Future transport policy needs to integrate all elements of the supply chain, including infrastructure, transport services and systems logistics, according to the Forfas chief executive, Mr John Travers.

Commenting on its new report on transport issued yesterday, Mr Travers warned that companies in this sector must focus on cutting costs, improving customer service and speeding order processing to cope with the more demanding international market. The report recommends a minimum 15 year period should be taken when planning infrastructural investment, operated on a rolling basis with five year reviews.

Financial and tax incentives, including a 10 per cent rate of corporation tax, should be extended to systems logistics activities to make the sector more competitive, it says.

Other recommendations include the completion of the northern port access route to Dublin Port and the establishment of a joint Irish and British executive and policy transport initiative to ensure the smooth integration of port facilities with road and rail links.