Too late to reverse new vehicle height rules

Farmers have missed the boat on getting concessions to ease the impact of the maximum vehicle height of 4.65 metres (15 feet and three inches), which became a legal requirement on November 1, says Transport Minister Leo Varadkar.

He said the intention to introduce a 4.65m limit was announced in January, 2007, following public consultation. Due to representations from industry, it was agreed that a five-year derogation would apply to vehicles registered, licensed or in use prior to Nov 1, 2008.

This derogation (which expired on Oct 31 last) allowed vehicles operating at heights in excess of the new limits to be withdrawn from use in Ireland.