IIFA’s primary role is representation and support of its Members’ interests. With such a fluid and dynamic industry, the appropriate methods to best perform this task continuously evolve.
IIFA’s work in the Education area has long been widely regarded within the industry. IIFA launched its own version of the FIATA Diploma in Freight Forwarding in 2008, allowing Employees of Member firms access to an internationally recognised training programme that would certify their years of knowledge and experience. More recently, IIFA launched a stand-alone Customs Awareness & Practical SAD Completion course in response to Members’ needs for upskilling in this area in advance of BREXIT.
IIFA also holds periodic seminars for Members, free of charge, on industry relevant topics such as BREXIT, Incorporation of Standard Trading Conditions and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) VGM regulations (Verified Gross Mass) to name a few. In addition, IIFA also organises workshops with appropriate Government Departments (Revenue Customs, Agriculture) when necessary to facilitate a dialogue between industry and relevant Authorities.
Internationally, IIFA represents Ireland at CLECAT and FIATA events, voicing the concerns of the Irish industry and reporting back on developments.
The main communication between the Association and IIFA Members is through e-mail. Relevant updates from Government departments, industry relevant insights and feedback circulars from FIATA and CLECAT, along with weekly newsletters, are distributed from the Association to Member Company Representatives.
Below are samples of some recent IIFA events for Members:
Tom Thornton of IIFA talking BREXIT at 2019 National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Exhibition Citywest, 17th January 2019
Seamus Kavanagh of IIFA speaking World Customs Organisation Brussels , 15th November 2018
IIFA Standard Trading Conditions Seminar in the Offices of Kennedys Law, 30th November 2017
21st February 2017 – IIFA BREXIT Seminar
L to R, Fionn Uibh Eachach, Director VAT – KPMG Ireland, Frankie Devlin, Partner – KPMG Northern Ireland, Tom Thornton, IIFA President, Deirdre Clune – MEP Ireland/ Member of the Transport Committee – European Parliament and Guest Moderator Anton Savage. Not pictured, John McGrane, Director General, British Irish Chamber
IIFA at a Exhibition Event
IIFA hosting a Customs Awareness Seminar in DIT Aungier Street
