Geneva, Switzerland: The International Road Transport Union and the International Transport Workers’ Federation have jointly calledg for support from governments for supply chains to remain connected during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The organisation wants road transport designation as a key service, recognition of the vital role of drivers, and protection of key workers during the Covid-19 response. They also call for guarantees to the safety and well-being of drivers passing through cross-border logistics and support for road transport small and medium-sized enterprises.
They urge national, regional and international bodies to plan ahead and provide financial assistance for the road transport industry, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises – in order to support the continuity and resilience of mobility and supply chains.
“The role of road transport in ensuring economic viability and continuity is essential and should be recognised as such at the national and international levels through concrete actions that support the industry’s present and future success,” they said in a joint statement.
Umberto de Pretto, secretary general, IRU said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has turned the spotlight on road transport – showing once more the indispensable role road transport companies and their workers play in the movement of essential goods.
“Support for the continuity and resilience of supply and mobility chains, and the designation of road transport as a key service must be prioritised by governments and international bodies to aid the response and recovery from this crisis.”
Stephen Cotton, general secretary, ITF said: “Drivers are the most important factor keeping the road transport industry moving. Collectively, IRU and ITF are urging governments to recognise drivers as key workers and award them the same protections as other vital service workers during the Covid-19 response. Protecting the viability of companies, and the health, incomes and jobs of drivers is fundamental to getting through the pandemic.”
