Following the publication of a list of Essential Workers on Saturday evening (28th March 2020), a new document entitled COVID-19 – The importance of maintaining all links in supply chains was issued on Friday 3rd April 2020.
During the week of Monday 30th March - Friday 3rd April 2020, IIFA Member reported that storage of Containers at Ports and Airports during this crisis was becoming a growing issue. This latest Supply Chain document clarifies that all parties due receipt of Cargo, including those Businesses deemed Non-Essential that are temporarily closed, should make arrangements to receive ordered Cargo, thus aiding the operational flow of the Supply Chain for essential food and medical supplies.
The document can be accessed by clicking here.
With publication of this guidance, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross thanked all those working in the Transport and Supply Chain network ensuring the delivery of essential goods to Ireland.
The Minister said:
"I’d like to acknowledge the immense contribution of the people working to transport goods, foods and medications in a timely manner to all of us at home in Ireland. We know it is vital that our health service receives the medical equipment delivered by our transport workers in order to fight against this virus and care for all in need. I applaud and thank them for keeping the supply chain moving at this very difficult time."
The Minister was speaking after a Cabinet Committee meeting at which he outlined the ongoing work in the transport supply chain.
He went on to say:
"Every element of the Supply Chain is a vital link in ensuring a continuous flow of goods. I know work has been ongoing to ensure Dublin Port remains free from blockages and I would encourage Retailers, where possible, to take delivery of their goods. If this is not possible, I ask that they seek alternative storage arrangements to ensure that the passage of essential products through the port is not impeded.”
In making his comments, the Minister noted that Warehousing and support activities for Transportation are deemed Essential Workers even if they are not dealing with essential goods. (More on that below…)
The Minister finished by saying:
"In times of need, Irish people pull together and I know that everyone will do their part in ensuring the Supply Chain runs as smoothly as possible so critical needs can be met quickly.”
The department has published an informational document in relation to Maritime Transport which is available here.
Coronavirus section on IIFA website
IIFA has dedicated a section of its website to Freight Industry relevant Coronavirus updates. This information can be found via the link below:
