The HGV driver shortage in Ireland is a long-term issue driven by an ageing workforce, high training costs, poor work-life balance, increasing regulatory requirements, and competition from other sectors. Solving it will require a combination of industry and government initiatives, writes John Loughran.
Here are some of the most practical solutions:
1. Reduce the Cost of Driver Training
One of the biggest barriers is the €3,000–€5,000 cost of obtaining an HGV licence and the required Driver CPC qualification.
Possible solutions include:
Government-funded training grants.
Employer-sponsored licence schemes.
Tax relief on training costs.
Expansion of apprenticeship-style programmes.
2. Improve Pay and Benefits
Although wages have improved, many drivers still believe they do not adequately reflect the responsibilities of the job.
Employers could offer:
Competitive salaries.
Performance and safety bonuses.
Pension contributions.
Health insurance.
Attendance and loyalty bonuses.
3. Improve Working Conditions
Long hours and nights away from home discourage new entrants.
Measures include:
More predictable schedules.
Better route planning.
Greater use of relay driving.
Increased availability of secure truck parking.
Investment in modern, comfortable vehicles.
4. Attract Younger Drivers
The average age of HGV drivers in Ireland continues to rise.
The industry should:
Promote logistics careers in schools and colleges.
Create graduate and apprenticeship pathways.
Highlight opportunities beyond driving, including transport management and fleet operations.
Use social media to improve the industry’s image.
5. Encourage More Women into the Industry
Women remain significantly underrepresented in road transport.
Initiatives could include:
Female-focused recruitment campaigns.
Improved depot and roadside facilities.
Flexible working arrangements.
Mentoring programmes.
6. Recruit International Drivers
Ireland can help address immediate shortages by recruiting qualified drivers from overseas.
This requires:
Faster recognition of overseas licences where appropriate.
Streamlined employment permit processes.
Relocation support.
Language and integration assistance.
7. Invest in Technology
Technology cannot replace drivers, but it can make their jobs easier and more attractive.
Examples include:
AI-powered route optimisation.
Electronic proof of delivery.
Telematics.
Driver assistance systems.
Digital paperwork.
Reducing administrative burdens allows drivers to spend more time driving productively.
8. Improve Driver Retention
Retaining experienced drivers is often more cost-effective than recruiting new ones.
Successful employers focus on:
Career progression.
Recognition programmes.
Continuous professional development.
Open communication with drivers.
Wellbeing and mental health support.
9. Address Infrastructure Challenges
Government investment can make the profession more attractive by improving:
Secure overnight parking.
Rest facilities.
Road infrastructure.
Charging and refuelling infrastructure for low-emission HGVs.
10. Raise the Industry’s Profile
The haulage industry is essential to Ireland’s economy but often receives little public recognition.
Industry organisations and employers should promote:
The vital role drivers play in keeping supply chains moving.
Career opportunities.
New technologies and sustainability initiatives.
Success stories from younger drivers.
Long-Term Outlook
The shortage is unlikely to be solved by a single measure. The most effective strategy combines:
Lower training costs.
Better pay and working conditions.
Improved work-life balance.
Investment in technology.
Recruitment of younger and more diverse drivers.
Stronger government support.
With freight demand expected to remain strong and an ageing driver workforce approaching retirement, proactive action is essential if Ireland is to maintain a resilient and efficient road transport sector.
