The Irish Road Haulage Association has said the recently announced road toll hikes due to come into force in January will be "catastrophic" for the industry.
The IRHA said this will be the third toll hike in 18 months, and described the move as "hugely detrimental" to the industry.
"Hauliers are the backbone of the economy, working 24/7, 365 days a year, to ensure goods reach their destinations," said Ger Hyland, IRHA, President.
"Without us, there would be no exports or imports. Yet, we are being held hostage by the Government with these relentless charges," he added.
Mr Hyland said licensed hauliers are currently paying an average of €20,000 per month in tolls, which he said is unsustainable.
"The M50 motorway has been long since paid for, and it is high time the Government introduced toll exemptions for licensed hauliers on this motorway at a minimum," he said.
"A reduction in tolls across the board on all other routes as well for our industry is critical to ensure we can keep Ireland moving. If hauliers go out of business, the country's economy will grind to a halt," he added.
