Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the considerable difficulties Irish haulage companies were facing in France. We invested a considerable effort in dealing with tachograph readings and the recording of time. The decision the British Government had to make provided the background to the triggering of section 14.2, which we discussed earlier.

The Deputy referred to fines, an issue that has been raised directly with me and my officials. We have asked representatives of the haulage industry to provide details because we are working with the UK authorities on a case by case basis. While I consistently state we respect their independence and right to make decisions in these matters, we have drawn to their attention mitigating factors, including current events, which may mean that drivers find themselves in difficulty through no fault of their own. We have asked the two representative bodies of the haulage sector to share details of specific cases with us. We will co-operate with the UK authorities to ascertain whether the matters can be handled differently. We have achieved some success in having fines reduced. We will continue to work on this issue because it is ongoing, although the problem has abated somewhat compared to the position that obtained earlier in the year.

The Deputy raised an issue related to the certificate of professional competence, CPC.

I have just checked with officials who are with me and we are not aware of the matter to which the Deputy is referring. However, the certificate is a requirement.