Joe O'Reilly (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support the measure as a Deputy from a Border constituency where this is an extraordinarily important matter. In that regard I agree with my constituency colleague, Deputy Ó Caoláin. It is very important for our area. The area no longer has a rail network, so the local hauliers are a critical part of its economic infrastructure. They are substantial employers in their own right, are vital to small business in the area and they do a great job. This measure will make it easier for them to function.

I pay tribute to the hauliers. Some of them are in the House tonight to hear the good news and I have spoken to them outside the Chamber. A number of them are from my constituency. They are extremely happy with the news of this initiative. I am delighted to support it as an exercise in achieving fairness, as well as for the retention of jobs and further job creation. It is a good measure for our area. It is a good news story and a sensible piece of economic engineering that will work for the area.

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