Lorry stats shock AM (From Western Telegraph)

Lorry stats shock AM

1:30pm Tuesday 15th July 2008 in

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New figures revealing that nearly a quarter of lorries on our roads are being driven illegally have shocked South Pembrokeshire AM Angela Burns.

The figures come after an eight-day police operation targeting 240 lorries using Pembroke Dock and Fishguard ports.

Operation Emerald saw heavy goods vehicle being checked as they drove into the Pembrokeshire ports.

A total of 67 drivers were reported for tachograph offences and 45 immediately banned from driving.

"I find this total very disturbing," said Mrs Burns. "Obviously we have a lot of lorries on our main roads because of the two busy ports but to think that such a high percentage are operating over their tachograph limits is worrying."

The AM went on to express concerns that the lack of proper rest facilities at Pembroke port may be leading drivers to go over their working hours.

"I had hoped that the issue of a dedicated rest area at Pembroke port was getting sorted out but there's been very little movement towards a solution," she said.

"I shall be writing to both the council and Pembroke port to try to get the matter moving once again."

Inspector Andy Phillips said the figures from Operation Emerald were very worrying: "These figures are concerning," he said. "We are warning lorry drivers and the companies which employ them that we will be continuing to carry out checks on their vehicles to ensure they are safe and legal."