Irish Trucker November 2012

IRISH

NOVEMBER 2012 Vol. 15 No. 10

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Fingal Transport Services P28

Lee Garage P34

Joe Brady Contractors P58

CMP Road Planing P68

W.S Dennison P78

CONTENTS

2 INDUSTRY NEWS22 CRONINS COACHES

One of Ireland’s premier coach touring service providers

28 FINGAL TRANSPORT SERVICESTop class, reliable value for money service

32 GRS RECOVERY24 hour breakdown & recovery service

34 LEE GARAGE CORK LTD80th anniversary of the founding of the company

38 HOLDEN PLANT RENTALSIreland’s largest specialist equipment rental company

44 DA MILLER & SONS (TRANSPORT) LTDOne of the leading recyclable waste transporters

49 ROBINSONS OF HILLSBOROUGHFamily run business

50 MCQUILLAN COMPANIESIrish Trucker speaks with Contracts Manager Ronan McQuillan

56 MIKE HYNAN COACHESOffering a wide range of services

58 JOE BRADY CONTRACTORS LTDSpecialists in a wide range of agricultural services

62 RECOVERY 24Vast experience in the vehicle recovery industry

65 TRUCKMART LTDOne of the country’s leading truck & trailer component supplies

68 CMP ROAD PLANINGIreland’s leading road planing and sweeping company

72 L2L LOGISTICSProviding top class distribution and logistics services

75 M&T PLANT HIRE LTDLeading specialists in septic tank emptying in the South East

78 W.S DENNISON LTDIreland’s No 1 furniture distribution specialist

82 FLAVIN BUS & CAR HIRECelebrating their 21st anniversary

85 LIMERICK COUNTY COUNCILProgressive and effective local authority

88 PCD TRANSPORT LTDProfessional service provider

90 MICHAEL DAFFY QUALITY CAR SALESCelebrating 10 years in business

93 CLASSIFIEDS

2 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

New Mercedes-Benz Actros more economical thanpredecessorSince its arrival on to the Irish market,local tests have proven the new Mercedes-Benz Actros truck to be more economicalon fuel than the model it replaces andsignificantly more economical thanpredicted.Prior to launch, the much publicized targetfor the new Actros was a 6% saving overits predecessor. Over the past six months,the Irish dealer demonstration fleet hasdriven in excess of 250,00kms in real lifeconditions in the hands of Irish operators.The net result has been that the target of6% fuel economy has not only beenreached but has been substantiallyexceeded.Commenting, Mercedes-Benz commercialvehicles sales manager Fergus Conheadysaid ‘this is an excellent result, especiallywhen one remembers that the tests wereconducted on similar routes with similarload profiles and the fact that the previous Actros held an official record for fuel economy.’

Court blames EC over shipping rowThe General Court of the European Union has revoked an EC decision in July 2008 to approve public aid totalling morethan €281 million to French ferry company Société Nationale Corse-Méditerranée (SNCM) in 2002 and 2006. SNCM, whichwas privatised in 2005, operates freight and passenger ferry services between Marseille and Corsica, Sardinia, Tunisia andAlgeria. Earlier this year, the Marseille-based operator warned that it could be forced to withdraw ships and shed half of its1,600 workforce amid shrinking business and the threat of having to pay back the public aid. The court found that the EChad committed “a manifest error of assessment” by approving the recapitalisation of SNCM as “a measure which did notconstitute state aid". The judgment upholds the complaint lodged by SNCM’s main rival, Corsica Ferries, which argued thatthe funding amounted to state subsidies and contravened fair competition. "At this stage, there is no direct financial impacton SNCM. The court has ordered the commission to carry out a re-examination without prejudging its outcome. In anycase, SNCM intends to appeal the verdict,” SNCM said in a statement. The Transport Ministry said the French state, retainsa 25% stake in SNCM, was also considering an appeal and would examine the consequences of the court’s decision withmajority shareholder Veolia Transdev. Meanwhile, SNCM is also the subject of an in-depth investigation by the ECCompetition Regulator. This focuses on the amount of aid the company has received in carrying out a public servicecontract, running from 2007 and 2013, for ferry services between Marseille and Corsica, and which could also infringe EUcompetition regulations.

Wincanton win toy contractSmyths Toys Superstores, who has branches in Ireland has awarded Wincanton a one year transport contract to handledeliveries to stores. Wincanton will manage the distribution from Smyths’ warehouse in Newcastle-under-Lyme,transporting up to 250 store deliveries a week – of anything from toys to bikes – to its stores across mainland UK. TomStratford, Commercial Director at Smyths Toys Superstores, said: “When we began to look for a logistics partner we had aclear vision that we needed a provider with the scale and flexibility to meet our busy peak periods, such as the run-up toChristmas, to achieve maximum sales potential.” Wincanton will operate the contract via its northern regional transportcentre network, using its shared-user fleet of vehicles. “This allows us to meet the customer’s quiet and busy periods whilemaximising utilisation of fleet assets at the same time,” said Steve Taylor, Wincanton’s director responsible for transport.“After all one customer’s peak is another’s quiet period.”

New Mercedes-Benz Actros

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All-New Ford Transit Custom Reveals its Design andSafety Secrets on First Drive

New Transit Custom Available in Ireland from November

The new Ford Transit Custom which was launched at a drive event inMunich this week, is the latest in a long line of market-leading Transitswhich have sold approaching 7 million units since the first model wasintroduced in 1965.Designed to be the most stylish and safe Transit ever, the all-newTransit Custom has a bold new look and is packed with the latestsafety technologies, as part of its mission to appeal to a broaderrange of customers, including skilled tradesmen and smallbusinesses.While it provides a more car-like interior and driving experience, thenew model has lost none of Transit’s legendary toughness, combiningclass-leading load-carrying ability, impressive durability and attractivecost-of-ownership – with best-in-class fuel economy.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 andsmall, in Ireland since the first Transit arrived nearly 50 years ago”, said Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Directorof Ford Ireland. “The Transit has carved out a niche as Ireland’s most popular commercial vehicle and I am sure that thenew 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 thatthey expect from a Transit.”

Bold new appearance, strong driver appealThe all-new Transit Custom features a bold new exterior which embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s latestpassenger cars.The new model offers class-leading load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features, suchas 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 stylishlooks 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 latestpassenger cars, including the Ford SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with the award-winning EmergencyAssistance 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 carefullytuned to reflect the same natural and easy-to-drive character which customers appreciate on Ford’s car range, togetherwith much reduced noise levels.

Built tough for maximum occupant protection, and extreme durabilityDesigned to be the safest Transit ever, the Transit Custom features an optimised body structure to maximise occupantprotection 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 isthe 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 dieselengine (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 250,000non-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 incorporatingEmergency Assistance function that notifies emergency services in the event of an accident; rake and reach adjustablesteering; Auto Start Stop; Trip Computer; power durable locks; tinted glass; ABS and ESP; and full steel bulkhead withload through hatch.

Interior of the allnew Ford Transit

Custom

TRANSPORT

5th & 6th November 2012Citywest Convention Centre Dublin

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MichelinintroducesAgilis+ VanTyre RangeMichelin has introduced anew range of van tyres,Agilis+, designed to cutoperating costs for vanand light commercialvehicle users bydelivering lower fuelconsumption and greatermileage.The new tyre is calculatedto reduce fuel

consumption by 270 litres for every 60,000kms travelled andshortens braking distance by more than 17 metres comparedwith a tyre that meets the minimum performance level defined innew European tyre labelling regulations.According to Michelin’s Sales Manager for Ireland, TomDennigan, a key feature contributing to its greater mileage andendurance is its superior robustness.“The Agilis+ has sidewall anti-scrape shields that protect it fromdamage when coming in contact with a kerb or potholecombined with eight anti-scrape patches that make it even moreresistant to everyday wear and tear,” Mr Dennigan said.

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IRU keen to enhanceroad safetyThe IRU has highlighted the need to harmonise theappropriate safe loading of commercial vehicles.They also want to take measures to ensuresuitable cargo weight and securing for differenttypes of haulage, at an IRU Academy Safe Loadingand Cargo Securing Seminar organised inpartnership with the Danish Transport TrainingBoard (TUR). Participants emphasised theimportance of actively supporting variousmeasures aimed at improving loading/securingtechniques and procedures, as well as harmonisedenforcement throughout Europe. They alsostressed that high quality training, as provided bythe IRU Academy and its ATIs, is important in orderto ensure safe and secure cargo and effectivelyimprove road safety, which not only benefits thetransport industry, but society as a whole.

Biggest filling station inBritainShell reckons its new filling station on the M25 isthe largest in the UK. The new site near Cobhamin Surrey has a total of 141 fuel nozzles. It alsooffers six high speed heavy goods vehicle lanesand three Adblue pumps. And Shell says it is theonly site on the M25 to sell automotive liquefiedpetroleum gas,At least four fuel tankers will make deliveries on adaily basis. The fuel tanks on site have thecapacity to store more than a million litres of fuel.

Daytime running lightsrequired for new 3.5 t-plus commercialvehiclesOn 1st November 2012 a new regulation will comeinto force for commercial vehicles of 3.5 t or more.According to regulation number 661/2009 of theEuropean Parliament and Council, all vehiclemodels and vehicles being entered into service forthe first time that are type approved after this datemust be fitted with daytime running lights as astandard feature. From 1 November 2014 thisregulation will also apply generally to all newlyregistered models within the European Union. Aroad traffic accident prevention report compiled bythe German Federal government shows thatdriving with lights on during the day improves theperception of road users.

Haulier urges comrades to bevigilantA truck companyowner has warnedother drivers to bevigilant after €1,500worth of diesel wassiphoned out of oneof his trucks whilethe driver slept.Haulage companyowner JohnMcLaughlin of JMLTransport in CoDonegal said gangsof fuel thieves weretargeting trucks bothin Ireland andEngland. MrMcLaughlin’s truckwas emptied of almost 1,200 litres of fuel in just seven minutesas the driver slept in a lay-by in Derbyshire, England, last week.Mr McLaughlin has an anti-theft device which alerts his phonewhen fuel is being emptied out of any of his vehicles very quickly,but he was at a wake and his phone was on silent.

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Sitting prettyAlongside the operational and safety issues to consider when gettingcommercial vehicles ready for winter weather, there are clear costconsiderations, too, says HGV Direct managing director, SimonSmedley."Much of the cumulative wear and tear damage happens to a truckduring the winter months, but the more expensive damage can oftenbe avoided," he said.Replacement parts and consumables specialist HGV Direct hasdeveloped a new cab floor lining product in response to a requestfrom a fleet customer, who was finding that floor damage cost a largeamount of money to put right when vehicles were due to de-fleet. Thecost implications are similar for operators who have purchased theirvehicles, when they come to re-sell.He said: "There aren't many practical floor protection options - cheap

mats aren't effective and are a safety hazard when they slip. So we developed a new system that is tailored to the specificmodel of the vehicle it is intended for."It's a very simple and practical solution. The bespoke, heavy-duty rubber and fabric floor mats are sized, shaped and cutto fit snugly in the foot well, and feature a slip checker pattern on the rubber surface, for optimal safety.The products are available as fully-tailored pairs or as single driver-side items, in a choice of colours and with the option toadd a logo.HGV Direct has also developed a seat cover product for the same customer, which it is now making available via itsbranches and online sales channel.Simon Smedley said: "Heavy duty boots and clothing, as well as snow, rain and mud all cause expensive damage to seatsand floors, so it is worth taking a few cost-effective precautions to protect the fabric of the vehicle and optimise safety atthe same time."Find out more at http://www.hgvdirect.co.uk/catalog/blog.php/technical-area/cab-floor-wear-customer-case-stud

FG Wilson to cut 760 jobsSeven hundred and sixty people are to lose their jobs atengineering firm FG Wilson in Northern Ireland, which isone of the country’s biggest exporters. In a statementCaterpillar, which owns FG Wilson, said the jobs wouldgo across the company's four Northern Ireland sites. 160job losses had been announced in July and it is fearedthere could be hundreds more by the end of 2014. FGWilson currently employs more than 3,000 people. It is one of NI's biggest manufacturers. It said the workers would be acombination of salaried and production employees, as well as agency workers. The company makes diesel generatorsets. Caterpillar is blaming a slowdown in the global demand for its generator sets for the job cuts. It is also movingproduction of approximately 70% of its small generator sets to China, a move to be completed by early 2014."Redundancies of employees and release of remaining agency workers will be complete by the end of 2012 across all fourNorthern Ireland facilities - Larne, Belfast, Springvale and Monkstown."Employees impacted by reductions in 2012 will be offered a Voluntary Redundancy (VR) programme, allowing them toleave the company with an enhanced redundancy package. Resources will also be provided to the workforce to assistthem during this transition period."

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Fuel price reviewin NorthThe Consumer Council is seeking NIviews as part of a UK-wide OFT reviewof the fuel industry. Motorists in NorthernIreland are being asked for their viewson the price of petrol and diesel and theirexperiences of buying fuel. TheConsumer Council has launched anonline survey to gather information for aUK-wide review of the fuel industry.Recently, the Office of Fair Trading(OFT) announced it was examiningclaims about how the UK market wasoperating. They include claims of failingto pass on cuts in wholesale oil prices toconsumers and a lack of competition.The OFT said it was conducting thereview "in light of continuing publicconcern about pump prices". It pointedout that UK petrol prices have risen by38% over the last five years, while dieselcosts have increased by 43% over thesame period. The OFT is to spend sixweeks gathering information fromconsumer bodies, motoring groups andrepresentatives from the UK's £32bn fuelindustry.

China’s Tullowstake up to €230mChina now owns shares in Tullow Oilworth as much as €230m. China’ssovereign wealth fund – which also ownsmajor stakes in BP and Total - has beensnapping up shares in Aidan Heavey’scompany in recent weeks. Since the startof June, the Chinese state company hasincreased its stake in the Irish oil firm tohold shares worth €230m. At present,China owns a near 1.5% stake in Tullow,following its most recent purchase of520,000 shares in June. Tullow - thebiggest single holder of African oilacreage - has close ties with theChinese National Offshore Oil CompanyCNOOC. Last February, it sold a one-third stake in its bumper Ugandan oilfieldto the Chinese. Plans are afoot to spendup to €4.2bn building a pipeline from theoilfield in the middle of Africa to a port onthe east of the continent. The Chinesestate has spent billions in an attempt tosafeguard future energy and foodsupplies. The State Administration forForeign Investment manages China's$3.2trn on foreign reserve and has ledan investment strategy where variousChinese state bodies have entered theequity markets to buy chunks of listedfood and energy companies.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Foreign lorries to be hit with UKroads chargeForeign lorries will be charged up to £1,000 a year to use UK roads in a moveintroduced to boost the British haulage sector. The new £10-a-day charge isdesigned to create a level playing field for UK haulage companies, whose trucksalready have to pay for using roads in European countries. The new charges willalso be levied on British lorries - but they will receive a corresponding cut invehicle excise duty so they will pay no more than at present. Ministers hope toimplement the new legislation as soon as possible and say it will definitely bedone before the end of the current Parliament in 2015. The initiative – which hasbeen welcomed by the Road Haulage Association - follows a consultation on theplans earlier this year and comes as the Government seeks ways of kick-startingthe ailing UK economy. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin says: "Theseproposals will deliver a vital shot in the arm to the UK haulage industry. It issimply not right that foreign lorries do not pay to use our roads, when our trucksinvariably have to fork out when travelling to the continent. By introducing chargeswe will create a level playing field, increasing UK competitiveness and boostinggrowth." The Road Haulage Association has welcomed British government plansto charge foreign lorries for using UK roads. “This is a happy day for roadhauliers,” said RHA chief executive Geoff Dunning. Dunning said: ““We wereencouraged when this proposal was first announced at the beginning of the year.At that time it was suggested that a charging system would be in place andworking by 2014. To hear that the government intends to have a system in placeno later than the end of the current Parliament is a real added bonus. "We expecta charge of about £1000 per year", said Dunning. “This is not enough to give us alevel playing field as regards the rest of Europe. But it is a good start and will helpno end in beginning to prepare the ground. “We are pleased that Mr McLoughlinhas seen fit to bring forward this legislation so early in his tenure as transportminister; he is obviously very aware as to the important role played by UKhauliers in rebuilding the economy, increasing UK competitiveness and boostinggrowth.”

Fears for NI haulage dutySinn Féin MP for Newry Armagh Conor Murphy has stated that move by theBritish Government to introduce a charge of up to £1000 a year to truck driverstravelling from the 26 counties to the north of Ireland fly in the face efforts to boostthe economy across the island of Ireland. Mr Murphy said: “This move will in noway help to boost economic recovery across the island of Ireland. “The Tory ledgovernment have stated they are introducing this charge in order to kick start theeconomy yet it is another glaring example of policy being made in Westminsterwith no consideration given to economic conditions in the north of Ireland. “Tocharge hauliers up to £1,000 a driver per year to enter the north from the 26counties will place a huge amount of strain on already very tight operating marginfor hauliers. The calls for a reciprocal move from the Irish Haulier Association for asimilar charge for drivers from the north will not ease the situation. “Haulage firmsare already hard pressed given the economic downturn and the high price of fuel.To place £1,000 per driver on top of this is simply ignoring these facts. It willinevitably lead to some firms going out of business. “The British government needto exempt the haulage traffic on the island of Ireland from these charges. At theNorth South Ministerial Council one of the main thrusts is to remove barriers totrade on an all-Ireland basis in order to help to build the economy across theisland. Taxes such as this will only have the opposite effect.”

Further oil laundering plant found inMonaghanCustom Officers and Gardaí recently uncovered another oil laundering plant inClontibret, Co. Monaghan. The plant, which was located in a disused mushroomhouse, had the capacity to launder approximately two million litres of fuel perannum with a potential loss to the exchequer of €1m per annum. An estimated10,000 litres of laundered fuel, nine bags of bleaching agent, a car and a vanwere seized at the site. Officers also discovered eight tonnes of toxic sludge ineight Intermediate Bulk Containers. The operation was the result of surveillanceactivity carried out by Revenue's Customs Service and forms part of Revenue'son-going crackdown on laundered fuel.


New Ford Transit Custom Wins ‘International Van of theYear’; Jury Praises Car-like Drive Quality, Low Cost ofOwnership

· Ford’s all-new Transit Custom wins“International Van of the Year” trophy at theHanover IAA Commercial Vehicle Show· Transit Custom garners 117 of a possible 133points, the highest share of winning votes in theaward’s history· All-new Transit Custom is the fourth Transit towin the award, following in the footsteps of theTransit (2001), Transit Connect (2003) andTransit (2007)· Jury of 24 specialist journalists praise all-newTransit Custom for its styling, driveability, load-carrying ability, safety features and low cost ofownership

The all-new Ford Transit Custom was named“International Van of the Year 2013” – to becomethe fourth member of the Transit family to win thehighly prized award – at the Hanover IAACommercial Vehicle Show.The Transit Custom garnered 117 out of apossible 133 points, from the jury of 24 specialist

journalists, the highest ever share of winning votes, and more than the combined totals of the second-placed DaciaDokker and third-placed Mercedes-Benz Citan.It follows in the footsteps of the Transit (2001), Transit Connect (2003) and Transit (2007) to register a record-breakingfourth win for the Ford Transit family in the award’s 22-year history.“Transit Custom is a new kind of 1-tonne van – hard working and practical, but great to look at and great to drive,” saidBarb Samardzich, vice president of Product Development, Ford of Europe.“Combining legendary Transit toughness and economy with car-like design and features was a really tough task, but ourengineers delivered,” she added. “We are proud their efforts have been recognised by such a significant award.”The 2013 trophy was presented following the first press day of the Hanover show. Ford is displaying at the show all-newTransit Custom, which represents a completely new generation of 1-tonne commercial vehicles, alongside the all-newTransit and all-new Transit Connect. Ford recently revealed it is harnessing its global platform strategy and completelyredesigning its entire commercial vehicle line-up for Europe over the next two years.Transit Custom offers class-leading load-carrying ability, including a number of innovative loadspace features such as theload-through hatch in the bulkhead for extra-long items, and the integrated roof rack which can be folded away when notin use. The driver also benefits from the latest Ford technologies like Lane Keeping Aid and Ford SYNC.Class-leading fuel economy with CO2 emissions from 174 g/km is delivered by the improved 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi dieselavailable with Auto-Start-Stop, while cost-of-ownership is further minimised by the longest service intervals in the class attwo-years/50,000 km/30,000 miles.*“The new Transit sets new standards with regard to styling, drivability and load-carrying ability,” said Pieter Wieman,chairman of the International Van of the Year jury. “Ford has succeeded in building a complete new light van on its globalCV platform and with the use of proven driveline and chassis components.“The van has a car-like exterior and interior, driving dynamics which are very close to a passenger car, andnotwithstanding that, is a very functional and practical vehicle. Ford has paid a lot of attention to the active and passivesafety aspects of the new model, and to reducing the cost of ownership,” Wieman said.The all-new Transit Custom will go on sale in Ireland during November.

(Transit Custom IVOTY): Barb Samardzich, vice president of Product Development,Ford of Europe, receiving the International Van of the Year trophy from Peter

Wieman, chairman of the International Van of the Year jury.

Irish Ferries opens its doors for 2013Irish Ferries is giving their customers a head start by opening its doors to bookings on 2013 services to France.With prices starting from EUR129 one way for two adults and car, their 2013 offering includes the bonus of a EUR100booking deposit with the balance payable just six weeks before departure plus a free return trip to Britain for a car plustwo passengers for all motorists who book a return package to France during June, July and August.Travelling with Irish Ferries to France, customers sail on the Oscar Wilde cruise ferry which will once again operate threereturn sailings each week between Rosslare and the French ports of Cherbourg and Roscoff.For bookings and a full sailing schedule visit irishferries.com or call 0818 300 400.

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BIT’S ‘N’ BOB’ST R U C K A C C E S S O R I E S

TRUCKNEWS

in association withMonaghan (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 andSafety Secrets on First Drive

New Transit Custom Available in Ireland from November

The new Ford Transit Custom which was launched at a drive event inMunich this week, is the latest in a long line of market-leading Transitswhich have sold approaching 7 million units since the first model wasintroduced in 1965.Designed to be the most stylish and safe Transit ever, the all-newTransit Custom has a bold new look and is packed with the latestsafety technologies, as part of its mission to appeal to a broaderrange of customers, including skilled tradesmen and smallbusinesses.While it provides a more car-like interior and driving experience, thenew model has lost none of Transit’s legendary toughness, combiningclass-leading load-carrying ability, impressive durability and attractivecost-of-ownership – with best-in-class fuel economy.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 andsmall, in Ireland since the first Transit arrived nearly 50 years ago”, said Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Directorof Ford Ireland. “The Transit has carved out a niche as Ireland’s most popular commercial vehicle and I am sure that thenew 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 thatthey expect from a Transit.”

Bold new appearance, strong driver appealThe all-new Transit Custom features a bold new exterior which embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s latestpassenger cars.The new model offers class-leading load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features, suchas 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 stylishlooks 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 latestpassenger cars, including the Ford SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with the award-winning EmergencyAssistance 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 carefullytuned to reflect the same natural and easy-to-drive character which customers appreciate on Ford’s car range, togetherwith much reduced noise levels.

Built tough for maximum occupant protection, and extreme durabilityDesigned to be the safest Transit ever, the Transit Custom features an optimised body structure to maximise occupantprotection 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 isthe 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 dieselengine (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 250,000non-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 incorporatingEmergency Assistance function that notifies emergency services in the event of an accident; rake and reach adjustablesteering; Auto Start Stop; Trip Computer; power durable locks; tinted glass; ABS and ESP; and full steel bulkhead withload through hatch.

Interior of the allnew Ford Transit

Custom


MichelinintroducesAgilis+ VanTyre RangeMichelin has introduced anew range of van tyres,Agilis+, designed to cutoperating costs for vanand light commercialvehicle users bydelivering lower fuelconsumption and greatermileage.The new tyre is calculatedto reduce fuel

consumption by 270 litres for every 60,000kms travelled andshortens braking distance by more than 17 metres comparedwith a tyre that meets the minimum performance level defined innew European tyre labelling regulations.According to Michelin’s Sales Manager for Ireland, TomDennigan, a key feature contributing to its greater mileage andendurance is its superior robustness.“The Agilis+ has sidewall anti-scrape shields that protect it fromdamage when coming in contact with a kerb or potholecombined with eight anti-scrape patches that make it even moreresistant to everyday wear and tear,” Mr Dennigan said.

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IRU keen to enhanceroad safetyThe IRU has highlighted the need to harmonise theappropriate safe loading of commercial vehicles.They also want to take measures to ensuresuitable cargo weight and securing for differenttypes of haulage, at an IRU Academy Safe Loadingand Cargo Securing Seminar organised inpartnership with the Danish Transport TrainingBoard (TUR). Participants emphasised theimportance of actively supporting variousmeasures aimed at improving loading/securingtechniques and procedures, as well as harmonisedenforcement throughout Europe. They alsostressed that high quality training, as provided bythe IRU Academy and its ATIs, is important in orderto ensure safe and secure cargo and effectivelyimprove road safety, which not only benefits thetransport industry, but society as a whole.

Biggest filling station inBritainShell reckons its new filling station on the M25 isthe largest in the UK. The new site near Cobhamin Surrey has a total of 141 fuel nozzles. It alsooffers six high speed heavy goods vehicle lanesand three Adblue pumps. And Shell says it is theonly site on the M25 to sell automotive liquefiedpetroleum gas,At least four fuel tankers will make deliveries on adaily basis. The fuel tanks on site have thecapacity to store more than a million litres of fuel.

Daytime running lightsrequired for new 3.5 t-plus commercialvehiclesOn 1st November 2012 a new regulation will comeinto force for commercial vehicles of 3.5 t or more.According to regulation number 661/2009 of theEuropean Parliament and Council, all vehiclemodels and vehicles being entered into service forthe first time that are type approved after this datemust be fitted with daytime running lights as astandard feature. From 1 November 2014 thisregulation will also apply generally to all newlyregistered models within the European Union. Aroad traffic accident prevention report compiled bythe German Federal government shows thatdriving with lights on during the day improves theperception of road users.

Haulier urges comrades to bevigilantA truck companyowner has warnedother drivers to bevigilant after €1,500worth of diesel wassiphoned out of oneof his trucks whilethe driver slept.Haulage companyowner JohnMcLaughlin of JMLTransport in CoDonegal said gangsof fuel thieves weretargeting trucks bothin Ireland andEngland. MrMcLaughlin’s truckwas emptied of almost 1,200 litres of fuel in just seven minutesas the driver slept in a lay-by in Derbyshire, England, last week.Mr McLaughlin has an anti-theft device which alerts his phonewhen fuel is being emptied out of any of his vehicles very quickly,but he was at a wake and his phone was on silent.

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Sitting prettyAlongside the operational and safety issues to consider when gettingcommercial vehicles ready for winter weather, there are clear costconsiderations, too, says HGV Direct managing director, SimonSmedley."Much of the cumulative wear and tear damage happens to a truckduring the winter months, but the more expensive damage can oftenbe avoided," he said.Replacement parts and consumables specialist HGV Direct hasdeveloped a new cab floor lining product in response to a requestfrom a fleet customer, who was finding that floor damage cost a largeamount of money to put right when vehicles were due to de-fleet. Thecost implications are similar for operators who have purchased theirvehicles, when they come to re-sell.He said: "There aren't many practical floor protection options - cheap

mats aren't effective and are a safety hazard when they slip. So we developed a new system that is tailored to the specificmodel of the vehicle it is intended for."It's a very simple and practical solution. The bespoke, heavy-duty rubber and fabric floor mats are sized, shaped and cutto fit snugly in the foot well, and feature a slip checker pattern on the rubber surface, for optimal safety.The products are available as fully-tailored pairs or as single driver-side items, in a choice of colours and with the option toadd a logo.HGV Direct has also developed a seat cover product for the same customer, which it is now making available via itsbranches and online sales channel.Simon Smedley said: "Heavy duty boots and clothing, as well as snow, rain and mud all cause expensive damage to seatsand floors, so it is worth taking a few cost-effective precautions to protect the fabric of the vehicle and optimise safety atthe same time."Find out more at http://www.hgvdirect.co.uk/catalog/blog.php/technical-area/cab-floor-wear-customer-case-stud

FG Wilson to cut 760 jobsSeven hundred and sixty people are to lose their jobs atengineering firm FG Wilson in Northern Ireland, which isone of the country’s biggest exporters. In a statementCaterpillar, which owns FG Wilson, said the jobs wouldgo across the company's four Northern Ireland sites. 160job losses had been announced in July and it is fearedthere could be hundreds more by the end of 2014. FGWilson currently employs more than 3,000 people. It is one of NI's biggest manufacturers. It said the workers would be acombination of salaried and production employees, as well as agency workers. The company makes diesel generatorsets. Caterpillar is blaming a slowdown in the global demand for its generator sets for the job cuts. It is also movingproduction of approximately 70% of its small generator sets to China, a move to be completed by early 2014."Redundancies of employees and release of remaining agency workers will be complete by the end of 2012 across all fourNorthern Ireland facilities - Larne, Belfast, Springvale and Monkstown."Employees impacted by reductions in 2012 will be offered a Voluntary Redundancy (VR) programme, allowing them toleave the company with an enhanced redundancy package. Resources will also be provided to the workforce to assistthem during this transition period."

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Fuel price reviewin NorthThe Consumer Council is seeking NIviews as part of a UK-wide OFT reviewof the fuel industry. Motorists in NorthernIreland are being asked for their viewson the price of petrol and diesel and theirexperiences of buying fuel. TheConsumer Council has launched anonline survey to gather information for aUK-wide review of the fuel industry.Recently, the Office of Fair Trading(OFT) announced it was examiningclaims about how the UK market wasoperating. They include claims of failingto pass on cuts in wholesale oil prices toconsumers and a lack of competition.The OFT said it was conducting thereview "in light of continuing publicconcern about pump prices". It pointedout that UK petrol prices have risen by38% over the last five years, while dieselcosts have increased by 43% over thesame period. The OFT is to spend sixweeks gathering information fromconsumer bodies, motoring groups andrepresentatives from the UK's £32bn fuelindustry.

China’s Tullowstake up to €230mChina now owns shares in Tullow Oilworth as much as €230m. China’ssovereign wealth fund – which also ownsmajor stakes in BP and Total - has beensnapping up shares in Aidan Heavey’scompany in recent weeks. Since the startof June, the Chinese state company hasincreased its stake in the Irish oil firm tohold shares worth €230m. At present,China owns a near 1.5% stake in Tullow,following its most recent purchase of520,000 shares in June. Tullow - thebiggest single holder of African oilacreage - has close ties with theChinese National Offshore Oil CompanyCNOOC. Last February, it sold a one-third stake in its bumper Ugandan oilfieldto the Chinese. Plans are afoot to spendup to €4.2bn building a pipeline from theoilfield in the middle of Africa to a port onthe east of the continent. The Chinesestate has spent billions in an attempt tosafeguard future energy and foodsupplies. The State Administration forForeign Investment manages China's$3.2trn on foreign reserve and has ledan investment strategy where variousChinese state bodies have entered theequity markets to buy chunks of listedfood and energy companies.


Foreign lorries to be hit with UKroads chargeForeign lorries will be charged up to £1,000 a year to use UK roads in a moveintroduced to boost the British haulage sector. The new £10-a-day charge isdesigned to create a level playing field for UK haulage companies, whose trucksalready have to pay for using roads in European countries. The new charges willalso be levied on British lorries - but they will receive a corresponding cut invehicle excise duty so they will pay no more than at present. Ministers hope toimplement the new legislation as soon as possible and say it will definitely bedone before the end of the current Parliament in 2015. The initiative – which hasbeen welcomed by the Road Haulage Association - follows a consultation on theplans earlier this year and comes as the Government seeks ways of kick-startingthe ailing UK economy. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin says: "Theseproposals will deliver a vital shot in the arm to the UK haulage industry. It issimply not right that foreign lorries do not pay to use our roads, when our trucksinvariably have to fork out when travelling to the continent. By introducing chargeswe will create a level playing field, increasing UK competitiveness and boostinggrowth." The Road Haulage Association has welcomed British government plansto charge foreign lorries for using UK roads. “This is a happy day for roadhauliers,” said RHA chief executive Geoff Dunning. Dunning said: ““We wereencouraged when this proposal was first announced at the beginning of the year.At that time it was suggested that a charging system would be in place andworking by 2014. To hear that the government intends to have a system in placeno later than the end of the current Parliament is a real added bonus. "We expecta charge of about £1000 per year", said Dunning. “This is not enough to give us alevel playing field as regards the rest of Europe. But it is a good start and will helpno end in beginning to prepare the ground. “We are pleased that Mr McLoughlinhas seen fit to bring forward this legislation so early in his tenure as transportminister; he is obviously very aware as to the important role played by UKhauliers in rebuilding the economy, increasing UK competitiveness and boostinggrowth.”

Fears for NI haulage dutySinn Féin MP for Newry Armagh Conor Murphy has stated that move by theBritish Government to introduce a charge of up to £1000 a year to truck driverstravelling from the 26 counties to the north of Ireland fly in the face efforts to boostthe economy across the island of Ireland. Mr Murphy said: “This move will in noway help to boost economic recovery across the island of Ireland. “The Tory ledgovernment have stated they are introducing this charge in order to kick start theeconomy yet it is another glaring example of policy being made in Westminsterwith no consideration given to economic conditions in the north of Ireland. “Tocharge hauliers up to £1,000 a driver per year to enter the north from the 26counties will place a huge amount of strain on already very tight operating marginfor hauliers. The calls for a reciprocal move from the Irish Haulier Association for asimilar charge for drivers from the north will not ease the situation. “Haulage firmsare already hard pressed given the economic downturn and the high price of fuel.To place £1,000 per driver on top of this is simply ignoring these facts. It willinevitably lead to some firms going out of business. “The British government needto exempt the haulage traffic on the island of Ireland from these charges. At theNorth South Ministerial Council one of the main thrusts is to remove barriers totrade on an all-Ireland basis in order to help to build the economy across theisland. Taxes such as this will only have the opposite effect.”

Further oil laundering plant found inMonaghanCustom Officers and Gardaí recently uncovered another oil laundering plant inClontibret, Co. Monaghan. The plant, which was located in a disused mushroomhouse, had the capacity to launder approximately two million litres of fuel perannum with a potential loss to the exchequer of €1m per annum. An estimated10,000 litres of laundered fuel, nine bags of bleaching agent, a car and a vanwere seized at the site. Officers also discovered eight tonnes of toxic sludge ineight Intermediate Bulk Containers. The operation was the result of surveillanceactivity carried out by Revenue's Customs Service and forms part of Revenue'son-going crackdown on laundered fuel.


New Ford Transit Custom Wins ‘International Van of theYear’; Jury Praises Car-like Drive Quality, Low Cost ofOwnership

· Ford’s all-new Transit Custom wins“International Van of the Year” trophy at theHanover IAA Commercial Vehicle Show· Transit Custom garners 117 of a possible 133points, the highest share of winning votes in theaward’s history· All-new Transit Custom is the fourth Transit towin the award, following in the footsteps of theTransit (2001), Transit Connect (2003) andTransit (2007)· Jury of 24 specialist journalists praise all-newTransit Custom for its styling, driveability, load-carrying ability, safety features and low cost ofownership

The all-new Ford Transit Custom was named“International Van of the Year 2013” – to becomethe fourth member of the Transit family to win thehighly prized award – at the Hanover IAACommercial Vehicle Show.The Transit Custom garnered 117 out of apossible 133 points, from the jury of 24 specialist

journalists, the highest ever share of winning votes, and more than the combined totals of the second-placed DaciaDokker and third-placed Mercedes-Benz Citan.It follows in the footsteps of the Transit (2001), Transit Connect (2003) and Transit (2007) to register a record-breakingfourth win for the Ford Transit family in the award’s 22-year history.“Transit Custom is a new kind of 1-tonne van – hard working and practical, but great to look at and great to drive,” saidBarb Samardzich, vice president of Product Development, Ford of Europe.“Combining legendary Transit toughness and economy with car-like design and features was a really tough task, but ourengineers delivered,” she added. “We are proud their efforts have been recognised by such a significant award.”The 2013 trophy was presented following the first press day of the Hanover show. Ford is displaying at the show all-newTransit Custom, which represents a completely new generation of 1-tonne commercial vehicles, alongside the all-newTransit and all-new Transit Connect. Ford recently revealed it is harnessing its global platform strategy and completelyredesigning its entire commercial vehicle line-up for Europe over the next two years.Transit Custom offers class-leading load-carrying ability, including a number of innovative loadspace features such as theload-through hatch in the bulkhead for extra-long items, and the integrated roof rack which can be folded away when notin use. The driver also benefits from the latest Ford technologies like Lane Keeping Aid and Ford SYNC.Class-leading fuel economy with CO2 emissions from 174 g/km is delivered by the improved 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi dieselavailable with Auto-Start-Stop, while cost-of-ownership is further minimised by the longest service intervals in the class attwo-years/50,000 km/30,000 miles.*“The new Transit sets new standards with regard to styling, drivability and load-carrying ability,” said Pieter Wieman,chairman of the International Van of the Year jury. “Ford has succeeded in building a complete new light van on its globalCV platform and with the use of proven driveline and chassis components.“The van has a car-like exterior and interior, driving dynamics which are very close to a passenger car, andnotwithstanding that, is a very functional and practical vehicle. Ford has paid a lot of attention to the active and passivesafety aspects of the new model, and to reducing the cost of ownership,” Wieman said.The all-new Transit Custom will go on sale in Ireland during November.

(Transit Custom IVOTY): Barb Samardzich, vice president of Product Development,Ford of Europe, receiving the International Van of the Year trophy from Peter

Wieman, chairman of the International Van of the Year jury.

Irish Ferries opens its doors for 2013Irish Ferries is giving their customers a head start by opening its doors to bookings on 2013 services to France.With prices starting from EUR129 one way for two adults and car, their 2013 offering includes the bonus of a EUR100booking deposit with the balance payable just six weeks before departure plus a free return trip to Britain for a car plustwo passengers for all motorists who book a return package to France during June, July and August.Travelling with Irish Ferries to France, customers sail on the Oscar Wilde cruise ferry which will once again operate threereturn sailings each week between Rosslare and the French ports of Cherbourg and Roscoff.For bookings and a full sailing schedule visit irishferries.com or call 0818 300 400.


New Iveco Stralis Hi-Way voted “Truck of the Year 2013”The new STRALIS Hi-Way, the heavy-duty truck of Iveco, has won the“International Truck of the Year” award 2013, the annual trophy of the 25leading commercial vehicle magazines in Europe for the truck that, accordingto the Jury, “has made the greatest contribution to road transport efficiencyfrom several different perspectives including: fuel economy; safety;driveability; comfort and a low-environmental ‘footprint’”.The important award was presented at the gala evening of the 64th edition ofthe Hanover International Motor Show, the largest commercial and industrialvehicle show in Europe."We are proud of this award. The new STRALIS sets a benchmark inefficiency, quality and value for the customer. The vehicle is a true showcaseof our revamped company strategy of being close to our customers, deliveringexcellent products”, said Alfredo Altavilla, Iveco CEO, receiving the award.The New STRALIS Hi-Way: main innovations in briefThe main features of the new STRALIS Hi-Way are the significant reduction in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and theproprietary catalytic reduction system HI-eSCR, developed by FPT Industrial.Combining the quality of the product with a range of integrated services, including programmed assistance, fleetmanagement and driver training for economical driving, the new STRALIS can achieve a reduction in TCO of up to 4% on aninternational mission with a tractor STRALIS Hi-Way over an average distance of 130,000 kilometers a year, for four years.The new STRALIS is equipped with Cursor FPT Industrial engines, ensuring low fuel consumption and excellentperformance. The unique High Efficiency SCR (HI-eSCR) catalytic reduction system, designed, patented and produced byFPT Industrial, makes the new STRALIS the only heavy vehicle on the market to meet Euro VI emission limits without theuse of EGR. The FPT Industrial High Efficiency SCR system reduces nitrogen oxide levels by over 95%. The after-treatmenttechnology of FPT Industrial for Euro VI vehicles is unique and exclusive, since it meets the strict limits for nitrogen oxideemissions, without increasing fuel consumption.The STRALIS Hi-Way comes, in addition, with a thoroughly redesigned cabin. The improved ergonomics and comfort are theproduct of close cooperation with dealers and customers. The external restyling of the cab has focused on improving vehicleaerodynamics and therefore fuel efficiency, and features a new central grille and redesigned “air deflectors” and a newbumper dam design, among others.The vehicle incorporates new advanced and integrated telematics services, improved customer services instruments and themost advanced road safety features, such as EBS with the Brake Assistant function, Lane Departure Warning System, ESP,Adaptive Cruise Control, Daytime Running Lights, the new Driver Attention Support function and the Advanced EmergencyBraking System.To improve driver performance, the new STRALIS adds to the already broad range an offer with the unique "Driving StyleEvaluation" function, an instrument that allows the driver to improve driving behaviour in real time. Additionally, if connectedto the IVECONNECT FLEET system, this program allows the fleet manager to remotely assess the performance of eachindividual driver.The new STRALIS is produced in the Iveco plant in Madrid, Spain, in accordance with the highest standards inmanufacturing quality.

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Councils clash over bridge renamingFormer Irish president Mary McAleese’s role in the peace process is set to initiate a second ’Battleof the Boyne’ between two councils. The mayor of Drogheda, County Louth, said he will boycott aceremony to re-name the M1 motorway Boyne Bridge in honour of Mrs McAleese's peace moves.The bridge crosses over the boundary between Counties Louth and Meath. Mr Bell said MeathCouncil had decided to re-name the impressive 350 metre bridge without consulting his council.Taoiseach Enda Kenny has already backed the move to commemorate Mary McAleese bridge-building role between communities in Northern Ireland. Meath Council had proposed 16 Octoberas a provisional date for the ceremony. However, Mr Bell, a Labour councillor, said there had beenno public consultation on the re-naming of the bridge and he would not attend the ceremony.Meath Council said it would work with their Louth opposite numbers to resolve the matter.

M9 to close for a monthThe M9 in Kilkenny will be closed for a month from October 8th. The section of the motorway between Danesfort andPaulstown will not be accessible to traffic due to emergency road works being carried out.As a result of subsidence, the embankment has to be removed and the road structure needs to be fixed. Kilkenny CountyCouncil director of services John Mulholland has pointed out that non-invasive treatment will not be possible to fix theproblem and promised that the contractor - who is footing the bill - will work day and night to get the job completed beforethe onset of winter. The motorway will be closed in both directions between junctions 7 and 9.

Bridge renaming leadsto second “Battle of

the Boyne”

Pioneers in coachtouringOver the past 55 years, Cronin’s Coaches has forged a glowingreputation as one of Ireland’s premier coach touring service providers.We popped into the company’s Cork HQ and had a chat with managingdirector Derry Cronin and transport, sales and service director NiallCronin about the proud history, current wellbeing and future prospects ofthis stellar family business which operates a fantastic, state-of-the-artfleet of luxury passenger transport vehicles.

Cronin’s Coaches has certainlycome a long way since DermotCronin purchased his first

vehicle back in 1957! The Cork-basedbusiness opened depots in Dublin andNew York before the turn of themillennium and has evolved with thetimes into a thriving group of companiesthat incorporates Dermot Cronin Motorsand Specialised Travel Services.

Recognised primarily for theexceptional level of service provided in

the coach touring industry, Cronin’sCoaches has been honoured with theIrish Tourism Board Award forExcellence and is – quite frankly – afamily business without equal.

Cronin’s Coaches was established inCork city by husband and wife Dermotand Joan Cronin in 1957 and continuesvery much as a family business today –an astonishing 55 years later. Since itsinception, Cronin’s Coaches has beenrecognised as a reliable, quality coach

tour operator.From the word go, the company’s high-

quality transport services were in bigdemand with Irish event managers,conference organisers and thecorporate sector along with Irish andoverseas tour operators and travelagents alike. To meet this demand,Cronin’s Coaches grew organically andsatellite offices were opened in Dublinand New York in 1996.

Cronin’s Coaches maintains a


Cronin’s Coaches can take youanywhere. It’s up to you ...

stunning fleet of deluxe vehicles, ranging fromstate-of-the-art coaches to VIP chauffeur-drivenvans and executive cars. The varied fleet ofmodern vehicles includes private cars, mini vans,30- to 53-seater executive coaches and doubledecker buses, which can provide a full range ofluxury transport solutions including airporttransfers; chauffeur drive; corporate transport; citytours; itinerary planning; group touring; familyevents and tours; transfers to sports events;schools trips and services, etc.

Full-spec, high-view touring coaches from Van

Hool, for example, are the epitome of luxury travel, boastingair-conditioning, generous luggage storage space, PAsystems, cool boxes, tinted glass, toilets and tables uponrequest. These range from 36- to 53-seaters and canaccommodate parties up to 38 - 48 passengers

As of December 2010, Cronin’s Coaches is being overseenby the second generation of the Cronin family: the founders’sons and daughters Derry, Niall, Nora, Anne and Margaretnow oversee the day-to-day running of the company andinvest a personal touch as well as vast experience into dailyoperations.

“We started out in ’57 with a private car and then brought insome vans and minibuses before breaking into the tourismwork during the 1960s,” Derry notes. “We have a fleet of 45vehicles at the moment, primarily Van Hool coaches and afew chauffeur-driven vehicles. We’ve been using Van Hoolsince the early 1980s and the vast majority of our work todaywould be in the coach touring sector.”

Within the Cronin Travel Group is Dermot Cronin Motors inCork, which is a Van Hool agent providing the full range ofsales, service and parts, and Specialised Travel Services,which is an incoming tour operator. “But Cronin’s Coaches isvery much the backbone of the business,” Niall points out.

“The company has grown substantially over the years. Wehave been one of the market leaders in the touring businesssince coach touring took off in the ‘60s, building our businesson the back of quality vehicles and quality drivers and guides.Most of our business would come from overseas, where weprovide coaches for tourists and visitors to the country.”

In terms of catchment area, Cronin’s will go wherever thework is. “The vehicles will only earn money while they are onthe road, so we operate nationwide and also in the UK. Therehas been a spread of tourism nationwide, with most visitorsnow wishing to take in as much of the country as they can,”Derry says.

Tourism, of course, is one of the great products that Irelandcan still offer. “It’s improving,” the MD relates. “And the coachtour market is one of the big performers. There may not bemany iconic attractions in Ireland but as a nation we have agreat deal to offer – we have a history, a culture and aheritage and we also have great people, who are renownedinternationally for their hospitality and friendliness. So there’sbig demand for a sightseeing product that includes meetingthe people. As a product, tourism – like everything else -

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS 23

The Cronin family (l/r): Margaret,Niall, Dermot, Derry and Nora.Missing from photo is Anne

started to decline around 2007 butthere has been a small recovery in2011 and again so far in 2012.”

As they also run their own Van Hooldealership, Cronin’s are in an idealposition to maintain and service theirluxury fleet of vehicles in-house. “Wecan handle our own repairs, servicing,parts etc. and we also provide servicingand repairs for some of the other localoperators,” Niall confirms. “We havethe facility, the knowledge and the partsto provide that service.

“Our own fleet would be maintainedfrom the workshop at our HQ here in

Cork, which is a state-of-the-art facility.We’ve been here since 1975, havingpurchased the site to order anddeveloped it further down through theyears as needs require. For example,we’ve recently invested in a new spraybooth. We also have a full-timemechanic working at our Dublin depot.”

Cronin’s have a great reputation forthe presentation and cleanliness oftheir vehicles, which are washed dailyand maintained in immaculatecondition – one of their manyhallmarks!

The company is of massive

importance to the local economy as atotal of 65 people are employedbetween full time and part time. HugeGAA supporters, the Cronins arerenowned for their work with sportsteams and one of their regular clientswould be Cork County Board as theytransfer a succession of all-conqueringRebel County teams to venues allaround the country.

Niall admits that the high price ofdiesel is placing added pressure on thebusiness: “Like everybody else, youhave to soak up a lot of the increasesbecause you have quoted x, y and z for


Pictured at the Vahool TX launch (l/r): Niall Cronin,Eric Olijslagers, Dermot Cronin, Johan Moortgart,

Freddy Dierckx, Daan Peeters, Rufin Moyens

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a three-year contract andyou can’t add on a fuelsurcharge. You try toanticipate what fuel costsmight be, but this is verydifficult.

“There are otherpressures, too. There isadded pressure due to theregistration platelegislation. A good touringcoach could see tenyears. We could only have250,000km on a coachafter five years and mighthave to replace it at a costof EUR300,000, whichshouldn’t be the case.

“Also, the business isseasonal – about 180-200days from May untilSeptember. Adhering todriver hours legislation isplacing us underpressure. Legislationbeing introduced byEurope claims to be fair toall countries but this isn’tthe case. These rules areunfair in a country whereyou might only work halfof the year.”

Having said all that,Cronin’s Coaches is more

than holding its own andNiall is confident that theywill continue to thrivegoing forward: “This is avery important industry.Once we delivery a qualityservice and keep controlof our costs, we will weokay. The company hasevolved substantially overthe past 55 years andthere is a good work ethicamongst the staff.Everybody in thecompany works very hardand we have a very goodproduct, so we areconfident that we’removing in the rightdirection.”


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Contact Details

Cronin’s Coaches Ltd.Shannon Buildings,Mallow Road,Cork City.Tel: 021 4309090Fax: 021 4305508

Email:[email protected]

Nothing plasticabout FingalTransport ServicesA long-standing contract with Wavin Ireland has contributed to the growthand success of Fingal Transport Services Ltd, which offers a wide range ofservices to its customers.


Based in Garristown on theDublin-Meath border, FingalTransport Services Ltd has

been providing a top-class, reliable andvalue-for-money service since it wasestablished in 1996 by Sean Andrews.

Best known as a nationwide distributorfor Wavin Ireland’s products, thecompany offers a wide range oftransport hire and related services

across all sectors of the industry,including agriculture,maintenance/service, logistics, storage,loading and weigh bridge. With the helpof his wife Rebecca and brothersDermot (maintenance manager) andJoe (storage manager), Sean hasturned Fingal Transport Services into asuccessful business which employ 12staff, including full-time drivers, and

boasts a fleet of 10 and 20 trucks andtrailers respectively.

“I set up the company in 1996, havingoperated as a sole trader for 10 yearsbefore that,” Sean remembers.

“My father PJ, who died in 2006, hadone or two trucks which he used mainlyfor transporting sand and gravel. Ibought my first truck after leaving schooland have gradually grown the fleet sincethen. One of the reasons we’ve beensuccessful is down to the variety ofservices we provide. We’ve had a greatcontract with Wavin for over 20 years,but we do a lot more besides that.”

Fingal Transport Services’ distributesWavin’s products all over the countryfrom its Balbriggan production facility,which is situated a short distance fromGarristown. Wavin is Ireland’s largestmanufacturer and distributor of plasticpipes and fittings. The companyprovides over 3,000 products for thebuilding, construction and farmingindustries, local authorities and stateutilities.

The Wavin product range is unrivalledin scope and quality, covering: aboveground systems, plumbing and heatingsystems, below ground drainagesystems, waste management systems,ducting systems as well as water and

Fingal Transport Services has a long-standing contract with Wavin

Sean Andrewsbehind the wheel

gas distribution systems.Fingal Transport Services provides a full range

of transport services, from flat trailers, curtain-sider trailers, tipper trailers and livestock trailersto general purpose tankers, refrigerated trailersand step-frame flat trailers. The company’s bulktippers can be used for transporting aggregate,cereals, animal fees, etc.

Fingal’s step-frame trailers are ideal fortransporting any abnormal, high or wide loads,while its low-loaders with ramps can carry anymachine or machinery. The company also catersfor farmers with its 6,500-gallon slurry transporttankers, slurry spreading and slurry agitatingservices. In addition, it provides a livestocktransport service and offers all maintenancerequirements for LGVs and HGVs.

Like many haulage firms, Fingal TransportServices was heavily reliant on the constructionindustry a few years ago, but its ability to diversifyand identify new opportunities has enabled it gofrom strength to strength in the face of one of theworst recession’s this country has ever seen.With agriculture on the rise again, Sean identifieda need for a slurry transport service which catersfor farmers whose land is far removed from theirfarmyard.

“I started it as a sideline business about fouryears ago,” the affable managing directorexplains.

“I went into it in a big way after the property crashhappened and haven’t looked back since. It’s aimed atfarmers whose land is a long way from their yard. Instead ofusing their tractors to draw their slurry, we can take do thejob for them and save them a lot of money and time in the

process.“We’ve done slurry runs as far away as Charleville (Co.

Cork) and Donegal. It’s going really well and the wittycatchphrase we have on the back of one of our tankers,‘Another load of bull…!’ has got plenty of reaction, most ofwhich has been very positive I’m happy to add.”


The company provides atipper trailer service

Fingal provides a full rangeof transport services

Sean Andrewswith Stephen

Reynolds(mechanic)

From left to right: StephenReynolds, Dermot Andrews

(maintenance), Luke Andrews,James Andrews, Sean Andrews


Best wishes to Fingal Transport Services Ltd,from

KILDOROUGH

Kildorough, Ballyjamesduff, Co. CavanEmail: [email protected]

Tel: 049-8545760

Continued best wishes to Fingal Transport Services Ltd

from

DEMPSEYMULLEN

A C C O U N T A N T SUnit 3E, Fingal Bay Business Park,

Balbriggan, Co. DublinTel: 01-6904260. Fax: 01-6904558

Best Wishes To Fingal Transport Services Ltd, From

TRUCK AND TRAILER TEC LTD

Contact Jason Keating 083 3996098Con O’Brien 083 4297183

STORERoylan House St. Margaret’s Co. Dublin

OFFICE97 Hillview Estate, Ballinteer, Dublin 16


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Covering the Leinster AreaBest Wishes To Fingal Transport Services Ltd

Best wishes to Fingal Transport Services Ltdfrom

ALFRED MELVINT R A N S P O R T

Ashbury House, Hollystown, Kilmartin Lane, Dublin 15

Tel: 01-8205214 • 086-2583643GENERAL HAULAGE &

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Keep on truckingwith IRISH

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Continued Best Wishes To Fingal Transport Services Ltd, From

The Fingal TransportServices fleet is blue and whitein colour and dominated byVolvo. A familiar sight on Irishroads, the trucks occasionallydo runs to the UK.

One of the company’s biggestselling points is its location onthe outskirts of Dublin. It’ssituated just off the busy N2Dublin-Derry route and just afew minutes from the M50 and25 minutes from the DublinPort Tunnel.

Sean, who is a part-timefarmer, admits it’s a tough timefor everyone associated withthe transport industry.

“The price of diesel is a hugeissue for every truck owner I

know,” he says.“It used to account for one-third of our

turnover, now it’s over half. It’s crazyhow expensive it has got, but we justhave to keep going and to continueoffering the best service we can. Weare fortunate to have great customersand staff, and I would like to take thisopportunity to thank them for theircontinued support.”


CONTACT DETAILS

Fingal Transport ServicesCloghertown,Clonalvy,Co. Meath.Telephone/Fax: 01 835 4777Mobile: 086 243 6096Email: [email protected]

Sean with nephewsLuke and James

The witty catchphrase on the back of Fingal’stankers have got plenty of attention

Sean Andrews set uphis business in 1996

Another load of strawbales en route to their

destination


The recoveryspecialistsGRS Recovery is one of Ireland’s foremost vehicle breakdown, recovery andremoval services. Managing director Niall Graham explains more.

GRS Recovery has gone fromstrength to strength over the

past four years

GRS Recovery (GrahamRecovery Services) hasbeen providing a

reliable and professional 24-hour breakdown and recoveryservice to vehicle owners sinceNiall Graham set up thebusiness in 2008.

Based in Limerick city, GRSserves the greater Mid-Westregion. However, it is notunusual for Neil and his team toattend to broken-down vehiclesin other parts of the country. Inaddition, GRS services andrepairs all types of vehicles, andspecialises in used car sales.The company is fully equippedto handle passenger cars,motorcycles, and both light andheavy commercial vehicles.Niall’s staff, who are alwaysfriendly and courteous, are fullytrained to handle anyemergency.

“We offer a complete

breakdown service,” says Niall,who has worked in the transportbusiness all his life.

“We are on call 24 hours a day,seven days a week to deal withany breakdown which mayoccur in Limerick city, Limerickcounty and the surroundingcounties. But we’re not justconfined to this part of thecountry. If, for example, we areasked to pick up a car inDonegal, we will. In the currentclimate, you’ll go wherever thework is.”

No vehicle is too big or toosmall for GRS. Deploying twostate-of-the-art Mercedes tiltand slide recovery trucks, Niallcan recover any size of vehicle.He also operates a van which isspecially equipped for therecovery of motorcycles. Therecovery vehicles are alwaysstocked with items such as fuel,light bulbs, batteries and fuses,The company is equipped to

handle passenger cars

which may get your vehicle sorted on the spot.As part of its service, GRS can collect vehicles, ranging

from cars, vans and 4x4s to classic cars, from any part ofIreland and UK, and transport them quickly and safely to theirrequired destination. The company also provides storage andtowing facilities and holds a waste collection permit whichallows it to transport scrap and end-of-life vehicles.

GRS prides itself on being able to offer the most competitiverates around.

“Our service is totally professional, efficient andcompetitively priced. For long distance recovery or cartransport jobs, or at particular times of the day, significant

discounts are available on our standard tariff. We won’t bebeaten on price,” Niall insists.

Setting up his own company in the middle of one of theworst recessions this country has ever seen was a bravemove on Niall’s part, but he doesn’t have any regrets.

“It was a big gamble at the time, but there was an openingfor this type of business in Limerick and I decided to go for it,”he explains.

“I had driven articulated trucks in Ireland and the UK, andalways had an interest in cars and car sales. I have a lot ofcontacts in the business and that has stood to me since Istarted out on myown four years ago.”

In summary, Niall iscommitted toproviding a top-classservice andmaintaining a goodworking relationshipwith his customers.And it goes withoutsaying that he won’tbe beaten on price.


GRS provides a 24 hourbreakdown service

CONTACT DETAILS

GRS Recovery66 Henry Street,Limerick City.Telephone: 086 604 3334 or 061 315 802Website: grsrecovery.com

GRS provides atowing service

The Limerick based companywas founded by Niall Graham

MUNSTER HOUSE, 75A O’CONNELL STREET, LIMERICKTel: 061 418214 / 061 413847/061 415637

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Lee Garagecelebrates 80 yearsin businessLooking for a new or used commercial to suit your needs? If so, main Fiatdealers Lee Garage Cork Ltd are certainly worth a visit.

Lee Garage is the oldest Fiatdealership in the country

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding ofLee Garage Cork Ltd which has the distinction of beingthe oldest Fiat dealership in the country.

Established in 1932 by Donald Jeffery and Arthur Good, thefamily-run garage has a long tradition of value-for-money andtotal dedication to customer service. Lee Garage was a mainAlder dealer up to 1945, but when the Alder production facilityin Germany was destroyed by fire during World War II, itbecame a Fiat dealership. Originally located on the site ofwhere Merchant’s Quay Shopping Centre now stands, thegarage has been operating from South Terrace since 1961.The current premises were redeveloped by managing directorFrampton Jeffery in 1994. In 2002 Frampton’s son, and thethird generation of the family to join the business, Gavin,started in the sales department. It is also a main dealer forAlfa Romeo and is a sister company of Lee Auto Centre,Cork’s main Peugeot dealership based on the Model FarmRoad which is headed up by Jeffery Good, joint ManagingDirector.

Lee Garage stocks a comprehensive range of Fiat cars andcommercials, and a boasts a loyal customer-base which isthe envy of its competitors. The Fiat range of commercialsincludes the Ducato, Scudo, Doblo, Fiorino and Punto Van. Ifyou are looking for a particular model, you’ll be able to sit intoit when you visit Lee Garage’s state-of-the-art Cork cityshowroom. If you are not sure what you’re looking for, one ofthe experienced salesmen will be there to help you chose theright vehicle for your needs.

“We stock the full range of Fiat passenger cars and vans,”Frampton explains.

“Fiat is a well-established brand in Ireland and has areputation for reliability, value-for-money and excellence.There is a five-year warranty on all new Fiat cars. We havesomething to suit everyone and as a result we have manysatisfied customers in Cork, and many more much furtherafield.”

Lee Garage has been selling commercial vehicles since theearly 1990s, having previously operated a van rentalbusiness. Frampton takes up the story:

“We gradually built up this side of the business under ourcommercial sales manager Liam Leahy, and by 2000 we wereselling roughly 100 new Fiat commercials per year. This figureheld firm until about 2008 when the recession kicked in”.

“It’s been tough for everyone in the business over the lastfew years, and 2013 isshaping up to be anotherdifficult year. Hopefully thenew license plate systemjust introduced by the SIMIwill alleviate some of theconcerns of the moresuperstitious of ourcustomers”!

The affable managingdirector reveals how LeeGarage’s thriving FiatAutonomy Programme hashelped to offset some ofthe negative effects of therecession. The garage isMunster’s specialistcompany for adaptedwheelchair accessiblevehicles and passengers.Its dedicated team canoffer advice on all aspectsof vehicle purchase.Government grants and


Liam Leahy hands over the keysof a new Fiat van to Daniel

Swagrztr of Hassett’s Bakery


Continued success to Lee Garage Cork Ltd., from

Paul O’Donovan& Associates

Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors

Monahan House, Celtic Business Park, Monahan Road, CorkTel: 021-4321799. Fax: 021-4322486Email: [email protected]

Best Wishes To Lee Garage Cork Ltd From

Garage Engineering& Maintenance Services Ltd

Contracted by:

Patrick Lynch Engineering

13 Wilmount Park, Cobh, Co. CorkT: 021 4811435 M: 086 8200259


Best Wishes To Lee Garage Cork Ltd , From All At

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19 Anglesea Street, CorkTel: 021 4319029 | Fax: 021 4319031

Continued Best Wishes To Lee Garage Cork Ltd, From

Motor Engineers, Assessors & Loss Adjusters

Suite 4, Parnell House, 11 Parnell Place, Cork.T : 00 353 (0) 21 427 8755 M : 087 2580476

www.liamcotterandassociates.ie

Continued success to Lee Garage Cork Ltd., fromGerard O’Callaghan

OUTHERN MOBILITY OLUTIONS LTD.

Ballincrokig, Whites Cross, Co. CorkTel: 021-4391706 • 087-6359838

CAR ADAPTATIONS FOR DISABLED DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS

S

Continued success to

Lee Garage Cork Ltd

from

12 Ely PlaceDublin 2

Tel: +353 1 647 0240Fax: +353 1 661 8006

www.firstautofinance.ieEmail: [email protected]

Best Wishes To Lee Garage Cork Ltd, From

North Esk Business Park, Glanmire, CorkTel: 021 429 7460 • Mob: 087 2500 789 • Fax: 021 429 7458E: [email protected] Haulage Licence No 92085

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allowances are available fordisabled drivers and passengers onthe purchase of a vehicle fordisabled drivers. Lee Garage alsorents wheelchair accessiblevehicles which can be supplied withfully comprehensive insurance and24-hour AA Roadside Assistance.

“We got into this business in themid-1990s and it has been verysuccessful for us,” Frampton says

“It’s hasn’t been affected by therecession in the same way as carsales has. We work in conjunctionwith Ger O’Callaghan at CalvenMobility who are also based in Corkcity. They carry out themodifications and conversions to anextremely high standard. The FiatDoblo is especially suited todisabled drivers because of itsdropped floor for wheelchairaccess. We adapt a wide range ofcar models to suit the needs ofdisabled drivers, but the models wegenerally specialise in are Fiat,Peugeot and Renault.

“We provide free homedemonstrations throughout theMunster region and offer advice onwheelchair accessibility options thatare most suited to the customer aswell as on wheelchair and occupantrestraint systems that ensuremaximum passenger safety”.

Lee Garage is extremely proud ofthe after sales service they provide.The service department is openMonday to Friday from 8am to5.30pm and boasts full parts andaccessories sections. Lee GarageAftercare provides you with backupand reassurance in the lastingquality of your car and offers a fullrange of after sales services forboth cars and commercial vehicles.The garage has a fully-equippedworkshop which is staffed byexpertly trained technicians whocan provide you with an unrivalledquality of service. In addition, the garage operates MenuPricing Programme whichguarantees a fixed price,with no hidden extras.

We asked Frampton isthere any knowledge he canpass us on from a businesswith over 80 years ofexperience in the motortrade. Proving Lee Garageis still hungry and Framptonis not a man to dwell on pastsuccess, Frampton leavesus with one small piece ofadvice: “You are only asgood as your last sale”.


Mark Healy (Trevor Tool Hire), second from left andDonal Finnegan of McKechnie Cleaning Services, thirdfrom left, take delivery of new vans from Gavin Jeffery

and Liam Leahy of Lee Garage

From left to right: Edward O’Halloran (Karwig),Frampton Jeffrey of Lee Garage, Robert Burton (RBurton Electrical) and Liam Leahy of Lee Garage

Avalon provides a single source solution for integratedand converged voice and data communications networks.

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Best Wishes To Lee Garage Cork Ltd

CONTACT DETAILS

Lee Garage Cork Ltd,11-13 South Terrace,Cork City.Phone: 021-4313344Fax: 021-4314359Email: [email protected]: www.leegarage.comOpening hours: Monday-Friday9am-5.30pm; Saturdays 10am-3pm for sales only.

Holden on to topspotEstablished for over 50 years, Holden Plant Rentals is Ireland’s largestspecialist equipment rental company. Managing director Paul Holdenexplains more.


Holden Plant Rentals is the largestspecialist equipment rental

company in the country

Holden Plant RentalsLtd has come a longway since the late

Patrick Holden (Paul’s father)founded a small car andagricultural machinerybusiness in Mullinavat, Co.Kilkenny 57 years ago. It isnow recognised as the largestspecialist equipment rentalcompany in the countrysupplying local authorities and

waste management companies with all theirrequired equipment needs.

Also specialising in contract maintenance,HPR has 900 vehicles in service at any onetime and boasts a client list that other similarbusinesses can only dream of. Thecompany’s success can be attributed to ahigh level of service and commitment to itscustomers and an understanding thatcustomers’ requirements are continuallychanging. As part of its on-goingcommitment to improving its service, HPR ison course to implement ISO 9001, ISO14001 and ISO 18001 BS EN Standardaccreditations.

“We can supply everything from roadsweepers to refuse trucks,” Paul Holdenexplains.

“We started hiring equipment to WaterfordCity Council in the early 1990s and thingssnowballed from there. Cork City Councilfollowed in 2001, Dublin City Council in2006 and Galway City Council, also in 2006.We won a major contract to supply roadsweepers to Dublin City Council in 2008 andsince then we’ve supplied the contract tosupply Fingal County Council and DunLaoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

“We supply equipment to all the majorlocal authorities throughout Ireland and alsohave contracts to maintain their own fleetsin cases such as Limerick and Cork CityCouncils. We supply waste handlingequipment and Commercial Vehicles oncontract to the major recycling Companiessuch as Greyhound, Oxygen, Greenstar,Panda, AES, along with specialisthazardous waste equipment VeoliaEnvironmental Services. Other clientsinclude the HSE and CRH Group. Wepurchase equipment direct frommanufacturers and as such we carry out all


warranty and modifications if requiredin-house,” he adds.

Last year, Holden Plant Rentals wasawarded a contract to supply RefuseTrucks with RFID bin weigh andidentification to Greyhound Recyclingfor their South Dublin County Councilcollection service, this was extendedearlier this year to cover the Dublin CityCouncil contract following theGreyhound takeover, The supplycontract also includes specialist wastehandling and separating plant locatedat Greyhound’s Clondalkin facility,including a number of purpose-built forwaste application Liebherr MaterialHandlers with high-rise cab facility andextra-long reach along with two JCB456 Wastemaster’s and 20,000kgexcavator’s

Appointed an agency for Zetortractors for counties Kilkenny andWaterford in 1968, HPR expanded intomunicipal equipment rental – mostly tolocal councils – in 1989. This end of thebusiness expanded rapidly as demand

for a business that could both supplyand maintain specialist equipmentgrew.

HPR began supplying to the CRHGroup, including Roadstone, John AWood, Irish Cement, Northstone andIrish Industrial Explosives, with loadingand compaction equipment, and later

became one of the Group’s primarysuppliers of vehicles and plant inIreland. At the same time, the companybegan supplying specialist segregationequipment, re-handling plant, refusetrucks, shredders and screens to thewaste management sector.

Throughout this period, the Holden


The HPR headquarters inMullinavat, Co. Kilkenny

www.hino.ie

BEST WISHES TO HOLDEN PLANT RENTALS


You will get a Professional and Efficient Service by fully qualified Auto Body Repair Specialists.

Unit 86 Westside Business Park, Old Kilmeaden Road, Waterford

Mobile: 086 278 3180 24 HOURS Tel: 051 853598 Email: [email protected]

Best Wishes To Holden Plant Rentals

STOCKISTS OF: CASTROL, ALPHA, SHELL & MOBIL LUBRICANTS

ALSO STOCKISTS OF GREASE, DETERGENTS, BATTERIES,FILTERS & LUBRICATING EQUIPMENT

Tel 062-77100Mobile: 087-9817994

HollyfordCo.Tipperary

Continued Success to Holden Plant Rentals, from

Continued Best Wishes To Holden Plant Rentals From

Westpark Motor Co. Ltd.Kylemore Park West, Dublin 10

T: 01 6266152 F: 01 6231318E: [email protected]

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base in Mullinavat – which is just sixmiles from Waterford city – continuallyexpanded to cater for the growth inbusiness. As part of a recent €2 milliondevelopment, a new IT sectiondedicated to supplying and servicingwaste management companies andlocal authorities with complete fleetmanagement, operation management,GPS tracking, contract control and RealTime online fleet management wasestablished. A new parts store, in-house body repair area and additionaladministrative sections were alsodeveloped.

Holden Plant Rentals supplies a

range of equipment to cover all aspectsof environmental requirement,including factory floor cleaners, streetsweeper and scrubbers, large roadwashers and airport runway cleaners.Indeed, the company supplies andmaintains road sweepers at DublinAirport. It is also responsible formaintaining and cleaning the Luas tramline in the capital.

In addition, HPR supplies a wide andvaried range of vehicles to the transportindustry, including vans, crew cabs andtipper trucks. Some of the re-handlingequipment it supplies includesexcavators, forklifts and teleporters.

The company prides itself on meetingand exceeding its customers’requirements, excelling in areas ofservice and back-up with dedicatedarea management based in Dublin,Galway, Cork and Limerick. This issupported by mobile service engineerslocated in each area, ensuring thecompany policy of adhering topreventative maintenance programmesgives customers the standard ofservice and reliability they expect.

Paul is full of praise for his 72-strongstaff who, he says, have made a majorcontribution to the company’s growthand success over the years.

“We have a good team working for usbetween maintenance andmanagement personnel. Twelve ofthem are permanently based in Dublinwhere a lot of our business isconducted,” the affable managingdirector concludes.


CONTACT DETAILS

Holden Plant Rentals LtdMullinavatCo. KilkennyTel: 051-89816Fax: [email protected] company has been in

business for 57 years

Holden’s have 900vehicles in service at

any one time

Specialists inrecyclable materials


DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd. is a familyrun business which has been active in thetransport industry since the middle of the

last decade, specialising in recycling transport since2009. Having started from humble beginnings withjust one vehicle transporting municipal waste tolandfill, the company has gone from strength tostrength over the past few years, providing aspecialist large volume bulk haulage service usingwalking floor trailers ideal for the recycling industry.

A dedicated recycling transport solutions provider,DA Milller & Sons’ large volume walking floor trailershave a capacity of 110 metres (140 yrd3) with theability to reach payloads of up to 27 tonne - evenwith lightweight material such as alloy wheels, farmplastic and dry mixed recyclables. This amounts to20% more capacity than standard walking floortrailers and up to 50% greater payload than bulktippers – with no tipping risk!

Thus, the County Derry based recycling specialistis more cost effective than the competition,transporting more material per load and thereforereducing the cost per tonne of transport. Also, as thematerial is moved with fewer loads it reduces thecarbon footprint of the recycling process, makingDA Miller & Sons one of the greenest transportproviders in the industry.

DA Miller & Sons prides itself on the courteous andfriendly service provided from enquiry to paymentreceipt, aiming at all times to be as friendly andefficient as possible. Targets which have been set –

and are invariably met – include: responding toquotation enquiries within 24 hours; invoicesincluding waste transfer notes sent by the middle ofthe following week; and offering maximum flexibilityto accommodate customer needs.

Recyclable materials handled include wasteelectrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), drymixed recyclables, sheered aluminium, stainlesssteel, copper, alloy wheels, waste tyres and tyrecrumb, sawdust, woodchip, waste paper, farmplastic, compost, waste plasterboard, green wasteand municipal waste.

The company operates throughout Ireland and theUK including daily movements across the Irish Sea.Their strong, robust steel scrap trailers can handleeven the most aggressive of recyclable material -from full engines to steel girders – and DA Miller &Sons also has the expertise to transport a widerange of goods and materials including long, flat andpalletised goods.

Reflecting on the genesis of the company, RyanMiller notes: “The company was officially formed inOctober 2012 by my father DA Miller, myself, andmy brother Glen. My father [David Andrew, knownas Drew] had been a builder for years and then in2005 he bought a six-wheel tipper lorry tocomplement our site clearance and quarry work.

“We took on various civil engineering sub-contracting jobs up until 2008 and then got anejector trailer with double-driver tractor unit. By2009, we were searching for a niche and we knew

DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd. has forged an excellentreputation for itself as one of the leading recyclable wastetransporters on the island of Ireland. Irish Trucker popped intotheir Claudy, County Derry base and had a word with directorRyan Miller about the history, current well-being and future hopesof this stellar family business.



Continued Best Wishes ToDA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd

From

INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIALDOMESTIC

SKIP HIRE | TRADE WASTE SERVICESHAULAGE | RECYCLING

Unit 9C, Newbuildings Industrial Estate,Victoria Road, Londonderry BT47 2SX

T/F: (028) 7134 7788 M: 07710 731 832

E-mail: [email protected]

www.foyleskiphire.com

Best Wishes To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd From

David WilsonFarm Sales

A WIDE RANGE OF TRAILERS AND EXPERT GARDENING SERVICES

36 Straw Road, Londonderry BT47 4PAT: 028 7774 1541 or 07973 674 877E: [email protected]

www.davidwilsonfarmsaleslondonderry.co.uk

Wishing Continued Success To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd From

CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTSREGISTERED AUDITORS

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Trusts & executorships

OFFICES IN Limavady | Dungiven | Eglinton

www.pfsandpartners.co.uk

Best Wishes To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd From

Unit 1, Lynwood Business Centre, Campsie, Derry BT47 3XX

Tel: 028 71 810100 | Fax: 028 71 810665Code from R.O.I. 048

Best Wishes To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd, From

TBF ThompsonMallusk: 028 9034 2001Garvagh: 028 2955 8353

Portadown: 028 3839 3300

DAF Distributors-Northern Ireland

Specialist Insurance Brokers To The Haulage IndustryCommercial Motor, Fleets, Motor Trade

Liability • Business Property

2A Castlereagh Business Park, 478 Castlereagh Road, Belfast BT5 6BQ

Tel: 028 90 705070 Fax: 028 90 709191 Email: [email protected] www.mlr.ltd.uk

Continued Best Wishes To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd

recycling was on the up andconstruction was dying, so we got workon the UK mainland transportingrecyclable materials using these ejectortrailers and it has grown from there.

“We have since introduced the steelbulk tipping trailers to offer customersan additional complementary service.”

The Northern Ireland headquarteredrecycling transport company operates aspecialist fleet of seven walking floortrailers plus two steel bulk tippingtrailers. They hold a waste carrier’slicence for England, Scotland, Walesand Northern Ireland and theirapplication for a multi-regional wastecollection permit for the Republic ofIreland was being processed at thetime of writing.

Since first starting to move recyclablewaste, DA Miller & Sons hasestablished ongoing relationships witha core of regular clients and they arealso attracting interest from newcustomers all the time. “As the tonnagehas increased, our fleet has alsogrown, from one to seven walkingfloors,” Ryan continues. “There is stillroom for further expansion but it has tobe steady, sustainable growth and ithas to be properly managed and keptunder control.”

Bibby Financial Services Ireland isproud to be associated with DA Miller &Sons. Successfully providing fundingsolutions for over 25 years, BibbyFinancial Services opened its first Irishoffice – under the direction of GrahamByrne – in Dublin’s Sandyford IndustrialEstate six years ago, and opened asecond office in Belfast two years later.

Bibby Financial Services are expertsin providing the right funding solutionsfor a company’s needs. Once thepaperwork is signed, Bibby can transferthe funds within 24 hours and thebusiness in question will be allocatedtheir own client manager and credit

controllers who workwith them to managetheir service.

“Our core business isinvoice finance,”explains Bibby’sRegional SalesManager for NorthernIreland NickMcCafferty. “Ourprimary objective is tosupport cash flow forour clients and not havethem waiting 30 daysfor payment from asale. We can look aftera company’s creditcontrol if they so wish.In addition, we providea professional,consistent approach todebt control. As youcould imagine, there isa big demand for ourservice in the currenteconomic climate.”

Nick says DA Miller & Sons is one ofhis most valued clients: “When I firstmet them in 2010, I identified that it wasa well-run family business,” he recalls.“One of the things we look for is a

strong management team and that leftan impression on me straight away. Icommend them on looking to othermarkets after the downturn and I wouldlike to think that Bibby FinancialServices has played its part in helping


Wishing Continued Success To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd.

Expert legal advice for HauliersAccidents & Insurance | Managing Employees Recovery of Debts | Licensing and Registration

Courtside House, 75-77 May Street, Belfast BT1 3JLTel: +44 (0) 28 90 321 000 | Fax: +44 (0) 28 90 323 003www.oreillystewart.com

them to realign their business.”The trucks in the DA Miller fleet are

predominantly DAF from TBFThompson as well as two MANs fromWH McCormack & Sons. All routinemaintenance and checks are carriedout in-house but the respective dealers

handle all the ‘big stuff’. The Millerfamily keep themselves informed onand compliant with all legislationaffecting the industry, with all relevantpermits and licences secured and ahealth and safety record that’s secondto none.

As for the reasonsfor their success,Ryan continues:“While plenty ofothers are offeringwalking floortrailers, ours have avery large capacity.We can loadbetween 22 and 24tonnes, while ourcompetitors mightcarry between 18and 20. So, whileour rates per loadmight be moreexpensive, thesimple reality is thatour rates per tonneare morecompetitive.

“Customers arevery cost-consciousand the more wecan move for themin one go, thebetter.”

Employing a crewof nine, DA Miller &Sons has justupdated itsattractive white andblue livery.Appearance is

everything and a well-presented fleetcan often result in new contracts beingsecured. “The truck is like a movingadvertisement,” Ryan agrees. “Thevisual aspect of the truck is veryimportant and we have often had newcustomers who have followed one ofour vehicles on the road and thencalled us using the phone number onthe lorry.

“Our new website -www.damillerandsons.co.uk – has alsobeen up and running since January andhas also been very successful inbringing in new business.”

Looking to the future, Ryanconcludes: “Luckily we are stillreceiving new enquiries fromcustomers on a weekly basis and I’malways pricing something new.Granted, road transport is verycompetitive, but we know what we cando and what we can offer and we do itwell. We keep our costs under controlas best we can and we believe weprovide a very reliable and competitiveservice.”


CONTACT DETAILS

DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd.330 Glenshane Road,Claudy,County Derry,BT47 4HP.Tel: 028 7133 [email protected] Wishes To DA Miller & Sons (Transport) Ltd


This family run business has been operating in its currentguise since 1990, but its origins can be dated back as faras 1929.

Those times, the business traded as Robinson Brothers andfarming was their main area of expertise.

Plant sales was soon added to the portfolio and in the late 50'sthe sale of four wheel drive vehicles began.

Later on in the 70's, Philip Robinson began concentratingmore in the 4x4 sector and eventually in 1990 commencedtrading as Robinsons of Hillsborough Four Wheel Drives Ltdspecialising in four wheel drive sales.

With so many years' experience in the vehicle sales industry,Irish Trucker had to find out the secret of their success and todo this; we spoke to Philip's son Daniel, who gave us an insightinto the running of such a successful business.

Daniel admits that the market has certainly changed in recentyears, but their ability to meet their customers' demands hasstood them in good stead through these testing times.

“The demand for second hand vehicles has certainlydecreased a lot and the main focus of interest is now secondhand vehicles. People just don't have the money to spend onnew vehicles like they use to have and this is mainly due to thefact that banks are not releasing money as freely as they use tobe,” revealed Daniel.

“Our main problem now is sourcing secondhand vehicles.There is a huge demand for them, but people are not trading inas much as they use to be and they are holding on to them foran extra few years.”

However, Daniel stated that through their large customerbase, they are 'kept going' as many of their customers aresatisfied by the service provided.

“A lot of our custom would be repeat. We carry all makes andas an independent trader, we carry a wide range of vehicles. Atany given time, there would be 30 to 35 vehicles on thepremises here. We are dedicated to supplying excellent quality4x4's. With many years of experience in the motor trade wehave a vast knowledge of Four Wheel Drives and are alwayswilling to give advice on the best vehicle to suit your needs.

“As we are independent importers we are able to giveimpartial and non-bias advice on all makes and models of fourwheel drives such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Land Rover,Isuzu, BMW, Mercedes and many more. We are able to sourceand supply new UK as well as European imports. All newEuropean imports are sold with manufactures warranty so youcan buy with confidence.

A wide range of quality used four wheel drives are always instock, so if the vehicle you require is not listed contact us withyour requirements and we will endeavour to source yourpreferred vehicle.”

The company has grown from then to meet the much greaterdemands of the 4x4 market.

They are also able to offer both long and short term hire

packages of executive and commercial four wheel drives. Feelfree to contact them for a quotation.

“Customer satisfaction is our main priority and it is one thathas stood us in good stead for many, many years. We do ourbest to give the customer the option to come back to us and weare pleased to say that has worked.

“Aftersales service is a major factor to consider when decidingto purchase a vehicle. As a result, we pride ourselves with thefacilities we offer. Please feel free to contact us regarding anyaspect of service and maintenance to your vehicle.”

Robinsons' location has also played a part in their success asthey are ideally situated close to all motorways, which meansthat they are accessible to both north and south of the island.

The reputation that Robinsons have developed over the yearsis another major reason for their success as quality vehicles arereasonable prices are guaranteed. The fear of not gainingfinance for a vehicle can be off putting for many, but Robinson'sgood relationship with finance companies eases that burden.

“We source all our vehicles in the north here and we can tailora finance package to suit our customers' needs. We have manyyears' experience in this industry and we would be delighted tohelp with any queries that a potential customer may have.”

Robinsons: thepeople’s choiceThe sale of 4x4s may have dropped considerably in recent years as theeconomic recession has hit both north and south of the border. However,there is still a demand for the 4x4 market and one of Northern Ireland's topdealers is the long established independent trader Robinsons ofHillsborough, which is based in Co Down.

CONTACT DETAILS

Robinsons of Hillsborough71 Moira RoadHillsboroughCounty DownBT26 6DXTel: 028 9268 2235Fax: 028 9268 9392Email: [email protected]

We’re Here To Help!

Tel: 028 30889745 BEST WISHES TO ROBINSONS OF HILLSBOROUGH

McQuillans lead thewayMcQuillan Companies is a family run business that has been providing awide variety of services to a large customer base for many generations.


Under the company umbrella

are five divisions and

Contracts manager Ronan

McQuillan speaks to Irish Trucker about

the services that each provide, while we

also take a look into the background of

this Northern Ireland based company.

Headquartered in Lisburn, Co Antrim

the group consists of John McQuillan

(Contracts) Ltd, McQuillan Quarries,

McQuillan Environcare Ltd, McQuillan

Skip Hire Ltd and Pattersons Outdoor

Cleaning Solutions.

The current directors of the company

are Johnny McQuillan, Eugene,

McQuillan, Eugene Patrick McQuillan,

Paul Brogan and Cecil Hamill. John

McQuillan (Contracts) Ltd has

established since 1953 and has

developed a reputation for quality,

Wishing continued successto

McQuillan Companies


“Dedicated ToService Of The

Highest Quality”

‘Drumarin' 17 Loughbrickland RdGilford, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 6BJ

Tel: 028 3883 1384

www.afdavison.com

Best Wishes To McQuillan Companies, From

Continued Best Wishes To McQuillan CompaniesFrom

PLANT AND MACHINERYREPAIR SERVICE

G&G Ross, 185 Kempstone Road,Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1UF

Tel: 0751 5659567 or 00353 866082355www.gg-ross.co.uk

Best Wishes To McQuillan Companies , From

BEST PRICES FOR FERROUS& NON-FERROUS

• Waste Disposal• Skip Hire

• Tank Cleaning Services

41 Dobbin Rd, Portadown, Co. Armagh BT62 4EY

Tel: 028 3833 7333

East Twin Rd., Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast BT23 9EN

Tel: 028 9045 7556

Lisahally Dock, Port Road, Lisahally BT47 6FLTel: 028 7186 1151

www.clearway-group.com

Pleased to provide the following services to McQuillan Companies for over 15 years

Best wishes to all at McQuillan Companies, from

MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS OF NEW & USED• STATIC COMPACTORS • PORTABLE COMPACTORS • SKIPS & ROLL ON’S• FORK TIP SKIPS • BALERS

TEMPLEHILL RD., NEWRY, CO. DOWN BT34 2LSTel: (028) 302 68332 • Fax: (028) 302 52828

E: [email protected]


reliability and exceptional service and is one

of the North's leading civil engineering firms.

The ability to diversify into many areas of

the industry is a major plus for the company

as they specialise in road construction and

maintenance, surface treatments, car parks

and environmental schemes, coastal and

inland waterway works, demolition and sports

pitches.

“We would use our wide range of skills to

carry out a number of diverse contracts and

the experience that we have picked up over

the years has enabled us to be involved in

many of the North's biggest projects,”

revealed Ronan.

Most of John McQuillan (Contracts) work is

carried out for DRD Roads Service, Central

Procurement Directorate, various Local

Councils and Education and Library Boards

to name just a few of their clients.

John McQuillan (Contracts) use a lot of

quarry materials and these are sourced from

their own two premises at Budore Quarry and

Edentrillick Quarry Ltd, both of which are

under the McQuillan Quarries umbrella.

Each quarry is certified by ISO 9001:2008

which ensures that all products are produced

to a very highest standard. Not only do the

quarries provide for their own company's

needs, but they also are the source for other

companies as well as local authorities.

“Major investment has taken place in both

quarries in recent years and an Asphalt

Coating plant resides on both sites. Budore

also has a recycled asphalt product (RAP)

facility which allows the blending of recycled

materials, road planning's etc. with raw

materials therefore providing a reduction in

our carbon footprint and emissions to the



Continued Best Wishes To McQuillan Companies From

• Free site visits and quick quotes• Specialists In Car Park Markings• Factory Health & Safety Markings• Coloured & Anti-Skid Surfacing• Cycle Paths & Pedestrian Walkways• ISO 9001 and OHSAS 18001 Accredited• Member of Road Safety Marking

Association

BPF Road Safety Ltd.

Tel: +44 (0) 28 44 831 831 Mobile: 07808262464www.bpfroadsafety.co.uk

T: 028 8775 8381 E: [email protected]

Continued Best Wishes To McQuillan Companies

ROAD PLANING

www.quinncontracts.com

Best Wishes To McQuillan Companies, From

C.McEVOY & SONSGENERAL HAULAGE

TELEPHONE

07748 14871454 Lurgantarry,

Lurgan, Co. Armagh

Continued Best Wishes To McQuillan Companies From

PO Box 100, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim BT38 OBN • Tel: (028) 93351444

KEARNS & MURTAGH LTD.SOLE HINO DEALERS FOR NORTHERN IRELAND

Newry, Co. Down BT35 6AUT: +44 28 30265720E: [email protected]

BEST WISHES TO MCQUILLAN COMPANIES

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a

Feature please contactCOLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923

environment.”

McQuillan Companies look after their

own waste management and through

McQuillan Envirocare and McQuillan

Skip Hire; they provide a safe solution

in the disposal of hazardous and dry

waste. The former of the waste

management division is located in

Antrim in a state of the art facility that

can offer a tailored waste solution

package to its wide range of customers

that include the industrial sector, local

authorities, land development

companies, government sectors and

other businesses.

“Through the years we have

developed an expert knowledge of the

waste management industry and we

are fully compliant with all EU

directives and hazardous waste

regulations in the UK and Ireland,”

added Ronan.

In recent times a state of the art

Analytical Laboratory at their facility in

Antrim and this allows them to carry out

analytical testing and services in

relation to the waste management and

environmental regulatory requirements

of government, industry, local

authorities, land development

companies and small business.

“Full analysis of soil, water and

waste-related samples can be

provided as well as the provision of

the latest sampling rigs. All samples

are transported in temperature

controlled conditions and are

processed immediately upon arrival at

the laboratory.”

McQuillan Skip Hire concentrates on

the disposal of non-hazardous

materials for industrial companies,

hospitals and public bodies

throughout Ireland.

“Our skip hire plant is based at

Budore quarry and we have a fleet of

vehicles that offer a collection service

across Northern Ireland. We also

have a wide range of skips for hire for

domestic and commercial use.”

In 2007, McQuillan Companies

added Patterson Outdoor Cleaning

Services Ltd. (POCSL) to the chain.

This area of the company specialises

in the outdoor maintenance of

premises for both the public and

private sectors.

“This is an area of the business that

we have been developing and we

would carry out work for some of the

North's biggest supermarkets such as

Tesco, Sainsburys and Marks &

Spencer, as well as many prestigious

commercial properties and

government buildings.”


CONTACT DETAILS

John McQuillan (Contracts) Ltd11 Ballinderry RoadLisburnCo. AntrimBT28 2SATel: 028 9266 8831Fax: 028 9266 8833Email: [email protected]

McQuillan Envirocare LtdCaulside DriveNewpark Industrial EstateAntrimBT41 2DVTel: 028 9446 6708Fax: 028 9442 9580Email: [email protected]

Edentrillick Quarries Ltd17 Lagangreen RoadDromoreCo. DownBT25 1ELTel: 028 9269 2582Fax: 028 9269 9244Email: [email protected]

McQuillan Skip Hire Ltd15 Sycamore RoadBelfastCo. AntrimBT29 4JETel: 028 9082 5401Fax: 028 9082 5988Email: [email protected]

Budore Quarries15 Sycamore RoadBelfastCo. AntrimBT29 4JETel: 028 9082 5888Fax: 028 9082 5988Email: [email protected]

Pattersons Outdoor Cleaning Solutions94-96 Hillsborough RdCarryduffBelfastBT8 8HTTel: 028 9081 5559Fax: 028Email: [email protected]


One Limerick company has emerged as a provider ofone of the country's top coach hire firms as MikeHynan Coaches has provided a top level service to

a large customer base for 18 years now.Located in Cappamore, the company offers a wide

range of services and for this month's edition of IrishTrucker, we speak to company managing directorMike Hynan about the success of the business andthe changes in the industry over the past twodecades.

From humble beginnings, Mike Hynan Coacheshas expanded on an almost annual basis as the fleethas grown from one mini bus to a mixed fleet of 15vehicles.

“I was actually working on the buildings operating acrane and at the same time I was driving a mini buspart time. I then decided to buy my ownbus and went to England where Ibought a 29 mini-seater coach,”revealed Mike.

“I kept my old job on the cranes for afew years after until the business reallystarted to take off and we needed toextend the fleet. At the time we wouldhave done a lot of runs for GAA clubs,schools, rugby and soccer teams andI'm delighted to say some of thosesame customers are still with us today.”

The list of services provided by Mikeand his team is rivalled by very few asthey include We offer the followingservices: Luxury Coach Hire, Mini BusHire, Wheelchair Accessible Coachesand Buses, Limousine Transfers, FáilteIreland Member, Itinerary advise,Transport Co-ordinators for large

events, International Licence Holder, Driver/Coach provisionfor overseas tours in Ireland, Coach Breakdown Service,Excursions, Staff Training, Contract Work, Ground Handling,Weddings, Hotel Transfers - College/ School Transport;

Travelling in styleWhen people think about travelling on a coach or a bus, the immediatereaction is of a dreadful, long, uncomfortable journey, but times havechanged dramatically in the coach industry and now passengers can beguaranteed the height of luxury.

Educational Tours; Pilgrimages; Concerts; Festivals;Parties - Short Breaks - City Tours - DepartmentOutings - Incentive Trips - Site Tours and Corporateand Team Building.

“We would provide a transport service for any eventimaginable regardless of size. Word of mouth hasbeen our best form of advertisement and we prideourselves on providing the best service possible toour passengers. We are always looking forcustomers' feedback as we are continually trying toimprove the service.”

Mike Hynan Coaches is a family run business and this helpsgive passengers a more relaxed atmosphere as they travel

with the firm.Operating a park andride facility in Limerickcity has proven verysuccessful also.

“The park and ride isa huge success, whilewe also do a lot ofwork for the hotelstransferring guestsfrom to and forth fromthe hotels. We arepleased with thedirection that thecompany is headingand hopefully we cancontinue the level ofgrowth that we haveexperienced over thelast number of years.”


CONTACT DETAILS

Telephone:+ 353 (0) 61 381700Fax No:+ 353 (0) 61 381965Emergency Contact No:+ 353 (0) 86 2500433

Email:[email protected]

Address:Mike Hynan Coach Services, Bilboa,Cappamore,Co Limerick

Website:www.mikehynancoaches.ie

There are 15vehicles in the fleet

Tyre Importer & DistributorDOCK ROAD, Limerick. Tel: 061-227088 Fax: 061-227461

E: [email protected], Limerick Telephone: 061- 300240SHANNON, Clare Telephone: 061 - 364848

SUPPLIERS OF ALL LEADING MAKES OF TYRES AND BATTERIES

SPECIALISTS IN TYRES • BATTERIES • EXHAUSTS • 4-WHEEL ALIGNMENT • BALANCING

Best Wishes To Mike Hynan Coaches, From

Agri without theaggroOver the last two decades, Joe Brady Contractors Ltd. has forged areputation for itself as one of the premier agricultural plant contractors inthe North East. More recently, the County Cavan based company has alsoexpanded into providing some heavy haulage. Irish Trucker popped into theCootehill base and had a word with Conor McMullan about the range ofservices on offer.


Located at Laragh, Cootehill,Joe Brady Contractors Ltd.specialises in providing a wide

range of agricultural services,supplying both equipment andmanpower. A comprehensive serviceis provided and no project is everconsidered too big or too small. Joe isa hands-on proprietor and he and histeam provide a personal service at alltimes.

Over the years, they have becomeexperts in their chosen field of activity,offering a professional service ataffordable rates. This is why they areextremely popular not just throughoutCounty Cavan but also inneighbouring counties and even

further afield.Conor McMullan, who has been part

of the Joe Brady Contractors Ltd.crew for the past eight years, notes:“Joe set the business up in the 1990s.I suppose it was natural enough thathe would become involved in theagricultural sector as he comes from afarming background himself.

“His father would have been a smallfarmer here locally and Joe basicallybought a couple of tractors and builtthe business up from there. He’salways provided an excellent serviceand that’s why the business hasgrown. There’s a good bit of demandand most of our equipment would allbe out on hire at any given time.”

While the construction and haulagesectors have taken a battering sincethe Celtic Tiger keeled over and wentbelly-up, agriculture seems to bemoving in the opposite direction. Assuch, Joe Brady would appear to be inthe right line of work. There exists avery steady demand for agriculturalplant hire and the Cootehill company’sproven track record for providingsolutions leaves them in a strongposition going forward.

As Conor reveals, the multifacetednature of the services provided hasbeen instrumental in the success andpopularity of Joe Brady ContractorsLtd. down through the years: “We lookafter all kinds of agricultural work fromsilage cutting, baling to ploughingmachines, plant hire, diggers, civilengineering and we’re also doing a bitof haulage now as well.

“All our equipment and vehicles areavailable for hire in the generalCavan, Monaghan and Meath area.This is a really busy time of the yearfor us and thankfully nearly everythingis out at the moment.”

Since turning their hand to haulageas well, the team at Joe Brady & Sonhas been even busier. So how did thisdeparture come about? When didthey decide that there was an openingin haulage? “We got into the haulageabout seven years ago,” says Conor.“At present, we are operating a fleet offive lorries – three Scanias and twoVolvos – and it’s going okay.”

The haulage work is also agriculture-related, predominantly encompassingslurry, bulk and low-loader work. JoeBrady also draws some fertiliser aswell as some gravel and quarry work.

Between the agri plant hire and thehaulage, the company currentlyprovides gainful employment to acrew of 20, which represents asignificant boost to the local economyin these difficult economic times. Bycreating local employment as well asproviding key services to the localcommunity, Joe Brady ContractorsLtd. is proof positive that theentrepreneurial spirit is still very muchalive and kicking in rural Irelanddespite the lack of support of Irishbusinesses from banks andsuccessive Governments.

Joe Brady Contractors Ltd. is afamily-run business with the founder'swife Debbie running things in theoffice. To make sure they never take



Best Wishes To Joe Brady Contractors Ltd, From

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Continued Best Wishes To Joe Brady Contractors Ltd From

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Fax: 049 43 30043Email: [email protected]

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Continued Best Wishes To Joe Brady Contractors Ltd

From

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their eye off the ball, the pair have twokids - Danny (four) and Lauren (two)!

Looking to the future, ConorMcMullan says that, while nothing canbe certain in the current climate, he isoptimistic that the company cancontinue to weather the economicstorm. In a story that will be familiar tomost businesses, he points out thatcollecting credit is one of the mostdifficult tasks of all:

“As long as the money keeps comingin, then we should be able to keep theshow on the road,” he notes. “It’s noproblem getting the work but you haveto make sure you get paid as well. Butthings are good enough at the minute.As I’ve said, this is a busy time of yearand we’re being kept on our toes. Butyou can’t take you eye off the ball. Youtake it from week to week, there’s noroom for complacency. At the moment,we’re taking each week as it comes.We’re just going to keep concentratingon doing what we do best and hopefullythat will be enough to keep us tickingover.”

All the equipment is sourced locallythrough Leinster Farm Machinery,Meath Farm Machinery, MartinsGarages and Clarke Machinery. “Wecan provide the equipment and a driverand will do the work on a subcontractbasis,” Conor concludes.

“We have our own workshop herewith a mechanic and all themaintenance and repair work is carried

out in-house. All the machines wouldbe relatively-new – that’s the only wayyou can make sure that the job is doneproperly. We use modern equipmentand we look after it properly. The oldestmodel in the fleet at the moment wouldbe ’08.

“We also use experienced, competentoperators and our service is second tonone.”

A whole host of satisfied customerswould readily agree!


CONTACT DETAILS

Joe Brady Contractors Ltd.Agri Plant Contractors & Heavy Haulage,Carrisknashoke,Tullyco,Cootehill,County Cavan.Tel: 049 4330202Mobile: 086 8389865Email:[email protected]


As the company name suggests, Recovery24 provides an excellent 24-hourbreakdown / recovery service (and lots more besides!) in the greater Dublin,Meath, Kildare and Wicklow areas – and beyond. Irish Trucker popped intothe well-known recovery operator’s well-appointed new base at Dunboyne,just off the N3 / M50, and had a chat with co-founder Wojciech Szopinskiabout the services provided and the success of the company to date.

Recovery24 is a professional, low-cost vehiclerecovery and transportation business, coveringDublin and surrounding counties. With vast

experience of the vehicle recovery industry, this familybusiness offers a nationwide service operating 24 hours aday ... and at very reasonable rates.

Both private and motor trade customers are catered for in aprofessional and friendly manner, with no account needed.Recovery24 is a 100% reliable, punctual and fully-insuredvehicle breakdown / recovery company with an unrivalledrecord in safety. They can handle all types and sizes ofvehicles, from motorbikes and passenger cars to large HGVs,tractors and buses.

The state-of-the-art, hard-working Recovery24 fleet ismaintained to the highest possible standards and kept cleanand presentable at all times - reflecting the swift andprofessional service provided.

The full range of expert services available includes vehicletowing, crash recovery, truck towing and recovery, roadsiderepairs, fuel removal, wheel changes, battery jumpstarts,roadside puncture repairs, fuel delivery, vehicle lock-outs,mobile tyre changes, long-distance towing and haulage ofplant & farm machinery as well as - from the workshop - pre-NCT inspections, clutch and brake repairs, vehicle servicing,engine work, mobile battery fitting and new and part-worntyres.

Steady recoverySteady recovery

All services are offered on a 24-hourbasis and all operators are trained tothe highest industry standards, theRecovery24 fleet including two tilt andslides for easy and damage-freeloading during roadside assistance, adedicated mobile tyre service van, onesmall roadside assistance van and onespecialist heavy recovery unit forlarger vehicles.

The breakdown / recovery servicecovers Dublin and surroundingcounties, but the company – whichwas established by father and sonStanley and Wojciech Szopinski inMulhuddart, Dublin 15, five years agobut relocated to nearby Dunboyne inJanuary of this year – is fully-licensedto operate nationwide. With truckslocated strategically around thecapital, Recovery24 can arrive on thescene within 30 minutes of receivingthe SOS call. This rapid response time

ensures that clients get back on theroad as quickly as possible.

As well as all of county Dublin,Recovery24 also goes as far asDrogheda, Ashbourne, Ratoath,Navan, Kells, Maynooth, Kilcock,Enfield, Naas, Kildare, Bray, Wicklowetc. etc. They can also collect any caror commercial vehicle from any part ofthe Republic of Ireland or NorthernIreland. Fully-trained by theInternational Federation of RecoverySpecialists, they are also authorisedand approved to collect frommotorways.

The directors go to great lengths toensure that all their operatives arefully-trained and kept up to speed withall industry developments andrequirements. The fleet iscomprehensively-insured and trackingsystems are installed. For customerconvenience, when it comes topayment – which certainly won’t costyou an arm and a leg! – all major creditcards are accepted as well as Paypal.

“Myself and my father Stanley set thecompany up in 2007 and we provide acomplete 24-hour recovery /breakdown service,” WojciechSzopinski confirms. “With our mobilecall-outs we can provide rapidroadside assistance and we canrescue and repair literally any vehiclefrom a motorbike, van or car up to thelargest HGV. The heavy recovery unitwe purchased last year also enablesus to recover larger vehicles such astractors and buses.”

Wojciech admits that – like virtuallyevery other company out thereoperating in the transport sector atpresent – Recovery24 is feeling thepinch of the economic crisis currentlygripping the island: “Business can beup and down. There are noguarantees and you just take it oneday at a time. But we’re kept going.We’re certainly not as busy as weused to be because people simplydon’t want to spend money anymore.Our rates are extremely competitivebut I suppose people are trying toavoid paying for anything…

“With our recovery vehicles parked atvarious locations around the city, weguarantee very fast response times allover Dublin and there’s no job we can’thandle. As well as the two 7.5 tonne tiltand slide vehicles, we also have aspecialist Transit-sized van whichallows us access to underground carparks etc., the mobile tyre unit and themobile battery unit which doubles upas a fuel delivery / fuel removal


vehicle. And, if a vehicle has to be brought back to Dublin,we will go anywhere we have to go – be it Belfast or Cork.”

The reason why Recovery24’s services are so popular isquite simple, really. At the end of the day, it all comes downto providing a quality service: “We do the job right. That hasbeen our way since the very first day,” Wojciech notes. “Wealso place a big emphasis on training our staff and we havea large, secure storage facility with CCTV and full securitymeasures in place.”

Looking to the future, Wojciech concludes: “If thingscontinue the way they have been going, then I would behappy enough. We are not making millions out of this, butwe are doing okay. We are getting our name out there andwe’re always looking at new ways to improve our service.

“We’re hoping to start working with insurance companiessoon and we’ve also introduced a self-service area on ourwebsite where members can get discounts and can log inanytime and input their details, what the problem is andwhere exactly their vehicle is and we will respond to thatimmediately.

“We’re here to provide whatever services our customersrequire and that’s what we’re going to keep doing.”


CONTACT DETAILS

Recovery24,Summerhill Road,Dunboyne,County Meath.Tel: 085 1026629 or 085 7894257Email: [email protected]

Recovery 24 covers Dublin andthe surrounding counties

Phone Mark on 086 - 0875730or e-mail : [email protected]

Continued Success To All At Recovery24from

HUGHES RECOVERY

Call Hughes Recovery For A Professional 24 Hour Service

Call anytime: 365 days 24/7

James Hughes 087-7668297 Noel Hughes 087-1314353Office: 045-891122 E: [email protected]

www.hughesrecovery.com

Best Wishes ToRecovery24

Making its ‘mark!In just two years, Truckmark Ltd has established itself as one of thecountry’s leading truck and trailer components suppliers. Sean Tumiltyexplains more about his Newry-based company.


Looking for a part or accessory foryour truck or trailer? If so, look nofurther than Truckmark which

stocks a complete range ofcomponents, ranging from lights andmirrors to electric coils and reversingcamera systems.

Established in 2010 by Sean Tumilty,

who has 25 years’ experience in theindustry, Truckmark are truck and trailercomponent wholesalers supplying HGVoperators throughout Ireland and theUK. The company stocks all the majorbrands and offers a next-day Ireland &UK pallet/carton delivery service as wellas various worldwide delivery services.

Customers can call into Truckmark’sparts centre in Carnbane BusinessPark, Newry, Co. Down or chat online toa member of their sales team who havea vast knowledge of all products in stockand who will be only too happy to offeradvice and support.

“We stock a full range of quality truck

and trailer parts andaccessories,” Sean explains.

“We have a large range ofproducts for all makes oftrucks, including Scania,DAF, Mercedes, Iveco, Volvoand MAN. We stock only theleading brands of lights,mirrors and safetyequipment. Our range ofmirrors is so comprehensivethat we can supply mirrorsdating back to 1995. We havea next-day distributionnetwork throughout Irelandand the UK, and can deliverto customers all over theworld.”

A family-run business whichemploys four staff, Truckmarkhas established a tradition ofvalue-for-money, reliabilityand total dedication tocustomer service. While oneof its big selling points is itslocation just off the M1between Belfast and Dublin,Truckmark is attracting moreand more customers online. The fullrange of parts and accessories areavailable to view onwww.truckmark.co.uk

“A lot of our customers are buyingdirectly from our website. It’s the waythings are going and an area we aretrying to develop more,” says Sean, whoran another truck parts business with hislate father Peter for many years.

“Our location is obviously a big help to

us. We are just two minutes off the M1and are just 50 minutes from Dublin and40 minutes from Belfast. We are easilyaccessible to customers from both northand south of the border.”

Truckmark supplies parts andaccessories to a diverse range ofcustomers, including SDC Trailers inToomebridge, Co. Antrim andSurefreight in Newry. “We are very luckyto have some great customers and

appreciate all the support theygive us,” Sean adds.

Truckmark stocks a full rangeof lights, including light bars,LED trailer lights, fog lights,combination lights, driving lightsand work lights, rotatingbeacons, head lamps, indicatorlights, side lights and lenscovers. Mirrors stocked includeblind side mirrors, main mirrors,roof mirrors, twin mirrors andwide-angle mirrors.

Truck marking products instock include ECE104Reflective Tape, Reflective tape,BS Marker Boards, ECE70Marker Boards, ADR HazardSigns and Hazchem Boards,Abnormal Load Signs and othermarking systems.

Also stocked are air brakecoils and electrical coils, mudflaps, mud guards, mountingbrackets, automotive cabling,nylon air brake tubing, reversingand CCTV cameras, reversingalarms, HGV customisation,

safety and security, general HGVaccessories, licence and tax licence andtax disc holders.

“All our brands are the leading ones inthe industry,” Sean continues.

“We stock Hella lights, 3M reflectivetape, AVR safety equipment, Unitruckmirrors, Brigade electronics, Britechwork lamps and Boydell & Jacksmudguards. All our products arehousehold names in the industry.”


With the country still in thegrip of recession and fuelcosts at an all-time high,Sean admits it’s a difficulttime for truck owners andhauliers.

“It a tough, toughbusiness to be in at themoment. As well as havingto deal with the recession,transport companies haveto deal with ever-increasingdiesel prices which areputting them to the pin oftheir collar. But all thatanyone can do is keepgoing and try to hang inthere. If truckers arestruggling, it will impact onus. Hopefully things willpick up shortly.

“Overall, we are verypleased with the progress

we’ve made in just twoyears. As long as ourcustomers can be assuredof a top-quality product atthe most competitive rate,they will keep coming backto us.”


CONTACT DETAILS

Truckmark - Online Truck& Trailer ComponentSuppliers in the UK & IrelandUnit 9, CarnbaneBusiness ParkNewry, Co. DownBT35 6QH

028 3025 2550Opening hours: 8.30amto 6pm Monday to Friday

Wishing Continued Success To Truckmark Ltd From

Supplier of Spares To Suit

DAF - SCANIA - VOLVO - BPW -ROR

76 Clonfeacle Road, Blackwater Town, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT71 7HP

Tel: 048 37549575 • Fax: 048 37548883Mobile: 07710 377099


Brigade’s range of leading edge safety systems assist both driver and cyclist.Side sensors detect obstacles alongside the vehicle giving an audible signal to

the driver, whist an external speaking alarm warns cyclists and pedestrians of thevehicle’s intended left turn. Combined with a camera monitor system including side

view camera, vision and awareness in the near side blind spot are greatly improved.

Continued Best Wishes To Truckmark Ltd From

N.W. Kehoe & SonsQUALITY NEW & USED VEHICLES

We offer a fine selection of new, nearly-new and highquality used prestige cars from marques such as BMW,

Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Lexus to name but a few.

18 Patrick Street, Newry, Co. Down BT35 8EBTelephone: (028) 3026 3193 Fax: (028) 3026 7749Email:[email protected] www.nwkehoe.com

CMP is tops for roadservicesEstablished in 2001 and with offices in Cork and Dublin, CMP Road Planingis Ireland’s leading road planing and sweeping company. Director JohnCrean explains more.


Starting out with two roadsweepers 11 years ago,business partners John Crean

and John McHugh have grown CMPRoad Planing into a thriving companywhose services are availed of bycustomers nationwide.

Specialising in road planing, sweepingand jet washing, CMP has successfullycompleted numerous projects for localGovernment bodies, County Councils,civil engineering companies andsupermarkets throughout Ireland. The

company currently operates a fleet ofseven planers and 14 road sweepers,and employs 25 highly qualified andexperienced staff who are committed toproviding a top-quality service.

CMP uses the most modernequipment on all projects, ensuring workof the high standard that is completed inthe most efficient and timely manner.The company prides itself on meetingand exceeding its customers’requirements, providing an unrivalled,reliable and value-for-money service at

all times.“We set up the business in October

2001, having both come fromengineering backgrounds,” John Creanrecalls.

“We started off providing a roadsweeping service before branching intoroad planing in 2006. It was a naturalprogression, really. John (McHugh) is aSligo man and I’m from Kerry, but he’srunning our Dublin office now and I’mrunning the one in Cork. Some of ourequipment is based in Cork, some of it is

based in Cork and the rest is based inClare, which is a good location because itenables us to service the surroundingcounties of Limerick, Tipperary andGalway.”

CMP boasts a client list that includes theNRA (National Roads Authority), Lagan,Roadstone, Coffey Construction, BAMConstruction as well as several localauthorities. While the company hasn’t beenimmune from the recession, it hasconsolidated much of its business byoffering a high level of service andcommitment to its customers.

“We were very busy during the CelticTiger years when there were a lot of roadbuilding projects taking place. But wehaven’t suffered to the same as some ofour competitors because we’re more of aroad maintenance company than a roadbuilding company. But there is a definitetrend towards more seasonal work – Aprilto November is by far our busiest period,”John continues.

“The work that we do is very specialised,especially road planing. A three-man crewis needed on every job to operate a truck,road sweeper and drag trailer.”

Road planers provide the speed ofdelivery, level of precision and accuracythat are not possible using older methods.Road planers are ideally suited to a widerange of projects, including accurate millingof tarmac/hra, profile planing as required,trench reinstatement (not less than onemetre in width), precision milling or basecourses in preparation for wearing course,etc.

No matter what the requirement, CMPhave the road sweeping solution. CMP

operates state-of-the-art Johnston C200 and VT650 RoadSweepers which are supplied by Martin Burke of WestparkMotor Company on Dublin’s Kylemore Road. Built forsimplicity, performance and operator comfort, the JohnstonC200 Sweepers give unbelievable power and productivity ina small, maneuverable machine. Small dimensions and ashort wheelbase allow excellent maneuverability aroundstreet furniture, parked cars and other obstacles, givingmaximum productivity and clearance efficiency.

The Johnston VT650 Sweeper is designed to meet therequirements of the most demanding municipal andcontractor applications. It is ideally suited to heavier dutywork sites such as road planing and dirt pick-up aroundconstruction sites and access roads. The VT650 also comesfully equipped with wanderhose (gully sucker), powascrub(wide sweep brush), supawash (power hose) andsimultaneous sweeping.

The wanderhose is a rigid turntable-mounted hose thatenables cleaning over a 3.35m wide radius. Supawash is ahigh pressure water system for fast cleaning of road furnitureand the machine itself via a hose and hand lance.Simultaneous sweeping allows dual sweep machines todeploy both channel brushes and nozzles simultaneously toachieve a maximum width of 3.6m.

While CMP’s road sweepers are sufficient in most cases,for thorough cleaning between surfacing layers the onlyroute to achieving the desired result is high pressure waterjetting in advance of sweeping. This activity is catered for byan in-house development that sees a standard tanker



Continued Best Wishes To CMP Road Planing, From

A proactiveand value centred service

to exceed the expectations of all our clients

SERVICESAudit & Statutory Accounts

Financial Outsourcing & Contracting ServicesCompany Secretarial

Business Advisory and Corporate FinancePayroll & Employment Law

“Contact us for tax advice on your fleet large or small”

Joyce House, Barrack Square, Ballincollig

T: 021 481 0080 | F: 021 481 0035E: [email protected]

www.oconnorpyne.com

O’Connor Pyne & CoCHARTERED ACCOUNTANTSREGISTERED AUDITORS

“Professional Safety with apractical approach”

Provides a comprehensive range of Health & Safetyservices nationwide at very competitive rates

Contact us on 087 2196988E: [email protected] www.clivekelly.ie

Wishing CMP Road Planing Continued Success In The Future


PLANT & MACHINERY | SALES & REPAIRS

PLANT | AGRIHYDRAULIC HOSES

SHELL LUBRICANTS | MANN & DONALDSON FILTERS

CONTACT BILLY WALSHCoolmona, Donoughmore, Co Cork

T: 00353 21 7337476 | E:[email protected]: 00353 21 87 2653886 | 00353 87 2337348

Best Wishes To CMP Road Planing, From

Jim CarrollPlant Hire Ltd

ALL TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION PLANT FOR HIREExcavators | Dozers | Tipper Trucks | Low Loaders etc

Licensed Land Fill | Top Soil | Stone etc Supplied & Delivered

Ballincollig, Co. Cork | T: Office 021 4870455Jim 087 2527700 | Kevin 087 2844964James 087 6685811Email: [email protected]


Westpark Motor Co. Ltd.Kylemore Park West, Dublin 10


SALES - SERVICE - PARTS

Light & Heavy Goods DOE Testing &Tachograph Calibration

IRELAND LTD.

converted as the ideal hostvehicle for such a unit. Basedon a Daf 75 4 x 2 truck, the13,000 litre tanker is linked toa front mounted spray bar thataccommodates a row of 16jets, through which water isdispersed over the roadsurface at pressures as highas 3000psi.

With its impressive capacity,the tanker facilitateshigh pressurecleaning of a vastarea as the rate offlow sees 15 litres perminute dispensedthrough each jet. Inaddition to these

capabilities, CMP’s jet washercan perform cleaningoperations on verticalsurfaces through a uniqueside-mounted spray bar.

“There has been a bigdemand for our jet washingservice since the newmotorways were opened. It’sa growing part of ourbusiness,” John concludes.


CONTACT DETAILS

CMP Road PlaningCork OfficeGrange,Killumney,Ovens,Co. Cork.Contact: John CreanMob: 086 6000446Tel: 021 4810597Fax: 021 4810614Email: [email protected]

Dublin OfficeContact: John McHughMob: 086 6000447Tel: 01 6211802Fax: 01 - 621 1802Email: [email protected]


L2L Logistics - forall your storage anddistribution needsSince 2004, L2L Logistics has been providing top-class distribution andlogistics services. Richard Lindsay Jnr explains more about the busyfamily-run company which operates just a stone’s throw away from Dublincity centre.

L2L Logistics Ltd is a well-established companyspecializing in storage, haulage and distribution,based in the heart of Dublin.

Flexibility and innovative solutions have kept L2L to theforefront of its market. Indeed, a strong emphasis on quality,reliability and customer service has enabled the family-runcompany to grow and prosper, in spite of the globalrecession and soaring fuel costs. Boasting a modern fleet ofScania articulated trucks and 30,000 square feet of storagecapacity in Glasnevin, L2L is ideally equipped and located toservice the needs of the city and country.

“Our location is one of our biggest selling points,” enthusesRichard Lindsay, whose father – also Richard – set up the

L2L Logistics prides itself on the qualityof service it provides to customers

company eight years ago.“We are based in Dublin Industrial Estate which is located

directly opposite to Glasnevin Cemetery on the main N2 veininto the city. It’s actually the closest Industrial Estate to thecity centre, so that gives us a big advantage over our rivalsstraight away. In addition, we are just minutes away fromDublin Port Tunnel, the M50 and Dublin Airport, so we can beeasily accessed from any part of Ireland.

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

Richard explains the background to L2L: “It grew out ofanother company of ours, Mail Marketing (Dublin) Ltd, whichmy father set up in 1989 and quickly became market leaderin its field, before selling it on a number of years later. Weretained the logistics side of the business which became L2LLogistics in 2004. We now also offer a haulage anddistribution service, which has been going quite well for us.As a company that comes from a background of success, weendeavour to provide a service that best suits our client’sindividual needs.

“With 30,000 square feet of storage space and a modernfleet of trucks and curtainside trailers, which are bothoperated by a fully qualified staff base, we aim to carry on the

family tradition and become one of the market leaders in thisarea.”

With its impressive storage space, L2L can make light workof all your storage pick ‘n’ pack and distribution needs, nomatter how big or small. The facility offers the following: 3,500pallet 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 (articand rigid); track and trace; proof of delivery.

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

“It’s mainly a pallet storage facility but we do some bulkstorage as well. A lot of companies – ranging from food anddrink to marketing firms to car importers and governmentbodies – use us because of our location and excellentservice. If you have a product, it’s an ideal place from whichto distribute it. Not a lot of people would know that we’re alsothe main warehouse for the Golden Pages phonebook. Thedistributors are in and out of here from August to mid-Octoberevery year delivering books to all parts of the country.”

The warehouse management system used by L2L Logisticsis 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 handlea company’s entire business in a superbly designed MicrosoftSQL Server database. With remarkable ease, Azyra meetsthe needs of the largest freight groups while offering theaffordability demanded by the smaller operator. It handleseverything seamlessly – all the way from prospects throughquotations, customer management to freight and logistics.

“We had the Azyra system installed two-and-a-half yearsago and since then there has been a notable increase in ourproductivity and output. Thanks to this system, our customersknow exactly where they stand when it comes to tracking andtracing their product. Not only has it helped us to maintainbusiness, it has helped us to capture new business, so we’revery pleased with it,” Richard says.

L2L currently provides a professional and reliabledistribution service nationwide. Most of their transport work iscarried 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 ofthe business we have some experience in but we are tryingto expand into further. Should the right opportunities befound, we can offer that service. It’s a fiercely competitivebusiness, but you will get the work if you can give thecustomers what they want and I think that’s why ourcustomer-base is growing all the time.”

One of L2L Logistics’ most valued business partners isAramex International, who are delighted to be associated withthem. “We have an excellent working relationship with L2Lgoing back over many years and I would like to wish them


L2L Logistics boastsa 30,000sq ft storagecapacity and a fleet of modern trucks

continued success in thefuture,” Aramex TransportManager Willie Brophysaid.

Aiden Cullen of TMS isalso fulsome in his praise ofL2L: “We have been usingthem for nearly four yearsand find them very good,very helpful and veryreliable. They provide anexcellent service and arealways willing to go theextra mile.”

Jimmy Duffy of Leyden’sCash & Carry has beendealing with RichardLindsay and L2L foreight years. During thistime his business hasincreased by 100 percent, which is a soundtestament to the serviceprovided. “We use L2Lfor all our storage andlogistics – up to 2,500pallets,” Jimmy says.“Richard runs a veryprofessional service andis an excellent businesspartner.”

Richard is extremelyappreciative of thebusiness L2L LogisticsLtd has and continues to

receive from its customers.He is also glowing in hispraise of the company’s 10-strong staff.

“On behalf of my father,my mother Anna-Maria –who has also played animportant part in the growthof our business – I wouldlike to extend a big thankyou to all our customers,staff and suppliers. Withouttheir help and support, wewouldn’t be where we aretoday,” he concludes.


CONTACT DETAILS

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

Telephone: +353 1 830 8666Mobile: +353 87 687 8244Fax: +353 1 830 8668Email:[email protected]: www.l2llogistics.ie

The companyoffers a nationwidedistribution service

Wishing Continued Success To L2L Logistics From

66 West Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth.

Telephone: 041 98 36816 Fax: 041 98 34478Email: [email protected]

Callan Stringer & CoCHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS

Best Wishes To L2L Logistics

Thirty years ofunrivalled serviceThirty years ofunrivalled serviceM&T Plant Hire Ltd are the leading specialists in septic tank emptying in theSouth-East. But the Enniscorthy-based company has many more strings toits bow as operations manager Pa Redmond explains.


Established 32 years ago by TomMurray, who has remainedmanaging director to this day,

M&T Plant Hire initially specialised inhiring out waste water treatmentequipment. But the company quicklyevolved into one of the country’s largestand most successful septic tank anddrain cleaning businesses.

Today, M&T Plant Hire employs 23people who are based in Davidstown,Enniscorthy, from where they provide an

unrivalled service in counties Wexford,Waterford, Kilkenny, Carlow andWicklow. The company, which has sub-offices in Waterford and Carlow, aims toprovide a service that is fast, fair andefficient. M&T’s experienced, friendlyand highly-skilled staff treat theircustomers with the utmost respect andare dedicated to maintaining theintegrity of the business.

Also specialising in civil engineering,CCTV surveying, sludge disposal, water

leak detection and traffic management,M&T’s customers include privatehouseholds, contractors, engineers,property developers, local authoritiesand government departments.

“There’s a lot of competition out there,but we have maintained our position asthe leading company of our kind in theSouth East through offering a value-for-money service that is second to none,”M&T operations managing Pa Redmondsays.


Continued Best Wishes To M&T Plant Hire Ltd From

Windmill Autos t/a

Donanore, Enniscorthy, Co. WexfordTel: 053 92 33593 Fax: 053 92 33368


WINDSCREEN CENTRE

Direct Billing ToMost Insurance

Companies

ENNISCORTHY TEST CENTRE

“ LGV & HGV TestingTachograph & Plating

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ENNISCORTHY

Best Wishes To M&T Plant Hire Ltd, From

BRIDGESTONE • FIRESTONE • SEMPERIT

Island Rd., Enniscorthy, Co. WexfordTel: (053) 92 36436

Best Wishes To M&T Plant Hire Ltd

Ronan Furlongt/a Tyre World Ltd

24 Hour Breakdown ServicesContact Ronan (087) 2107966

Best Wishes & Continued Success To M&T Plant Hire Ltd From

‘Avila’, Enniscorthy Road,Ferns, Co. Wexford


Bailey & Associates.Certified Public Accountants & Registered Auditors

Proud to be associated with M&T Plant Hire Ltd

Wright O’Leary Insurances Ltd61 Main Street, Gorey, Co. Wexford

Tel: 053 942 2400 Fax: 053 942 2402SPECIALISTS IN WASTE RECYCLING INSURANCE

Wright O’Leary Insurances Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Best Wishes To M&T Plant Hire Ltd, From

TO BOOK ADVERTISING SPACE

or enquire about completing a

Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923

“Most of our customers arerepeat, which is always a goodsign. We offer a 24-hour calloutservice and have a widecustomer-base, ranging fromprivate households togovernment departments suchas the HSE and OPW, to localauthorities. The CountyCouncils were carry out workfor are: Wexford, Wicklow,Waterford, Kilkenny andCarlow.”

When M&T Plant Hire emptiesa septic tank, it does a fullinspection to ensure it isoperating to its maximumcapability. An averagehousehold of four people andwith a 1,500 gallon septic tankshould have their tank cleanedout at least once every threeyears. Mindful that time is of theessence, the company offers a 24-hourresponse unit for emergency calls out(phone 087-2212535). For non-emergencies, please call 053-9244654.

In addition, M&T can clean any size ofdrain using a range of equipment. Acombination of vacuum tankers andjetting units can be used, while a rangeof pressures from 2,000 PSI to 4,000PSI can be applied to clean the moststubborn obstacle. Solutions are alsoavailable for root and grease removal.

M&T specialise in dealing with thecatering industry and other institutionsthat conform to HACCP (HazardAnalysis Critical Control Points) policy, avital prerequisite for consumerprotection in today’s environment, aswell as GHP (Good Hygiene Practice).

Boasting a large fleet of specialisedtrucks, M&T is committed to maintainingthe highest standards of health andsafety throughout all of its activities. Thecompany has put in place theprofessional policies, procedures andtraining to ensure that all employeesadhere to these systems and that allwork is carried out to the standardsrequired.

The implementation of its health and

safety management systems ensuresthat M&T Plant Hire protects the healthand safety of employees, customers,contractors and any members of thepublic who come into contact with thecompany’s activities.

M&T Plant Hire has invested heavily inits plant and facilities down the yearsand recently opened a new state-of-the-art composting treatment facility inDavidstown, with Charlie Rochford asoperations manager, where all domesticand commercial waste products areconverted to compost. M&T remove,transport and dispose of sewage sludgefrom septic tanks, treatment plants andmunicipal waste water facilities. Thesludge is then treated in accordancewith EU best practice, pasteurising thematerial to produce quality compost thatis environmentally safe.

The company has been involved in civilengineering works for over 20 years.Tom Murray and his staff work closelywith their clients and have built up areputation for being flexible and reliable.Another service offered is CCTVanalysis. M&T’s sewer surveys arereported on a specialist computerpackage – Wincam – which producesDVDS providing standard classification,

coding, analysis and photos. Annotateddigital maps and reports of all gradings,connections and other information canalso be provided to anyone who wishesto see at a glance the true state ofaffairs.

M&T are committed to helpingcustomers reduce costly water lossthrough finding leaks in pipelines andrepairing them as quickly as possible.Using the most up-to-date technology,such as electronic ground microphones,the company can pinpoint the problemareas and quickly work towards asolution to fix the problem.

The Enniscorthy-based company alsooffers a traffic management service.Before any work begins, it completes atraffic management plan. Only thosequalified under the CSCS (ConstructionSkills Certification Scheme) cancomplete the detailed plan. The trafficmanagement plan details the layout ofthe road and the layout of the roadworksigns.

A Safe System of Work Plan (SSWP)contains a detailed account of theequipment needed so that everything isin place before the work commences. ASite Specific Method Statement is alsocompleted. M&T is proud of theconsistent level of traffic managementwhich is evident in all of its projects.


CONTACT DETAILS

M&T Plant Hire LtdBallinvary,Davidstown,Enniscorthy,Co. Wexford.Telephone 053-9244654Email: [email protected]: www.mtplanthire.ieThe friendly reception area

M&T Plant Hire in Enniscorthy

Furnishingcustomers with astellar service

Furnishingcustomers with astellar service

Over the past 33 years, W.S. Dennison Ltd. has evolved into Ireland’s No.1furniture distribution specialist. Operating a fleet of 25 units, the thrivingfamily business employs a total of 50 people from its depots in Antrim andLimerick. Irish Trucker popped into the company’s northern base to get aninsight into this extraordinary success story from Pamela Dennison,daughter of co-founder William.


W.S. Dennison was establishedin 1979 with a workforce ofjust two - William Dennison

and Liam Taggart, who remain as thebackbone of this family-run businesstoday. From a modest but enthusiasticbeginning, the company has developedand expanded organically into Ireland’spremier furniture distribution specialist.

A friendly, professional delivery service

is offered, with furniture being the onlyproduct handled. Goods can becollected from manufacturersthroughout the UK mainland oralternatively delivered directly into theW.S. Dennison warehouse from themanufacturer. These goods are thenrouted for delivery from operatingcentres in Antrim and Limerick directly tohouseholds throughout Ireland via a

dedicated specialist two-man homedelivery operation.

W.S. Dennison boasts two purpose-built warehouses in Antrim and Limerick,incorporating a total of 50,000 sq. ft. Acomplete service is offered, includingdedicated warehousing and stockmanagement, quality control, customercare, and data on delivery performance.Both warehouses were purpose-built in

2005 incorporating the latest state-of-the-art equipment.All facilities have 24-hour security (CCTV and motion

sensor alarms) and restricted access, ensuring totalprotection for customers. The combination of peace of mindand cost-effective storage is second to none. Multiplestorage areas increase floor space anticipated for a largeturnaround of furniture and fully-operational hydraulic rampsguarantee easy access of loading and unloading vehicles.

Needless to say, in this line of work, the fleet is absolutelyparamount. The County Antrim headquartered furnituredelivery specialist operates a fleet of fifteen 7.5 tonne rigids,two 3.5 tonners for areas that are more difficult to accessand eight artics. Pamela Dennison, daughter of co-founderWilliam, notes:

“Everything is made to exact specification for us as we onlycarry furniture and the trucks in the fleet have to be custom-built. They are all plated for a maximum weight of 28 tonne,which is unique, and we don’t use tail-lifts, which we find tobe hazardous. Instead, we use only 26-foot dropframetrailers, which is also unique.”

All vehicles include furniture blankets and ties to ensuresafe transit of furniture. They all have built-in satellitenavigation trackers so that management is aware of theirposition 24/7.

Regarding the make-up of the fleet, Pamela continues:“We predominantly ran DAF for a long time but with thetimes changing William and Liam analysed the way forwardand have decided to go with Volvo from now on. We’ve justadded four more Volvos to the fleet – two brand-new unitsand two second-hand ones.”

Reflecting on the genesis of W.S. Dennison Ltd., Pamelacomments: “The roots of the company go back to whenWilliam owned his own furniture shop and used to deliver hisown furniture. He got enquiries about doing home deliveriesand started to do more of those. As he developed a name forhimself as a specialist in delivering furniture, manufacturersbegan to get in touch asking him to collect and distributethroughout Ireland.

“The shop was closed and they became furnituredistributors exclusively. Liam and William – who had drivenlorries on the roads of Ireland for so long that they knewthem inside-out - were the two drivers in the early days butthe business has grown substantially over the years tobecome a limited company and we now employ up to 50,with the head office here in Antrim and a second baseopened at Annacotty in Limerick in 2005.”

W.S. Dennison Ltd. specialises in retail and home deliveryfurniture distribution, working for bothretailers and manufacturers. They holdthe contract to deliver in Ireland for Marksand Spencer but also deliver on behalf ofthe likes of Harveys, B&Q and Tescothrough the manufacturers. W.S.Dennison is the premier furnituredistributor on the island of Ireland, withapproximately 75% of the businessconducted south of the border.

Typically, a two-man crew is required forfurniture delivery – one driver and oneassistant who can help out with assemblyetc. “We offer full assembly of beds andfurniture and we will also dispose of thepackaging on the customer’s behalf,”Pamela notes. “Our drivers are multi-skilled – they would have carpentry skillsas well as being expert HGV operatorsand they would be skilled in hundreds of



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different types and varieties of furniture.“We are a customer-orientated

business and we always go that extramile to make sure that both thecustomer and our partners are fullyhappy with the service provided. Aswell as having a damage rate of just0.1%, we also offer the best value formoney.”

How difficult is it to get the balanceright between providing a quality

service and setting the price of thatservice, especially bearing in mind thatdiesel costs have gone through the roofand margins are vanishing across thetransport sector?

“It’s very difficult. But you have to tryto operate a lean business and wehave trained our staff to try tocounteract the rising costs throughlower fuel consumption and more-efficient driving techniques. In this

respect, the newtrucks are paying forthemselves.

“Being located onan island, we arealso at the mercy ofrising shipping ratesand these simplyhave to be paid. Youhave to pass theseincreases onbecause there’s nopoint working fornothing, but we dostrive at all times togive our customersthe best service andthe best value for

money.”Looking to the future, Pamela

concludes on a suitably positive note:“I’d like to think we can continue toexpand. But we’re not going to take anyrisks or jump too far ahead. We willcontinue to grow our customer lists andfine-tune the operation further beforemoving forward.

“We are going well but it hasn’t allbeen plain sailing. Like mostbusinesses, we have come throughdifficult times but we’ve got to where weare today by offering an excellentservice. And that’s what we will alwaysdo.”


CONTACT DETAILS

W.S. Dennison Ltd.Unit 5A,Rathenraw Industrial Estate,Antrim.BT41 2SJTel: 0044 (0) 28 9446 5108Fax: 0044 (0) 28 9446 5118Email: [email protected]://www.wsdennison.com

Best wishes to W.S. Dennison Ltd, from

5 Mallusk Drive, NewtownabbeyTel: TOM @ 0777-4155166

OFFICE @ 028-90342536email: [email protected]

Tour of dutyThis year, Flavins Bus & Car Hire in Listowel, County Kerry celebrates its21st anniversary. With a superb fleet, excellent staff and a thoroughlyprofessional approach, the family-owned and –operated business has beenservicing the people of North Kerry with distinction since its inception in1991. Irish Trucker paid a visit to the company base at Mevoo, Lisselton andgot the rundown from founder / managing director Pat Flavin.


Flavins Bus & Car Hire is a family-run company that’s beenproviding a high-quality service

out of North Kerry since 1991. Situatedcentral to Ballybunion, Listowel andTralee - with the villages of Ballyduff,Ballyheigue and Causeway all close by– the business is in an ideal location toprovide a fantastic range of bus, coachand taxi hire services, always with apersonal touch and a keen eye onprofessionalism.

Represented by a polite, fully-qualifiedand highly-professional staff (whosemain priority is the safety and comfort ofclients / passengers), Flavins Bus & CarHire is an intrinsic part of the localcommunity, boasting a long history ofsupporting the locality - both in terms ofsponsoring local organisations and alsoby providing much-needed employment.All staff members are from the localityand they boast an extensive knowledgeof the North Kerry area - and further

afield!Providing a professional, affordable

service at all times and operating amodern, efficient fleet of excellently-maintained vehicles to suit alloccasions, the family-run business has– over the past two decades and more-forged a reputation for itself as one ofthe premier coach / bus / taxi firms inNorth Kerry.

The comprehensive range of serviceson offer includes coach and taxi hire

(including wheelchair accessible taxis), wedding hire, school runs, schooltours, golf tours, event hire, airport transfers, hen & stag parties andmystery tours. Fully versatile, they can provide literally any service.

Reflecting on the early days of the business, founder Pat Flavin notes:“I set it up in 1991 and started out with just a hackney car. My father usedto work at that for a number of years so it was a natural area for me toget involved in. I just built it up from there year on year.

“After driving the hackney for a while, I invested in a minibus as I gotbusier and soon I had purchased a second minibus. There was more andmore demand for our services and we started to do school runs etc., sogradually the business built itself up.”

Today, Pat operates a fleet of ten vehicles comprising 53-seatercoaches, 35-seaters, minibuses and a couple of hackney cars.Mercedes, Volvo and Ford are the predominant names in the Flavins Bus& Car Hire fleet. “We only use the best vehicles and you strive at all timesto keep them right and in good nick,” says the company proprietor,adding that 99% of the maintenance work is carried out in-house.

“When the Rural Transport Programme started up a decade ago, we gotinto that,” Pat continues. “We now do a lot of work on behalf of KerryCommunity Transport Ltd., providing rural transport around the county.We would work with them on a weekly basis.

“We’re in a very central location here in North Kerry, four or five milesfrom Ballybunion andsix miles fromListowel. Most of ourwork is local – schoolruns, rural transport,hackney work and wealso do a bit for ActiveRetirement.”

Flavins Bus & CarHire is very much afamily business, withfounder Pat beingjoined in day-to-dayoperations by his sonRaymond, who worksin the mechanical sideof things. Another son,James, also helpskeep the show on theroad.

Like literallyeverybody else whoworks in the transportsector in Ireland at themoment, Pat pointsout that there is oneparticular problemaffecting his businessin a negative way:“The biggest problem


we are facing is the cost of fuel,” hestates. “It’s absolutely crazy now and itis placing us all under pressure. Thesituation is especially bad since theytook away the diesel rebate.

“This is a big, big problem for anyoperator and it presents us with a realchallenge. Costs have gone up andrates are coming down because peopledon’t have much money to spend.We’re caught in the middle and marginscan be very tight at times.”

Another problem affecting the bus andtaxi hire business is that of emigration –particularly in more remote parts of thecountry such as that in which Flavinsoperate: “Emigration has hit our areabadly,” Pat says. “We used to bring ladsto discos and pubs but that businesssimply isn’t there any more. North Kerryis a forgotten part of Kerry and – on topof everything else – the weather iskilling us!”

Ah, the good old Irish weather. Theless said about that the better!

Looking to the future, Pat is optimisticthat Flavins Bus & Car Hire can addsignificantly to its impressive 21-yearhistory: “We’ll have to get the price offuel down first of all – anybody involvedin transport will tell you that there’s awhole sector here in danger of beingkilled off. A reduction would make our

lives a lot easier and it would enable usto re-invest some money in the fleetetc. and to generate some more jobs inthe local area.”

Very much a hands-on proprietor, Patis always on call to take queries andworks very long hours. “You have to doit to survive,” he concludes. “That’s thelong and short of it. We are here 24hours a day and we will take any run inNorth Kerry.”

With 21 years’ experience, FlavinsBus & Car Hire is the obvious choice forcustomers in the North Kerry regionand beyond!


CONTACT DETAILS

Flavins Coaches,Mevoo,Lisselton,Listowel,Co. Kerry,Ireland.Tel: 068 47221Mobile: 087 2399949email: [email protected]

Best Wishes To Flavins Bus & Car Hire

Best Wishes To Flavins Bus & Car Hire, From

Contact Jameson 068 58223

Wishing Flavins Bus & Car HireEvery Success In The Future from

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Tel: 068-53800 Mobile: 086-6009442

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On the road inLimerickLimerick County Council is one of the most progressive and effective localauthorities in the country when it comes to maintaining and improving theroads network. As part of its brief to preserve the local environment, it isalso implementing the scheme for the free take-back of old cars, overseeingall directives regarding the disposal of End of Life vehicles (ELVs).


If you are getting rid of an old car, youneed to know about new regulationswhich are effective as of January 1st,

2007 for all end-of-life cars. Theseregulations introduced an EU Directiveaimed at ensuring that old cars are de-polluted and dismantled in a mannerthat doesn’t pose a threat to ourenvironment or to human health.

These regulations place obligations on

the producers (i.e. vehiclemanufacturers / importers), dismantlers/ vehicle scrap facilities and the carowner. Facilities dealing with end-of-lifevehicles must meet stringent newenvironmental standards for thecollection, storage and treatment of end-of-life vehicles. These facilities areknown as authorised treatment facilities(ATFs).

Old cars should be brought to anauthorised treatment facility which willissue a Certificate of Destructionconfirming that the vehicle will be de-polluted and dismantled in anenvironmentally safe manner. Thefacility will then notify the VehicleRegistration Unit in Shannon and thedestruction of the vehicle will be noted inthe National Vehicle File. The only

A pot hole filler

document that must be given to the facility is theVehicle Registration Certificate (RF101) or the logbook for the car.

Where an authorised treatment facility accepts anintact end-of-life vehicle, no charge may be imposedby the facility on the owner of that vehicle.

Members of the public should only deal with aproperly-permitted authorised treatment facility whengetting rid of an old vehicle, as these are the onlyones that have met the new environmental standardsand can issue Certificates of Destruction.

The authorised treatment facilities for Limerick Cityand County and their locations are as follows: AutoTowing Ltd. (Bob Sweeney) in Castleconnell; DanDooley Ltd. in Knocklong; Dermot Kelly Motors Ltd. inKilmallock; David O'Riordan in Ballyneety; JM CarSales & Dismantlers Ltd. in Ballysheedy; John Ahernin Tournafulla; United Metal Recycling Ireland Ltd.,Ballysimon; Neilus Healy in Abbeyfeale; Munster 4 X4 Spares (Seamus Doyle), Lisnagry; Tommy Holmesin Cappamore; and John O'Carroll, Hospital. Contactnumbers for these are available on the LimerickCounty Council website.

Limerick County Council employs over 700 staff, coveringmanagerial, administrative, professional and technicalgrades. New county manager Conn Murray has overallresponsibility for all staff in the county, including the TownCouncils.

Paul Crowe, Director of Transportation, Water andEmergency Services, provides the administrative andtechnical functions for roads and water services whileJosephine Cotter-Coughlan, Director of Environment,Community, Enterprise & Library, provides the administrativeand technical functions for Planning, EnvironmentalProtection, Waste Management, Libraries, Arts, Culture andHeritage Services.

Limerick County Council is the local authority responsiblefor administration of the county. Within the county there arethree Town Councils – Kilmallock, Rathkeale andNewcastlewest. Each Town Council within the county areacomes under the jurisdiction of the County Manager. TheCouncil aims to protect and enhance the quality of life of thecitizens of County Limerick and to establish County Limerickas a world class business location.

Kieran Lehane is the manager of Limerick City Council.The transport department has responsibility for the roads

network, public lighting, traffic management and the roadsafety programme.

The roads section provides and maintains public roads,footpaths and public lighting; implements trafficmanagement; and promotes road safety. Its aim is to securesafety and efficiency in the transportation of people andgoods by road, which will in turn facilitate increasedeconomic development and maximise the safety of all usersof the roads network – motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Limerick County Council is responsible for 3,601km of roadin the county, which includes the Local, Regional andNational Road Network.

The Road Design Office in Lissanalta House, Dooradoyleis responsible for the planning, design and construction ofnational road projects.

The Roads Section is responsible for the maintenance ofthe county’s road network. This involves a wide range offunctions including the following: bridge maintenance,damage to public roads, felling of trees, provision of drainsand temporary storage of materials, public lighting / trafficlights / school flashing lights, tree / hedge cutting, workingnear the roadside, pot hole repairs, road re-surfacing, weedcontrol, trimming of grass verges, signage, the cutting ofgreen areas and open spaces.

It is an offence to de-face, damageor dig up a public road without theconsent of Limerick County Council.You can apply for a Road OpeningLicence which will allow you to digup a public road to lay pipes, wiresor cables etc. It is also an offence toallow stones, clay or any othermaterial to remain on a public roadwhere by doing so it would cause ahazard or potential hazard to peopleusing the road or obstruct orinterfere with the safe use of theroad. A fine or up to six monthsimprisonment can be imposed onan offender.

With winter closing in, a quick noteon the Treatment of Roads forWinter Conditions in CountyLimerick. Of course, it is notpossible to guarantee that roadsincluding Motorways and NationalRoutes will be entirely clear of ice atall times as ice can occur on roadsat any time and any place not


The Limerick tunnel

predicted in forecasts. All road usersmust be alert to any variations in theroad surface condition.

Limerick has a very temperate climategiven its location between the RiverShannon Estuary and the GalteeMountains in the inland part of theCounty. This means that weatherconditions may and can vary verysignificantly in any one day or night.

The treatment system which is

governed primarily on the NationalRoad network, Priority 1, which isbased primarily on the Icenet system,ice prediction software, put in place bythe National Roads Authority (NRA).The system involves daily monitoringby the Council's Roads Engineersthroughout the season from mid-October to end April each year. Thissystem is supported by and operated inconjunction with the Irish National

Meteorological Service, Met Eireann.As resources permit and depending

on prevailing weather, Priority 2 routes,comprising of most Regional Roadsand other strategic locations, will alsobe treated.

With approximately 4,000km ofroadway in County Limerick , it wouldbe unrealistic to expect that every roadand pedestrian area in the county canbe treated.


The R5654Limerick bypass

Best wishes to Limerick County Council

Best wishes to Limerick County Council,

from

TOMMY HOLMESDromsally, Cappamore, Co. Limerick

Tel: 061-381644 • 087-8187471

ELV-ATF APPROVEDPermit No: WFP/LK/2010/57A

Best Wishes To Limerick County Council From

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PCD Transport‘steeled’ for another30 yearsPCD Transport Ltd is a professional service provider with over 30 years’experience in the transport industry offering steel fabrication, truck buildingand repair work, MIG welding, aluminium welding and commercial paintingservices.

Based in Brittas, which is locatedin the foothills of the DublinMountains on the Dublin-

Wicklow border, the company wasestablished in 1978 by managingdirector Paddy Timmons. It originallytraded as PCD Transport Servicesbefore becoming a limited companysome years later. PCD Transport’sreputation for quality, reliability andvalue-for-money has seen itscustomer-base grow substantially overthe years. A family-run business, it iscommitted to offering an unrivalledservice at all times.

“One of the reasons why we havebeen around as long as we have isdown to the special relationship wehave with our customers. We willalways go out of our way to look afterthem,” Paddy explains.

“The customer always comes first

with us and I’d like to think we’reappreciated for that. All of our work issecured through word of mouth. Therehave been a lot of changes in theindustry over the past 30 years and wehave had to change and evolveaccordingly. What we’re doing now iscompletely different to what we weredoing when we first started.”

Whereas coach building andcommercial painting were once PCDTransport’s main business, it is nowsteel fabrication.

“I served my time as a coach builderand that led me to specialising in coachbuilding, but things have changed andour core business now is metalfabrication. We’re a company that’salways willing to diversify. During theconstruction boom, for example, wewere flat out making brackets forscaffolding poles. Wherever the work

is, we’ll go after it.”Operating from a 2,400 square feet

state-of-the-art workshop, PCDTransport also specialises in truckbuilding and repair work, commercialpainting, MIG welding and aluminiumwelding. MIG welding can be used toweld many different types of metalssuch as carbon steel, stainless steeland aluminium.

In addition, PCD Transport has beenmanufacturing battery boxes since1991. In recent years, the company hasalso branched into makingsnowploughs which can be fitted to thefront of forklifts.

“We saw an opening in the market forthis type of snowplough during theharsh winters of 2009 and 2010. Wesold eight of them straight away whichproved to us that there was a demandfor them. If we get snow next winter, I’m

PCD offers a top-classcommercial painting

service

sure we’ll sell a fewmore of them,”Paddy says.

One companywhich has beendelighted to supplyPCD Transport withtop quality paintsdown the years isCommercial &Industrial Paints,which has outlets inDublin and Cork.Commercial &Industrial Paints’high standards ofproduct quality andcustomer service,coupled with theirability tosuccessfully adaptand progress in the

coating markets, ensure that their customers’ demands forquality performance and value-for-money are continuallymet. All their products are manufactured to comply with thecurrent EPA legislation and are distributed nationwide on anext-day delivery service.

PCD’s regular customers include ESB, ManhattanPeanuts, Glanbia and Coldcut Logistics. The companyemploys six staff, including Paddy’s son Dwayne, daughterSharon and her husband Michael Kearney. The company’sopening hours are from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

“We have an experienced team who are committed toproviding our customers with a professional service thatwon’t be beaten,” the managing director proudly states.

One of PCD Transport’s biggest selling points is its locationon the outskirts of Dublin. Brittas is situated on the N81which historically connected the gates of Trinity College,Dublin to Tullow, Co. Carlow. It intersects with the M50motorway at Junction 11, which makes it easily accessible tocustomers from all parts of the country.

Paddy admits it’s a tough time for everyone involved withtruck bodybuilding and the transport industry in general.

“I’ve never seen it as bad,” is his blunt reply.“It’s all about survival for a lot of companies – ourselves

included. If we hadn’t decided to concentrate on metalfabrication a few years ago, we wouldn’t be here now. Whena truck used to go for a DOE test, a garage would look afterthe mechanical side of things and we’d look after thebodywork. But that work isn’t there for us anymoreunfortunately.

“The building boom created work for everyone, but it’s adifferent story now. This area was choc-a-bloc with trucksdrawing sand and gravel in and out of Blessington, whichhas a number ofquarries, but you’dstruggle to see one now.The cost of diesel isanother huge issuewhich is affectingeveryone in the industry.

“Hopefully things willpick up soon. In themeantime, we willcontinue to offer the bestpossible service we can,”he concludes.


COMPANYDETAILS

PCD Transport LtdUnit 3, Gortlum, Brittas, Co. Dublin.Telephone: 01 4582332 [email protected]

PCD Transport specialisesin truck building and repairwork among other things

The company canrepair any truck

An example of PCDTransport’s work

Continued Best Wishes To PCD Transport Ltd

IRELAND'S LEADING DISTRIBUTOR

OF INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND OFFICE407- 410 Capel Building, Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7T: RoI: 00353 (0)1 4524266 E: [email protected] AND NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE40 The Cutts, Derriaghy, Belfast, Dunmurray, BT 17 9HST: NI & UK: 0044 (0)28 90301979 E:[email protected]

APPIAN FASTENERS

A decade (andcounting) of qualityyou can depend onIf you’re in the market for a new vehicle then look no further than MichaelDaffy Quality Car Sales in Kilmallock, County Limerick. There are fewdealers in Munster – nay, all of Ireland – who boast as good a track recordfor sourcing high-quality used cars and commercial vehicles at anaffordable price. Irish Trucker dropped into Michael Daffy’s well-appointedbase on Wolfe Tone Street and had a chat with Darren Hartery about thecurrent well-being of a company that’s celebrating ten years in business thisyear.


For 80 years now, the Daffy namehas been synonymous with themotor trade in County Limerick

and Michael Daffy Quality Car Sales,Kilmallock maintains a proud familytradition of providing discerningmotorists with a product and servicethey can trust. Michael is very much thego-to man in town when somebodydecides to change their vehicle; hisreputation for excellence precedes himand a long line of regular customersfrom the Treaty County and beyond

would swear by him.The word ‘quality’ isn’t part of the

company name by chance. It wasn’tslipped in there as an afterthought.Quality is pretty much what this second-hand car dealership is all about and,over the past decade, it is uponcornerstones of quality, honesty,dependability and transparency that thisthriving business has been built.

A man with great experience of themotor trade, Darren Hartery recentlyjoined the sales team at Michael Daffy

Quality Car Sales. He provides a bit ofinsight into the genesis of the company:“Michael is still very much the main manhere. He set the business up in 2002 butis following in the footsteps of hisgrandfather – also Michael – whostarted out in business in Croom in1932. Michael’s father Donie still runsthe business in Croom today. So, yes, itwould be fair to say that the family has along tradition in car sales.”

Michael Daffy Car Sales specialisesmainly in the sale of quality second-

hand vehicles though, onoccasion, they will also sourcenew cars if asked to do so.The fact that they are notaffiliated to any particularmanufacturer and thereforeoperate with completeindependence leaves themideally situated to provide thebest solution at all times.

“It’s nearly all used cars we sell and we would have over100 in stock here at any given time,” Darren continues. “ButMichael will go out of his way to get customers a good dealon a new car as well if that’s what they’re looking for. Wehave literally all makes and models in stock and we only sellcars that are in excellent condition. Michael is very particularabout the vehicles he takes in and this insistence on sellingonly the best has stood to him.”

Michael Daffy Quality Car Sales is one of the leading usedcar dealers in the south west, with expert sales staff alwayson hand to demonstrate all vehicles in the showroom. Eachcustomer is dealt with on a one-to-one basis and treated withthe utmost respect and care, with the professional andfriendly team determined to hammer out a deal that ismutually beneficial to both parties. Trade-ins are welcomeand invariably customers drive out through the gates with asmile on their face.

While these are very testing times for the motor industry ingeneral, Darren is pleased to report that Michael DaffyQuality Car Sales in holding its own: “We’re tipping awayand doing alright,” he says. “Obviously, the days of making afortune in this business are long gone. The reality is thatunfortunately most people can’t afford to replace their carsanymore – especially when it comes to new ones. After thefirst three months of the year, very few new cars are sold.

“But there is a steady demand for quality second-hand carsall year round and we are doing okay. Cars in the €7,000 to€12,000 price range are particularly popular and that’swhere most of the activity is taking place these days. Youcan get a good reliable car for that amount of money and

that’s enough for most people to get by.”As a businessman, Michael Daffy is very much an

intrinsic part of the local community, as Darren reveals:“The dealership is on the same site as his pub and wecan fit up to 70 vehicles into the yard here at any giventime and then he also has a showroom with vintagecars and there’s an undertaker’s business here as well.He also does some limousine hire for weddings andcorporate events etc.”

The second-hand commercial vehicle market is justabout registering! “We do have a few commercialvehicles in stock and we’re always on the look-out forthem but tradesmen who used these vans during thebubble didn’t trade them in for some reason. A lot ofthem have just held onto their vans so the supply ofquality second-hand commercial vehicles is weak. But if

there are any outthere we willsource them andoffer a good deal.”

Having workedpreviously for amain Opel dealerin Limerick city,Darren is enjoyinghis new role withMichael DaffyQuality Car Salesand says thecompany has greatprospects for thefuture: “I think we


Best Wishes To Michael Daffy Quality Car Sales From

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CARS, VANS, JEEPS, TRUCKS & TRACTOR TYRES

Northbridge, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick

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Contact Us On 063 31000


A decade (andcounting) of qualityyou can depend onIf you’re in the market for a new vehicle then look no further than MichaelDaffy Quality Car Sales in Kilmallock, County Limerick. There are fewdealers in Munster – nay, all of Ireland – who boast as good a track recordfor sourcing high-quality used cars and commercial vehicles at anaffordable price. Irish Trucker dropped into Michael Daffy’s well-appointedbase on Wolfe Tone Street and had a chat with Darren Hartery about thecurrent well-being of a company that’s celebrating ten years in business thisyear.


For 80 years now, the Daffy namehas been synonymous with themotor trade in County Limerick

and Michael Daffy Quality Car Sales,Kilmallock maintains a proud familytradition of providing discerningmotorists with a product and servicethey can trust. Michael is very much thego-to man in town when somebodydecides to change their vehicle; hisreputation for excellence precedes himand a long line of regular customersfrom the Treaty County and beyond

would swear by him.The word ‘quality’ isn’t part of the

company name by chance. It wasn’tslipped in there as an afterthought.Quality is pretty much what this second-hand car dealership is all about and,over the past decade, it is uponcornerstones of quality, honesty,dependability and transparency that thisthriving business has been built.

A man with great experience of themotor trade, Darren Hartery recentlyjoined the sales team at Michael Daffy

Quality Car Sales. He provides a bit ofinsight into the genesis of the company:“Michael is still very much the main manhere. He set the business up in 2002 butis following in the footsteps of hisgrandfather – also Michael – whostarted out in business in Croom in1932. Michael’s father Donie still runsthe business in Croom today. So, yes, itwould be fair to say that the family has along tradition in car sales.”

Michael Daffy Car Sales specialisesmainly in the sale of quality second-

hand vehicles though, onoccasion, they will also sourcenew cars if asked to do so.The fact that they are notaffiliated to any particularmanufacturer and thereforeoperate with completeindependence leaves themideally situated to provide thebest solution at all times.

“It’s nearly all used cars we sell and we would have over100 in stock here at any given time,” Darren continues. “ButMichael will go out of his way to get customers a good dealon a new car as well if that’s what they’re looking for. Wehave literally all makes and models in stock and we only sellcars that are in excellent condition. Michael is very particularabout the vehicles he takes in and this insistence on sellingonly the best has stood to him.”

Michael Daffy Quality Car Sales is one of the leading usedcar dealers in the south west, with expert sales staff alwayson hand to demonstrate all vehicles in the showroom. Eachcustomer is dealt with on a one-to-one basis and treated withthe utmost respect and care, with the professional andfriendly team determined to hammer out a deal that ismutually beneficial to both parties. Trade-ins are welcomeand invariably customers drive out through the gates with asmile on their face.

While these are very testing times for the motor industry ingeneral, Darren is pleased to report that Michael DaffyQuality Car Sales in holding its own: “We’re tipping awayand doing alright,” he says. “Obviously, the days of making afortune in this business are long gone. The reality is thatunfortunately most people can’t afford to replace their carsanymore – especially when it comes to new ones. After thefirst three months of the year, very few new cars are sold.

“But there is a steady demand for quality second-hand carsall year round and we are doing okay. Cars in the €7,000 to€12,000 price range are particularly popular and that’swhere most of the activity is taking place these days. Youcan get a good reliable car for that amount of money and

that’s enough for most people to get by.”As a businessman, Michael Daffy is very much an

intrinsic part of the local community, as Darren reveals:“The dealership is on the same site as his pub and wecan fit up to 70 vehicles into the yard here at any giventime and then he also has a showroom with vintagecars and there’s an undertaker’s business here as well.He also does some limousine hire for weddings andcorporate events etc.”

The second-hand commercial vehicle market is justabout registering! “We do have a few commercialvehicles in stock and we’re always on the look-out forthem but tradesmen who used these vans during thebubble didn’t trade them in for some reason. A lot ofthem have just held onto their vans so the supply ofquality second-hand commercial vehicles is weak. But if

there are any outthere we willsource them andoffer a good deal.”

Having workedpreviously for amain Opel dealerin Limerick city,Darren is enjoyinghis new role withMichael DaffyQuality Car Salesand says thecompany has greatprospects for thefuture: “I think we



All Car Parts Supplied With The Best PricesGuaranteed to the Trade and The Public

24 HOUR BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICESpecialists in Alloy Wheel Repair For

CARS, VANS, JEEPS, TRUCKS & TRACTOR TYRES

Northbridge, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick

IC Motor Factors

Right PriceTyres



have very good potential here. Michaelhas a very good name in the trade andis extremely well known. Most people inKilmallock would automatically comehere if they were in the market for a carand the same applies to people fromCharleville and all the nearby townsand villages. We have a large customerbase from the local area.

“Michael runs an excellent operationand all his cars are in immaculatecondition. As well as being top-qualityvehicles, they are also valeted andserviced before they leave thepremises and they offer exceptionalvalue at a budget price.

“We also have a very good websitenow - www.daffymotors.com - which iskept up to date with all the cars wehave in stock and we get about 75-80%of our business through the website, sothat is very important to us. All the cars

are guaranteed depending on theirage, with six months on a ’07 forexample or twelve months offered on a’10 or ’11. We also have a smallworkshop and a mechanic on site, whomakes sure everything is in perfectworking order and provides a back-up

service.“As for the future, we’ll just keep

plugging away as we are and hopefullymy own experience of the trade canhelp Michael to sell a few more cars!It’s tough at the minute, but once youhave a good quality car at a reasonableprice, then you can’t go far wrong.We’re also going to look into trying tobring some partners on board to offercustomers finance packages, which issomething that most people are lookingfor these days.”


CONTACT DETAILS

Michael Daffy Quality Car Sales Wolfe Tone Street,KilmallockCounty Limerick.Telephone: 063 98000Fax: 063 31898Email: [email protected]


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5th & 6th November 2012Citywest Convention Centre Dublin

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Irish Trucker November 2012

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