particularly in the north. These are tough times, but we are confident that with the level of service that we provide and our experience, we can carry on for some time yet!

CONTACT DETAILS McCurdy Livestock Transport Wilson McCurdy (Jnr) 229 Carnlough Road Broughshane Ballymena County Antrim Northern Ireland BT42 4LX M: +44 (0) 77 1103 1032 T: +44 (0) 28 2568 4249 F: +44 (0) 28 2568 4599 E: wmccurdy@dsl.pipex.com

All trailers are fitted with lifting floors and temperature controlled systems

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To Loughbeg Garage From

Wishing Continued Success To Loughbeg Garage From

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Best Wishes To Loughbeg Garage From

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J.N.K. Components Ltd. THE CAR, COMMERCIAL & TRACTOR PARTS PEOPLE Main Agents for:

SACHS CLUTCHES, EXCELUBE OIL, VARTA BATTERIES, HELLA LIGHTS & DONALDSON FILTERS Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT42 3HB

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www.jnkcomponents.co.uk Best Wishes To Loughbeg Garage

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Graffin Transport GT Services (NI) Limited Unit 10 Steeple Industrial Estate Antrim BT41 1AB

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Tel: 003531 8644915/8443109 Continued Best Wishes to Loughbeg Garage IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

An unrivalled commercial vehicle service For almost four decades, Loughbeg Garage Ltd. in Toomebridge, County Antrim has been providing an exceptional service to commercial vehicle operators in the locality - and further afield. They opened a brand new workshop shortly before Christmas so we decided to pay them a longoverdue visit…

S

pecialists in servicing and repairing all kinds of commercial vehicles, this family-run business is pretty much in a league of its own. Irish Trucker called into the wellappointed facility on Loughbeg Road and had a chat with Clare McErlain, daughter of founder and MD Cathal McErlain.

There are very few garages on the island as dependable as Loughbeg Garage – the County Antrim-based commercial vehicle service and repair specialists. Operating out of a brand spanking new state-of-the-art workshop in Toomebridge and employing a crew of fully-qualified mechanics who are wellversed in all aspects of commercial vehicles - using the very latest diagnostic, repair and servicing equipment – Loughbeg Garage has deservedly forged an unrivalled reputation for itself as one of Northern Ireland’s finest truck garages.

The business was established by current proprietor and managing director Cathal McErlain 38 years ago. His daughter Clare notes: “He served his time in the industry before deciding to start up his own business from scratch 38 years ago. We specialise in all commercial vehicle service and repairs as well as some sales and also offer a 24-hour breakdown / recovery service.”

The new state-of-the-art workshop was built last year and opened in IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

December, providing cutting-edge services to the local haulage community.

On one side of the workshop is a lorry dynamometer system for testing the horsepower of trucks. There is also a ful drive-through lane where commercial vehicles can undergo a complete overhaul with the absolute minimum of fuss.

One of the beauties of the new facility is that a number of trucks can be accommodated at the same time, which is vital in this line of work as time is money to operators and they need their vehicles back on the road in perfect working order as quickly as possible.

Ease of access is another definite strength of Loughbeg Garage: “We’re just off the main Belfast / Derry Road, which is a main thoroughfare and we’re also close to Ballymena, so we’re in a good location with no shortage of passing traffic. Thankfully, we are very busy at the minute,” Clare confirms.

As a 100% independent garage without any ties to any of the main manufacturers, Loughbeg Garage is ideally positioned to provide an excellent service to all vehicle types.

“We mainly work on HGVs but we also do some van and trailer work, if asked,” says Clare. “We would be known as Scania specialists but our independent status enables us to work on literally any type of truck.”

Boasting a wide range of customers

from both north and south of the border, Loughbeg Garage provides a personal touch at all times, with each customer treated on an individual, one-to-one basis. Each job – no matter how big or small – is treated as a priority one and a friendly, family atmosphere permeates every facet of the operation.

Continuity is another major plus: “As well as Cathal and his son John, we also have three other lads who have given more or less their entire working careers to the company,” Clare notes. “Two of them started here as apprentices – they learned the ropes here and are an important part of the team.

“We are very versatile with regards to the work we do and we can handle literally any job on a truck – from testing and servicing to the most complicated repair work. We have all the latest diagnostic equipment and will find the solution to any problem, mechanical or electrical.

“All our repairs are carried out quickly and efficiently and we do everything we can to get the lorry back on the road as quickly as possible. The garage is opened from 8:30 am until 6:00pm Monday – Friday but in this line of work you often have to work out of hours and we have a 24-hour breakdown service.”

Once you provide a quality service at a reasonable price, operators will be more than happy to do business. What does Clare think has been the secret or

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Loughbeg Garage’s success over the past four decades or so? “I’d say an awful lot of it is down to the exceptional standard of work.

We’ve always prided ourselves on the quality of our workmanship and that has been consistently strong since the business started. We’ve also built up very good relationships with customers and we get a lot of repeat business – which again is due to the quality of the work.

“We’re also constantly reinvesting in the latest equipment and training.

We’re all very down-toearth people here and we like to think we’re very easy to deal with.

As a family-owned business we place a lot of importance on personal relationships and we deal openly with everybody from the one-man band to the large operator. We have respect for everybody who comes through the doors and we try to look after them all.”

It’s a good philosophy that has served Cathal McErlain and his family well and Clare is confident that they can continue to thrive: “Thankfully, even though things have been bad across the industry, out workload has actually increased. The new workshop is a response to that demand and the dynamometer, which is the only one in Northern Ireland, is an excellent piece of equipment for fault-finding.

“New legislation means that operators now have to keep records regarding safety checks and maintenance, and we can help out with those. No matter how quiet the

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economy gets, there will always be lorries on the road and we see room to keep growing.

“The workshop was built to meet demand and we are here to look after people. Everything we have ever done has been 100% and you can be guaranteed that there will be no half measures with Loughbeg Garage.”

A whole host of satisfied customers would readily testify to that fact!

CONTACT DETAILS Loughbeg Garage Ltd. 89 Loughbeg Road, Toomebridge, Antrim, BT41 3TS. Tel: 02825 871676

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Continued Best Wishes To All At Loughbeg Garage Continued Best Wishes To Loughbeg Garage From

LIAM LAVERTY LIVESTOCK HAULAGE

122 Corkey Road, Loughgiel, Ballymena.

Tel: 028 2764 1441 Mob: 078 3666 2342 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Granting an exceptional service to NI hauliers Brian Grant Commercials / Brian Grant Haulage provides a range of stellar commercial vehicle services under one roof. This company has been going strong for over four decades now, so Irish Trucker felt it was high time we dropped into their Belfast yard for a chat with Gary Grant about the history, current well-being and future plans of an exceptional family business, which incorporates a superb state-of-the-art workshop / paintshop.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Brian Grant Haulage provides specialist haulage solutions throughout Ireland and the UK

Best Wishes To Brian Grant Commercials, From

state-of-the-art paintshop / workshop on site and can provide servicing, PSV, mechanical repairs, accidental damage repairs, full re-sprays and graphics solutions.

Inspections and recovery are also provided for all kinds of commercial vehicles, with all work carried out by fully-qualified and vastlyexperienced technicians, whose aim is to provide a high-quality maintenance service within a timely manner and at a competitive price to ensure complete customer satisfaction at all times.

The bodyshop offers a range of paintshop services from the removal of minor scrapes to full re-sprays, sand blasting, custom colours and graphics. The team at Brian Grant A full range of services is Commercials strives to offer topprovided under one roof quality and professional solutions rian Grant Commercials has been supplying and across the board, which are delivered by highly-skilled paint maintaining all types of commercial vehicles for over technicians working within a fully-equipped workshop 40 years. The stock of pre-owned models available environment. for purchase at the well-appointed yard in Ligoniel, Belfast Through this top-quality service and attention to detail, comprises a wide selection of lorries by MAN, Scania, DAF, Brian Grant Commercials has established a solid reputation Mercedes, Mitsubishi etc, as well as all makes of light in the commercial vehicle industry across Northern Ireland – commercials and trailers. and beyond. A large percentage of their trade is generated Vehicles can also be sourced on demand, while the range through repeat business and positive word of mouth. of services provided extends well beyond the supply of Meanwhile, Brian Grant Haulage which is managed by second-hand trucks: Brian Grant Commercials also boasts a Gavin Grant caters for the full range of transport service

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it would be fair to say the fleet looks spectacular!

needs. The company fleet comprises three lorry-mounted cranes, two articulated hi-ab vehicles and one rigid hi-ab vehicle. Brian Grant Haulage specialises in awkward, delicate and tricky loads, its largest lorry-mounted crane being a Foden Alpha complete with Fassi 600 AXP24 crane with lifting capabilities of 10,000kgs at a distance of 5m or alternatively 4,490kgs at a distance of 11.75m.

Specialist haulage solutions are provided all over Northern Ireland, England and the Republic of Ireland.

Brian Grant Haulage can also supply articulated units, low loaders for machine movement, 45-foot trailers with Moffet Mounty, curtainsiders and flat trailers.

All drivers are fully-trained and experienced and hold all relevant licences to operate all equipment. No job is considered too big or too small by Brian Grant Haulage and a combination of excellent resources and unrivalled workmanship ensures the provision of a top-quality, dependable service at a

competitive rate.

Reflecting on the genesis of the family business, Gary Grant notes: “My dad started out in business in 1969 and we have been in the present yard since 1974. He used to work at cars etc in Belfast and then did some tipper work as well as general haulage and road contracting.

“We buy and sell commercial vehicles and would have up to ten in stock at any given time, as well as sourcing particular vehicles at customers’ request. We tend to keep a fairly low stock these days because of the way the economy is. We would mainly have customers from the North but we do carry out business with hauliers from the Republic as well.

“In the workshop, we do servicing and general maintenance as well as a full range of repairs. We’ve also just opened a new two-bay garage for inspecting and brake testing.”

How many people are employed in the business? “We have eleven here in total – three fitters, three painters, myself and my dad plus office staff.”

Gary is pleased to report that business is fairly brisk despite the plight the transport sector as a whole finds itself in at the moment: “We’re quite busy and we can’t complain. The haulage end is busy and the workshop / paintshop seem to be flat-out all the time. Sales are quiet – we’re managing to sell a few trucks but it’s up and down,

to be honest.”

One of the real strengths of the business is that founder Brian Grant has been in the industry for a long time, providing an excellent service. As such, he has developed an outstanding reputation and is extremely wellregarded. In any line of business, a good reputation is priceless.

“We try to help everybody out as best we can and to give the best service possible,” Gary concludes. “We have an excellent workshop here with stateof-the-art diagnostic equipment and that enables us to provide a high level of customer care.

“We are a family business and we are like one big family here. Our mechanic David has been here since he left school about 20 years ago and he’s more like a brother to me than a member of staff. Michael in the Paintshop is here even longer! We all work together to make sure that all our customers are 100% happy with the service provided.”

CONTACT DETAILS

Brian Grant Commercials, 42A Greenhill Road, Ligoniel, Belfast, Phone: 028 90825488 / 90825555 Fax: 028 90825657 Email: briangrantcommercials@btconnect.com

Brian Grant Haulage Phone: 028 90825239 Mobile: 07768062042 Fax: 028 90825657 Email: briangranthaulage@btconnect.com

Best Wishes To Brian Grant Commercials, From

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A touch of class Tyrone-based J&K Coaches is one of the premier coach operators on the island of Ireland. This family-run business provides a stellar service that is the very epitome of comfort and luxury. Irish Trucker popped into the Ardboe base to find out more about the day-to-day running of the company from co-proprietor Jim Quinn.

W

ith so many coach operators out there, it’s difficult to stand out from the competition. But J&K Coaches has never had any problem in this regard. By offering a little bit extra – a quality of service that’s above and beyond the norm – they have been afforded their customers / clients a travelling experience to remember (for all the right reasons!) for over six years now.

Every facet of this operation is transparent and personalised, with director Jim Quinn always just a phone call away. The experienced, dedicated team at J&K Coaches assists in the careful planning of all journeys / tours, going to great lengths to ensure that all travel requirements are met, whatever they may be.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

At the forefront of the business is an immaculate fleet of luxurious vehicles, ranging from 16-seaters to a 49-seater executive coach which includes courier seat, tinted windows, curtains, seat belts, night lighting, reclining seats, microphone, CD player, DVD player, air conditioning and toilet facilities. These coaches and mini coaches operate all over Ireland and the UK, making J&K one of the most significant players in the coach hire market.

An extremely high-quality service is provided, guaranteeing customers reliability and luxury at a most competitive price. The hard work and dedication of J&K Coaches’ s t a ff has resulted in the regular winning of numerous industry awards. For example, at this year’s

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FPTNI (Federation of Passenger Transport Northern Ireland) awards ceremony, J&K came away with three awards, which were presented by Environmental Minister Alex Attwood: Best Coach Driver 2011-2012 (Sean Hampsey); Best Pre-Owned Coach; and Most Improved Operations.

J&K stands for Jim and Kevin (Quinn). The first-mentioned reflects on the genesis of the family business in the small, close-knit parish of Ardboe: “Myself and my brother Kevin

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started the business up in October 2005, originally as a taxi firm. We both actually came from engineering backgrounds – I did that for 16 years – but we were always employees and wanted to do something on our own.”

It has proven to be a successful move as the new company soon sprouted wings. “The business developed quickly,” Jim continues. “We moved into the coach market in May 2006 and I sat my exams and got the CPC etc. We’ve never looked back since then and, thankfully, the business has gone from strength to strength.”

As for the kind of work carried out, Jim gave me a brief breakdown of where J&K Coaches are at: “We do a lot of school work and also work with a lot of sports teams and bodies. We had five men and two vehicles over at the Olympics and we also started doing European work in March of this year. We do school trips, skiing trips, tours, concerts etc.

“A lot of it is sport. In soccer, we work at the Milk Cup and also for Derry City soccer club. We transport the Belfast Giants ice hockey team and the Ulster rugby team. On the GAA front, which is very close to our hearts, we also provide official transport for the Fermanagh and Tyrone county teams.

It’s a real honour to work with these and we also invest a lot into the GAA in terms of sponsorships, signs, fundraising etc.”

As for the sophisticated, state-of-the-art fleet of coaches at his disposal, Jim notes: “We operate nine vehicles at present.

We renew the fleet year-on-year and go up in years. All the models at present are 2008 or older. You have to crawl before you can walk, but we’re very happy with the fleet, even though we’re always looking to improve it.

“Last year we bought in 2005 and 2007 Scania executive coaches for long-haul trips and sports work with the Belfast Giants and Derry City soccer teams. They are good, reliable, comfortable buses. We also have a Volkswagen 17-seater minibus and a Crafter for business clients / airport transfers etc.

“We expanded the business last year and that was purely down to customer demand. Thankfully, there appears to be very strong demand for our vehicles and our services.”

So the decision to set up J&K Coaches was an inspired move? “So far, it has worked out. I was an employee for 20odd years and I got to the stage where I wanted to see what it would be like to be my own boss. T h e r e ’s added responsibility, obviously, but it’s going well.

“We like what we’re doing. Every day is different and you learn something new every day, which you can then use to good effect in managing the business down the line. You build up a very good rapport with people but at the same time, you have to maintain a respectful distance from your clients and afford them their private space at all times.”

In terms of employees, J&K Coaches provides gainful employment to six people full-time plus the directors, Jim and Kevin Quinn. Including part-time workers, 18 are employed.

As for the difficulties created by spiralling fuel costs, Jim states: “It’s not easy trying to pass it on to the customer because we realise that they are getting it tight as well. But it has placed a real strain on us, especially for work that is already contract-priced. You just have to hope that the price of diesel stabilises.

“We’re using fuel cards and at one stage I was receiving two or three text messages a day alerting me to price increases, but it’s down to once a week now.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

“I’m pricing 2013 work already and t h a t ’s subject to fuel. ‘Subject to change’ is a line that you don’t want to add in there but we have no option.”

Looking to the future, Jim Quinn concludes: “We are scouring the market looking to upgrade our fleet again. We expanded the fleet by three last year and we want to keep it as fresh as possible. Year on year you try to raise the bar and we hope that in five years or so we might be looking at bringing in new vehicles.

“We want to keep the customers we already have and also bring in new ones. To date, we have thought everything through and have done it stage by stage. We approached

clients and signed them up, bought the vehicles to fulfil those contracts and brought in experienced staff.

“The next logical step is to purchase our own premises where we can bring everything together under one roof and carry out our own vehicle maintenance.

“Common sense has got us to where we are today and I believe this industry is on the up. We don’t sit around waiting for the phone to ring.

We are proactive. We go out and look for business.”

It has certainly been a successful story so far for J&K Coaches. They are clearly doing something right!

CONTACT DETAILS J&K Coaches, Unit 2, Ardboe Business Park, Ardboe, Tyrone, BT71 5BJ United Kingdom.

Tel: 028 867 37776 email: info@jandkcoaches.com

Best Wishes To J&K Coaches, From

Suppliers of Cleaning Products For Trucks, Coaches & Cars Detergents, Soap & Valeting

Main supplier for cleaning products and chemicals in the UK & Ireland.

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Wishing J&K Coaches Continued Success In The Future

40 MOUSETOWN ROAD, COALISLAND, CO. TYRONE BT71 4PJ Tel/Fax: 028 8774 7258 (when dialling from ROI replace 028 with 048) Mobile: 07774 676667 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

69

The company specialises in tankers, tippers and blowers

Scania and DAF are Robert’s preferred choice of truck

A decade of success To celebrate ten years in business is a landmark occasion and it takes on an even more significance in the current economic climate.

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usinesses have struggled to survive during these testing times, but for the haulage industry it has been tougher than most as rising fuel costs and reduced rates have seen the transport sector become arguably the toughest sector to be involved in.

The fleet is kept in immaculate condition

However, one haulage firm has strived to overcome all the obstacles and using the motto that 'you just have to get on with it' has stood Robert Scates Haulage in good stead over the past decade.

This year the Belfast based company celebrates its tenth

anniversary and for this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the business and speak to managing director Robert Scates about the success that this growing concern has achieved during those intervening years.

Robert started the business from humble beginnings and he revealed that the help of his former boss played a big part in getting the business up and running. “I use to work for a man called Tony Forsyth and he owned Irish Feeds. He decided to sell up the business and he asked me would I be interested in buying the truck I drove and following careful consideration and discussions

The company is based in Belfast docks

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Robert set up the business ten years ago

with my family, I decided to go for it.

“Our main aim is to look after our customers and this “Tony helped me get some work off Irish Feeds and that's means making sure that they get their orders on time without where it all started from. As the work load grew, I expanded any hassle.” the fleet and it now consists of five trucks and one rigid.

Specialising in animal feeds means that Robert and his “We've a wide range of trailers that include tautliners, bulk, team are hitting their busy period over the coming months. flat, blowing and tippers. Most of our work is specialised in “The winter is our busiest period as you can imagine. that we do blow a lot of loads, which not many companies Farmers need their feeds and we are here to provide a top do.” quality service to all.”

Robert Scates Haulage is based in Belfast Docks; an ideal Apart from the animal feeds, the company also supply a location for the company as 70% of their work is done in the service transporting salt for companies and this too is north's capital. busiest in the winter as councils maintain their roads, while “Most of our work entails picking up loads from the docks and bringing to stores and then to mills around the north. It is mainly animal feeds that we are hauling, but they are many various types.

“We would also do some work down south and would be in Cork and Kerry a good bit where we distribute bulk powders to customers.”

Robert recently purchased a new blowing trailer to keep up with the demand of their workload, while all the fleet is kept in pristine condition. “The fleet is kept well maintained and I would try to upgrade every few years.”

Every successful business has a good team behind it and Scates Haulage is no different as Robert explained to us.

“The drivers here are very reliable and efficient at their jobs. Most of them have been here a few years Animal feeds are distributed by now and they are the ones out meeting the Robert Scates Haulage customers on a daily basis.

Best Wishes To Robert Scates Haulage

KW Coachfinish is able to offer professional, quality repairs to both the Private and Commercial sectors.

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For all your bulk needs, Robert Scates Haulage can provide the lot

the private sector look after their own areas.

Despite the negativity surrounding the haulage industry at the moment, Robert feels that there is no point in getting down.

“Hauliers are always crying about something. Yes, the fuel prices have gone way up, but what can you do, apart from shop around for the best deal.

You just have to get on with things and hopefully the economy will pick up sooner

rather than later.”

Robert has no big plans for expansion and he is happy with his work load for the time being. “I can't complain, business is good for us and once we look after our customers, I believe that we will have no problems. Over the last ten years, we have managed to build the business and sure if we can continue that growth over the next ten years then we will be very happy.”

Continued Best Wishes To Robert Scates Haulage, From

Agricultural & Hardware Merchants & Bulk Feeds 31 DRUMLEGAGH CHURCH ROAD NEWTOWNSTEWART, CO. TYRONE BT78 4HF Tel: 028 8166 1280 Fax: 028 8166 2087 www.lwsurphlis.com

Best Wishes To Robert Scates Haulage, From

H Downey & Company Incorporated Financial Accountants 65 Eglantine Avenue, Belfast BT9 6EW Tel: 028 9066 2008 | Fax: 028 9095 0693 Email: accountants@ntlworld.com www.accountants.co.nr

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Best Wishes To Robert Scates Haulage

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Experience is the key Longevity plays a massive part in the success of any business and the longer a company is established, the more success it is likely to have.

Success can be gauged on many different levels, but for most the size of the customer base can speak volumes in that regard.

ML Murphy Crash Repairs is based in Waterford

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The state of the art spray booth ensures a quality finish

O

ne such business that has experienced both success and longevity is Waterford based ML Murphy Crash Repairs & 24hr Recovery who has built up a large customer base over the 39 years that it has been established.

For this month's addition of the magazine, Irish Trucker profiles the company and we speak to managing director Eamonn Murphy about the success of the business and what efforts they have put in to ensure that the remain at the forefront of their field of expertise.

Eamonn admits that these are difficult times for everyone and he stressed that the current economic recession had hit his business also. “We certainly would have noticed a fall back on work from a few years ago. People are not spending money the way the use too. If someone gets a small tip on a car, they are inclined not to have it repaired now. Money is not as plentiful as it was and the fact that the banks are not releasing money does not help the situation,” said Eamonn.

“In saying that we are ticking over all the same. We are fortunate to have a good customer base, most of which would be repeat custom and many of who have been with us for years, which I would like to thank them for.

“It is not easy in times like these, but we have been here before and managed to come through it. Hopefully that experience will stand to us and I'm confident it will. We never grew too big and this meant we could keep the overheads down to a manageable effort.”

The business was initially established in 1973 by Michael Murphy and they operated from John's Lane in the city for many years before moving to state-of-the-art premises in Westside Business Park in 2009.

Since Eamonn has taken over the business from his father a few years back, he has continued with the same work ethos of supplying a top quality service to their customers.

“My father worked hard to build up the business, but his reputation preceded him and he always did very well. Thankfully as the business grew, so did the customer base, and the level of service that we provide,” he added.

ML Murphy offers a comprehensive service that helps take the hassle and stress out of repair work. Their experience ensures that the customer can rest assured that the work will be done to the highest standard possible at a reasonable rate.

“We do everything from when a customer gets in touch with us. We take the car off the road, prepare the estimate, organise the paperwork, liaise with the insurance companies and carry out the repair work,” said Eamonn.

The state of the art premises includes spray booth, reception and customer waiting area, while eight cars can be fitted into the workshop at once. Customers can also avail of the courtesy replacement cars available from the business, which ensures that their time off the road is hassle free.

The customer base includes the private and public sector as the local

Best Wishes To ML Murphy Crash Repairs & 24hr Recovery IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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branch of the ESB and the Waterford Gardaí avail of ML Murphy's services on a regular basis.

Legislation is a key area in this business, especially when insurance companies are involved and every procedure has to be properly followed.

Eamonn revealed that the standards to be met in the paint shops are very high and that all legislation must be stringently followed, which is something that they give great attention too.

“It's a very specialised area and one that has strict standards with regards to quality and health and safety. We have a team of highly trained people that ensure everything is done properly. A lot has been invested in this and we are confident that we can continue to be successful. “ We certainly have been focusing more strongly on the painting. It is an area that we are looking to develop

even further. Through word of mouth, the customer base has increased and hopefully we can continue to improve that.”

Eamonn has switched to water based paints and any paintwork carried out is then 'baked' to give it a perfect factory finish and leave the vehicle looking better than it had before the accident.

Assistance is available twenty four hours a day seven days a week all year round be they local or new customers.

With one telephone call to one of the team members an instant response will be achieved no matter where the break down occurs.

“The call outs are an area that we have worked on in recent years. No matter how small a problem, someone will go out to assist the customer, whether it is a flat tyre or something more serious, we are always on call.”

The recovery industry is a business

that has to be well regulated in order for a company to follow the proper procedures and Eamonn said there has to be certain criteria met for a company to be allowed operate in the industry.

“The garage is EPA approved and the recovery vehicles also meet the proper legislation. We're quite happy with the way the business is proceeding and although we've no plans to expand at the moment, we will always be looking to increase the customer base even further.”

Eamonn concluded by paying tribute to his staff, who he admits play a huge part in the success of the company over the past 39 years of business.

“The lads that are here have many years experience in the industry and that is vital to the success of the business. They are highly trained in what they do and very reliable, which is an important feature.”

Best Wishes to ML Murphy Crash Repairs & 24hr Recovery, From

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To ML Murphy Crash Repairs & 24hr Recovery

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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