Business, Freight News, Logistics, Road


FTAI welcomes Holyhead reopening but questions remain

[ January 13, 2025   //   ]

FTA Ireland (FTAI) has welcomed the news that Holyhead port is to reopen on 16 January, albeit with a reduced schedule. However, chief executive Aidan Flynn is concerned that damage to a single berth at the port could cause such disruption to the country’s supply chain and is urging government for transparency to ensure that a similar situation cannot arise again.

He said: “Urgent questions remain as to the severity of the damage caused by Storm Daragh, and how disruption to one berth at the port can cause such disruption for our nation’s supply chain. Our nation relies on a seamless movement of goods through Holyhead to provide much of what our homes, schools, hospitals and businesses need to operate, and to be so disadvantaged by a single incident at the port does not bode well for the resilience of Ireland’s supply chain.”

He said there was still a lack of information about the cause of the disruption and how long it will take to resolve, or indeed the severity of the damage to the berth in Holyhead, when it will be repaired and if further disruptions are likely.” 

 “FTAI’s members are calling on the Irish government to set up an effective contingency planning mechanism, through an industry stakeholder group, to support the Irish supply chain with resilient and effective connectivity with British ports. We cannot continue to leave drivers and businesses stranded at ports for up to 14 hours with little or no welfare facilities, and a lack of guidance, information and communication which resulted in unnecessary stress and frustration.  

 “As they did in the pandemic, HGV drivers kept the flow of goods moving in very challenging circumstances, but we must not rely on the good will and fortitude of these staff to support the supply chain whenever crises occur. They deserve our thanks and support.” 

Tags: