Coronavirus

Union responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and a strong recovery that puts social first were at the heart of discussions when ETF affiliates came together online last week.

ETF and other European Trade Union Federations have updated their Joint European Trade Union Federations’ Recommendations to EWC/SE Coordinators and worker representatives in SNBs, EWCs and SEs on temporary arrangements for transnational meetings during the COVID-19 crisis.

ETF addressed a letter to European Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, calling for no further derogations from the driving and rest hours regulation and the reintroduction of the ban on weekly rest in the vehicle.

ETF is shocked and devasted to learn of the death of Belly Mujinga, TSSA union member and railway ticket officer for Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) Southern, who died of Coronavirus in April after being spat on by a member of the public while carrying out her duties.

ETF calls on governments and competent authorities managing public transport services, railway companies and infrastructure managers as well as all sub-contractors delivering services to the railways to recognize the importance of railway workers and to respect their health and safety, employment, financial stability and collective rights. Our statement lays out what should be done to protect railway workers, and looks towards the future of railways after COVID-19.

As the reality of COVID-19 sets in, it is time to start planning Europe's recovery. The keyword in this recovery plan? Solidarity.

While some action has been taken by the European Commission to address the issues related to COVID-19, much more is required to ensure the safety and wellbeing of transport workers. ETF responds to this situation with a letter to Commissioner Vălean.

The COVID-19 outbreak stopped many fishing activities due to lack of demand and restrictive measures. The ETF welcomes the announcement of the Commission to compensate fishermen through the EMFF.