ITIA drive for licensing

The Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) is working to bring all legitimate tyre traders together in a drive to bring licensing into the sector. The ITIA’s ATA Tyre Technician Accreditation scheme is proving a success, with more than 50 per cent of ITIA retail members now having Accredited technicians working in their outlets. Currently the ITIA is working with the RSA on National Road Safety Week to highlight to motorists the importance of checking their tyres in a reputable outlet.

ITIA members work to a strict set of standards and Kevin Farrell, President, explains the importance of increasing standards. “In the absence of any regulation, our approved ATA Accreditation gives us an independent evaluation of the skills of the fitters working in our members retail outlets.”

He added: “Our technicians are scoring highly on the scheme and it’s a first step in bringing in higher standards to the industry, where we are ultimately working towards licensing. We are calling on all reputable tyre businesses in the country to join the association. Anyone can set up a tyre shop and be fitting tyres without any experience or expertise. By bringing all the legitimate outlets together we will have a stronger voice to push through improvements in the industry for those traders who are professional and take safety seriously.”