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FTAI endorses logistics expert for Irish Senate

[ February 26, 2020   //   ]

FTAI is endorsing logistics expert Declan Allen as a candidate for the Industrial and Commercial Panel of Seanad Éireann (Irish Senate).

He is a senior lecturer at the Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) where he spearheaded the development and launch of the Logistics Associate Apprenticeship, the first non-craft apprenticeship in TU Dublin. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK), having served as chair of the CILT Ireland’s Education Committee and as Council Member from 2004-06.

FTAI recently became a nominating body for the Senate and is one of a number of professional bodies and businesses organisations that can nominate candidates for the upper house of the Irish legislature, which debates government white papers and scrutinises legislation.

Other members of the senate are nominated by political parties and there is stiff competition for places. Elections to the Senate are due to be completed at the end of March.

General manager of FTAI Aidan Flynn commented: “FTAI is urging those with voting power – county councillors, elected Teachta Dálas and current senators – to endorse Declan Allen in the Seanad Éireann election; his experience and expertise make him the ideal candidate to represent freight distribution and logistics on the Industrial and Commercial Panel. At such a crucial period for the logistics sector – Brexit, skills shortages and the European Green Deal all present serious challenges to the way businesses operate – there has never been a more important time to elect someone with the technical knowledge and expertise required to navigate industry through these uncertain times. Campaigning on a platform of sustainable logistics, mitigating the risks of Brexit while seizing the opportunities, and tacking the skills shortage, Allen would ensure the logistics sector is well represented in the Seanad Éireann.

“In the view of FTAI, the House also would reap the benefits of Mr Allen’s drive and talent. A balanced Seanad – featuring both professional politicians and business experts – will ensure the House is able to deliver the best possible outcomes for the citizens of Ireland.”

Flynn played tribute to Allen’s role in helping develop the logistics apprenticeship in Ireland, adding: “It is very important to have someone who understands the industry and the current situation in Ireland.”

Although at the time of writing, a new Irish government had yet to be formed in the wake of the recent general election, appointment of Senate members is an independent process. However, if as widely suggested, the political parties cannot reach agreement and a fresh general election is called in April, the process of appointing the senate would then have to begin again.

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