Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In this session we will continue our discussion of the impact Brexit has had on Ireland's trade and connectivity with the EU. Ar son an choiste arís, on behalf of the committee cuirim fáite chuig Mr. Eugene Drennan agus a chomhghleacaí, Mr. John Nolan. Mr. Drennan is the uachtarán of the Irish Road Haulage Association, a position he has held since 2020.

I apologise to members in advance. I have to read out another note on privilege. Before we begin, all witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if a statement is potentially defamatory in relation to any identifiable person or entity they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Before I call on Mr. Drennan to make his opening statement, I will explain that we had a presentation from representatives of Rosslare and Dublin ports prior to this session. Mr. Drennan met them on the way out. Two figures from that session stood out to me, namely, a 26% reduction in trade to the UK and the extraordinary figure of an overall 53% increase in traffic at Rosslare Europort since Brexit. That is completely relevant to the work the Irish Road Haulage Association is involved in. I know Mr. Drennan has a comprehensive presentation.