CTU supports calls for trucking enquiry

The CTU supports an inquiry by the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee into the working conditions of truck drivers.

A recent article in the Sunday Star Times reported that truck drivers routinely fall asleep behind the wheel, drive up to 100 hours a week, don't take any breaks and scrimp on maintenance.

CTU Secretary Peter Conway said: “This report comes as no surprise. In April 2003 a major study of labour market issues affecting truck drivers was released which highlighted a number of problems leading to long hours, safety concerns, and low pay. It was prepared for the Road Transport Forum NZ, New Zealand Forest Owners’ Association Inc and the Log Transport Safety Council by Ron Oliver, Peter Baas, Dr Tom Ludvigson and Hester Bolitho.”

Issues identified included purchasers of truck transport services taking a short-term view leading to haulage rates being squeezed below those required to maintain the general health of the transport industry and its long-term sustainability; established truck transport operators taking a short-term and unrealistic approach to tendering for work; and many new entrants to the truck industry being undercapitalised and not fully appreciating the economics of sustainable truck operation leading to undercutting cartage rates needed for sustainable operation.

Conway said, “The CTU has been calling on the industry to act on this report. Now we think it is time that the Select Committee took up these issues.”