Thirty-nine bodies found on trailer in Essex

The RHA in the UK has stated that it is shocked at the report of 39 people found dead in the back of a lorry in Essex.

RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett said: “This is subject to an ongoing investigation. Our thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their lives, but whatever the circumstances of this tragedy it highlights the danger of migrant gangs people-smuggling on lorries.”

Statement from Verona Murphy, President of the Irish Road Haulage Association, said following the report of the tragedy in Essex. “I am shocked & saddened to hear of the level of loss of human life in such tragic circumstances. I’d like to take this opportunity to remind our Members to ensure that their drivers carry out their vehicle checks with utmost vigilance, in circumstances where they are traveling by ferry, at every appropriate opportunity. We do not yet know the details of how this container was transported and by what route and no assumptions can be made. However, the potentially horrendous consequences for migrants attempting to stow away on passing vehicles must be kept in mind, as well as the safety of drivers, at all times. It is a difficult part of our job as hauliers but it is a constant risk and can only be dealt with in a vigilant and professional manner”