Export & Freight Aug-Sep 24

Moving on

As we move into the second half of 2024 the political landscape in which our industry operates has changed once again, with a new Labour Government sweeping to power in Westminster – meaning that the Conservatives, who have been calling the shots for 14 years now, have been sent packing.

What that means for the Transport and Logistics sector is yet to be seen, but we can only hope the new Government grasps the importance of this industry to the economy, and realises that it needs supported if it is to prosper.

Groups like Logistics UK work hard on our behalf to lobby government to get a better deal for the industry, and raise awareness of just how important to the economy logistics are.

Trade thrives when borders and customs procedures are as frictionless as possible, but since Brexit (that wonderful idea of Conservative leader David Cameron) there have been extra complications – and extra costs – to trade and the process of moving freight from one jurisdiction to another.

Here in Northern Ireland we need the support of the NI Executive, making sure they understand how vital this industry is –and that it needs support.

There is also fresh hope that a new Labour government may make doing business between the UK, Ireland and the EU easier – although we have nothing yet to substantiate this hope.

What those in power – whether in Stormont or Westminster – must grasp is how Northern Ireland is in this unique position bordering the UK, Republic of Ireland (and EU), and finding the best ways to capitalize on this.

The other areas of the UK, and the Republic, all have up to date government plans and strategies focusing on Transport as an industry, and looking at ways to help it survive and prosper.

The NI Executive needs to come up with similar support plans and, possibly with the help (and funding) from a new Government in Westminster this might be a step or two closer.

Austin Lynch Editor
Email: [email protected]