Inaugural ReParts conference highlights needs of sector
The inaugural conference of the new trade association – ReParts, representing Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs) that sell reused automotive parts, was held in Tullamore last Thursday, 4th June, and was sponsored by ELVES and FindaPart.ie.
The conference featured a range of speakers addressing topics including the new EU End-of-Life Vehicles legislation, health and safety, and human resources.
Guest speakers also emphasised the importance of ensuring the sector has a strong voice and representation at government level during the development of new legislation.
Celia Cremin, manager of ReParts, outlined the results of a survey conducted by the association, which represented approximately 20 per cent of the sector. The key findings showed that ATFs are seeking an insurance scheme and stronger action to combat illegal operators.
ReParts also announced that it has engaged a consultant to prepare a Health and Safety Statement template for ReParts members, which can be adapted to suit individual businesses.
In addition, the association said it is working with Travers Insurance to explore the establishment of an insurance scheme for members. A key requirement for securing such a scheme is that members adopt and use the ReParts Health and Safety Statement template once it is published.
To tackle illegal operators, Cremin pointed to a measure that has proven successful in the UK, where metal recycling transactions are legally required to be cashless. Ireland drafted similar legislation in 2012, but it did not progress.
At the ReParts conference, it was highlighted that the criteria for the new Government car scrappage scheme should include a requirement for Certificates of Destruction. ReParts has since engaged with the scheme administrators, SEAI, to advocate for its inclusion as part of the scheme requirements.
SEAI has now confirmed that Certificates of Destruction will be included in the scheme criteria.
SEAI has also requested a meeting with ReParts next September to provide an update on the scrappage scheme.
SEAI also wishes to learn from ReParts about the circularity of reused car parts in Ireland and the sector’s future plans, particularly considering the eventual need to manage the scrappage of electric vehicles.