Although I have never run a bodyshop, or indeed picked up a spray gun in
anger, I have been involved in the accident repair industry in various roles for the best part of 25 years. During this time, I have gained a good understanding of the challenges that bodyshop operators face and the difficulties of running a business in this, often-complex market. I have also noticed that in recent years, a variety of problems have meant that things have made the life of the repairer more and more difficult. Speaking to many repairers, you also get a sense that they feel vulnerable and that no one seems to be fighting their corner, as various issues pose a real threat to their future.
Against this background, I was delighted to hear of the exploits of a group of repairers from Mayo, who were no longer prepared to sit back and let things get worse for the industry. Instead, they decided to organise themselves into an association to represent their interests. Several months on and they have made some very significant progress on issues such as engaging with authorities on compliance issues, organising training and promoting member interests.
Getting the VRA to where it is today, while also running their own bodyshops has been a great achievement for everyone involved in the organisation. Becoming a national representative body is the next challenge for the VRA and I am very pleased to be able to offer my own support to the organisation in a coordinating role.
The recent successful meeting in Galway was the first tentative step to getting the VRA on a national footing. Over the coming weeks we will be organising more meetings in other areas. We will also be re-contacting all the repairers who responded to last year’s survey, keeping them informed of latest developments and asking for their support.
The VRA can only be effective and successful with the support of repairers throughout Ireland.
If you would like to join the organisation, or you would like to help organise and establish it in your area please contact me, Jon Pulsford, on 087-271-0524. For more information on the VRA please visit www.vra.ie.
