Pro-Drive Ireland - a transport educational service sets up in Ballinasloe

By Donogh Moore

​A new transport-educational service has been set up in the town recently, in the form of Pro-Drive Ireland. James Folan, originally from Newbridge, Co. Kildare, moved to Balliansloe over three years ago, after stints spent both in the UK and Galway City working in various jobs in the transport industry. After spending two years in Galway, he relocated to Ballinasloe as he felt the town would be an ideal location to set up a business of his own, due to its far-reaching rail and road network, as well as other services the town had to offer.

After spending some time settling into the area, James quickly made friends and connections across the town. “All of these people that I met had a passion and loved to speak about the local community and its history, which I hadn’t seen the likes of in a long time. It was truly welcoming, to be part of a community that really loved their town.” It was then that James heard of the new group establishing itself, to help both budding entrepreneurs and established businesses as they encountered different issues in their day-to-day transactions.

“The Pulse Club offered a place where people, all at different stages of their business careers, could meet up and chat to like-minded individuals, whether it be to discuss issues they’ve faced or ask each other about different techniques. At the time of my joining, the idea for a company that I had was just that – an idea. I, like many others, was reluctant to take that first big step, to give up a full-time, paying job, and set up a company in my specific area of expertise.

“At one of the meetings, I spoke up and explained my situation to the group. All of the other members, who ranged from being employed, self-employed or company owners, told me to follow my idea and “go for it! What have you got to lose?” Without the help, support and guidance of not only the leaders, but also the members of the Pulse Club, my business would still be a thought in my head. I feel that now I have a lot of information that I can share with other members on the intricacies of starting their own businesses.”

Some three months on, Pro-Drive Ireland is trading on a full-time basis, and since its beginning three new staff members have joined James to meet the demands. The business is an education service, that offers drivers of trucks and buses periodic training as set out by the RSA, which allows them to continue driving professionally and safely through yearly in-class training. They also offer other services such as Manual Handling training, Safepass training, Forklift training, CPC Case Studies and Driver ETB training.. Training is delivered through a variety of venues in the midlands including The Creggan Court Hotel and tailormade to suit the needs of the trainee. They are currently seeking suitable premises locally. To avail of any of the above services, or for more information, please visit Pro-DriveIreland.ie, or find them on Facebook.