The Freight Transport Association has vowed to keep the needs of the logistics sector in the spotlight following the appointments of both the Environment Minister and Minister for Regional Development to the Northern Ireland Executive. The leading trade body will work closely with both Alex Attwood MLA and Danny Kennedy MLA respectively to ensure that Operator licensing reform and investment in infrastructure remain firmly on the political agenda at Stormont.
Tom Wilson, FTA's Head of Policy in Northern Ireland, said:
"We welcome the appointments of both Mr Attwood and Mr Kennedy to their new roles and look forward to working closely with each of them in their individual capacities in the best interests of Northern Ireland's logistics sector and, in a broader sense, its economic well-being."
The primary legislation creating scope for the Operator licensing regime was passed in January 2010. However, the necessary secondary legislation has not yet been brought forward.
Wilson continued:
"With Mr Attwood, our primary aim is to input into and expedite the introduction of the new O-licensing regime - essential to improve industry standards of safety and compliance."
The individual remits of both Ministers will cover areas affecting how transport and freight operate in terms of safety, environmental performance and untapped potential to make Northern Ireland a better place to do business.
Wilson concluded:
"Among Mr Kennedy's responsibilities will be infrastructure development and the allocation of the rather limited resources now available to the new Executive. Working with the new ministerial team and MLAs across the Assembly we aim to demonstrate that investing in the supply chain is the surest route to economic recovery."