The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT) is taking a number of actions in response to the COVID-19 emergency to ensure it can deliver services for members, students and customers.
Following Government advice, the CILT has temporarily closed its office and staff are working remotely at the present. Office services can be accessed via the website and e-mail. The Management Committee are meeting once a week by conference call and further changes will be made as the situation develops.
The CILT is continuing to deliver its Higher Certificate in Business Logistics & Supply Chain management, and has delivered classes online since the emergency started. “This was a first for the institute and we adopted this approach in order that our students were not unduly disrupted or disadvantaged by the Coronavirus,’ stated Tim Daly, President of the CILT.
“We have also taken the step of changing the end of year exams into end of year assignments, this was a decision that we took with our academic partners IT Carlow and the Education Committee. We have also rescheduled the Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser Exams to September and likewise, the Transport Management Certificate in Professional Competence Examinations. It is hoped that by that stage, COVID-19 will be a distant memory,” he added.
An exemption has been granted to drivers in relation to ADR permits, (Dangerous goods). If a drivers ADR permit expires between now and the end of November 2020 they do not have to take a test until before 1st December 2020. This decision has reduced the legal requirement for dangerous goods drivers and operators with expiry dates in the near future.
“It is regrettable that we have to pause our events schedule, last year finished on a high note with our 100 year anniversary dinner, this year started on an equally high note with Eastern Sections event; “Innovation and transformation in the final stage of fulfilment” held in the Hilton Northern Cross, on 21 February last. COVID-19 throws up challenges for the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport as well as individuals, we must acknowledge the important work of people working on the front line of this emergency, our Doctors, Nurses, Carers, Emergency Services personnel, Commercial Vehicle Drivers (HGV, LGV & PSV), Mechanics, Transport Professionals and people working in all aspects of the supply chain and passenger transport to maintain the food, medical supplies and the basic needs of society. There is a great community effort by the people and the State.”
“The virus puts life into perspective and what is really important, our families, our friends, colleagues and our health. Maybe we will learn from this event and come out the far side of this in better shape than before, it is a reminder of what is really valuable, each other and our communities. On behalf of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport, thanks for your understanding, ongoing support and encouragement. We hope that you and your families will stay safe and we look forward to the day we can resume normal life once again.”