Donna Knowles, the new head of the Northern Ireland Transport Regulation Unit, who takes up her post tomorrow (April 1), attended the Freight Transport Association (FTA) annual Transport Manager Conference in Belfast last week. 

FTA's policy and membership relations manager for Northern Ireland Seamus Leheny, who chaired the event, said: "Her being here today is a clear indication that she is keen to become engaged with our industry and members alike, and we look forward to working with her in the future."
 
Knowles was formerly at the Department of Justice and will replace Donald Armstrong who spoke at the FTA conference.
 
During his presentation, Armstrong delivered essential information to delegates regarding the role of the Transport Regulation Unit; its progress since going live July 2012; findings and common problems with non-compliant operators and discussed case study examples.I

It was his last presentation to the transport managers before his retirement from the DOE, where he has represented the transport industry for many years.
 
The FTA Northern Ireland Transport Manager event programme also included a wide variety of speakers covering key issues facing transport managers in the year ahead, and provided delegates with information and advice from industry experts.
 
Key sessions included:

• DVA enforcement procedures.
• Traffic Regulator's address.
• Securing loads.
• HGV UK Road User Levy.
• Cyclists safety.
• Maximising fuel efficiency.