IRU and EU Jobs and Social Rights Commissioner Nicolas Schmit met to discuss key social developments threatening the road transport industry and the broader EU economy. IRU, together with its member Fédération Luxembourgeoise des Exploitants d’Autobus et d’Autocars (FLEAA), met European Commissioner Nicolas Schmit to discuss current social issues and future developments that are particularly concerning for the EU road transport industry.

The heads of several major international organisations met in Geneva yesterday to finalise recommendations for future public health emergencies drawn out of the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of road transport operations and drivers, especially those crossing borders, were confronted with thousands of uncoordinated government restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. This resulted in rapidly changing national rules and restrictions which made it difficult to keep supply and mobility chains open.

Brussels, 24 January 2023 – In a letter to the Swedish Presidency of the EU Council, two major transport organisations have called for the revision of the EU Driving Licence Directive to lower the minimum driving age for professional drivers. The EU road transport sector is facing an unprecedented and severe driver shortage that is expected to triple by 2026 if no action is taken.

Investing in people pays great dividends. Well-trained drivers have fewer accidents, are more efficient and have greater job satisfaction. Sustainable economic growth and job creation require a thriving road transport sector backed by a trained and motivated workforce. The highest training standards are essential for supply chains and transport networks to operate safely and efficiently.