News Over 1000 bus and coach drivers ready to walk out if European Commission revisits driving and rest time rules A 2023 ETF survey reached out to over 1300 bus and coach drivers across Europe and found that 80% of drivers would consider leaving the industry if the European Commission moved forward with its proposal to revise driving and rest time rules in coach tourism services.
Issues Mobility Package: Next Steps From July 2020 a new set of EU rules covering market and social aspects governs road transport in the EU, both for passenger and freight. Now the Package needs to be supported by a series of concrete legally-binding implementation measures and guidance on how rules have to be applied and enforced. The ETF is on it!
Projects Trade Unions and Drivers for Safer Roads in Europe The driver’s profession is today more stressful and dangerous than it once was. Fatigue makes it harder for drivers to maintain vigilance, alertness and decision-making capacity in passengers safely to destination. ETF launches Safer Roads project, to raise awareness about driver fatigue and to improve safety on EU roads.
Statement February 29, 2024 The Parliament’s Vote on Revised Driving License Rules Spells Disaster for the Sector The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) is deeply troubled by the outcome of yesterday’s vote in the European Parliament regarding revised rules for driving licenses. ETF is especially concerned about the proposal to require all EU Member States to allow 17-year-old lorry drivers to drive heavy goods vehicles. The decision on minimum age requirements marks a significant setback in efforts to ensure road safety and prioritise the improvement of working conditions for drivers across Europe.
Press Release February 19, 2024 ETF Raises Concerns Over Changes to EU Driving License Rules In view of the European Parliament’s upcoming debate and vote on changes to driving license rules in the EU, the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) voices its concerns regarding the proposed reduction in the minimum age for truck and bus licenses. Last December, the TRAN Committee backed the Commission’s proposal to issue truck driving licenses to 17-year-olds, under the accompanied driving license scheme. At the same time, the reduction in the recommended minimum age for truck driving to 18 across the EU poses a further threat to road safety, as it will cause more Member States to follow suit.
Statement December 13, 2023 ETF Criticizes Approved Flexibilization Rules in Bus and Coach The European Transport Workers’ Federation has expressed significant disappointment following the recent parliamentary approval of further flexibilization in organising breaks and rest for road passenger transport workers. The ETF, a leading voice in advocating for workers’ rights in the transportation sector, views these changes as a step backwards in ensuring a fair and safe working environment.