Requirement for hauliers to test negative for COVID-19 before travel to France

Following the decision of the French Government, all commercial vehicle drivers travelling from Ireland to France from Thursday, 28th January, will be required to have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result. Proof of a negative test result will be required to board ferries and to enter France. We have been advised by the French authorities that this will apply to drivers travelling on any ferry setting sail from Ireland to France after 11pm (Irish time) on Wednesday.

The Department of Transport, in conjunction with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Wexford County Council, is working extensively to finalise the opening of State-supported antigen testing facilities for hauliers. These tests will be made available free of charge at dedicated testing sites near the ports of Dublin and Rosslare. Tests will only be provided to hauliers who are travelling to France or other countries where a negative COVID-19 test is required for entry. Drivers also have the option of getting tested at the many private facilities around the country as long as these tests meet the French requirements, but these costs will not be covered by the State – see https://covid-19.sante.gouv.fr/tests

The Department of Transport is liaising closely with the haulage industry and shipping sector with regard to the introduction of these new testing requirements for commercial vehicle drivers. The Department will be issuing guidance directly to the haulage representative organisations and ferry operators and to all international licensed haulage operators.

Further detail to be announced when finalised.

ENDS