Union warns haulier firms will go bust if port stays closed [Video]

Some haulier firms may go bust unless the damaged terminals at Holyhead Port are reconstructed in the coming weeks, the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has warned, writes Ken Murray.

The Welsh port’s ferry terminals were severely damaged during Storm Darragh on December 13, resulting in the cancellation of sailings and re-routing of freight routes between Britain and Ireland.

High winds have caused more travel chaos for those heading home as some ferries from alternative routes were cancelled.

Irish Ferries apologised last night for the delay in its 5.30pm departure from Fishguard in Wales, “due to a technical issue” that arose on the ship’s arrival the Welsh port earlier on.

IRHA president Ger Hyland said: “There are over 4,000 licensed road hauliers in Ireland.

“Recently launched haulage companies who have big loans with banks to fund the purchase of trucks are now starting to feel the squeeze.

“Their operating margins have been severely reduced because of the problems at Holyhead.

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