MEDIA RELEASE
Dairy Executives’ Association Highlights Impact of Fuel Crisis on Members and Calls for Fairness in Transport Support Schem
The Dairy Executives’ Association (DEA) has today raised serious concerns about the ongoing impact of the fuel and energy crisis on its members working across the co-operative sector.
DEA members are experiencing significant cost pressures in their day-to-day roles, particularly those required to travel extensively. The Union has been contacted by members who report that current mileage and subsistence rates are no longer sufficient to cover the real and rising cost of fuel.
“Our members are feeling the impact of this crisis directly,” DEA General Secretary Niall Sherlock said. “For many, the cost of doing their job has increased substantially, and this is not being adequately reflected in current mileage rates.”
The DEA confirmed that it will be engaging with management across affected co-operatives to seek a review of mileage and related allowances to ensure they are fair and reflective of current conditions.
In addition, the Union has expressed concern regarding the structure of the Road Transporters Support Scheme, which currently excludes co-operatives that operate their own transport fleets.
“We fully support the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) in its call for the scheme to be revised so that all transporters involved in milk collection and feed delivery, whether directly employed or contracted, are treated equally,” Mr Sherlock said.
“The scheme currently risks incentivising the outsourcing of haulage operations. We support ICOS calls for this scheme to be revised in order to protect permanent employment, and ensuring that short-term policy decisions do not drive long-term structural change that ultimately harms workers.”
Matter has now been raised in Seanad Eireann
Following discussions with Senator Mark Duffy, this matter has now been formally raised in the Seanad.
The DEA is hopeful for a positive response from government so good permanent jobs can continue to be protected within our industry.