IRU and ETF re-energise social dialogue on logistics

IRU and ETF, the European social partners in the road transport sector, agree to re-boost social dialogue on logistics.

The IRU (international Road Transport Union) and ETF (European Transport Workers Federation), as the two most representative organisations of road transport logistics processes and employment, agreed to immediately implement their joint recommendations on training and employment in logistics.

Specifically, the social partners have committed to:
- develop the practical implementation of clear job definitions for non-mobile logistics workers;
- rigorously apply training requirements to ensure safe operation of equipment used by non-mobile logistics workers; and
- complete ‘a framework of actions for the lifelong development of competencies and qualifications’ in logistics

The IRU and ETF are also committed to promoting the results of the 2004 NOVALOG project whose goals include: connecting national and European employment and training initiatives in logistics; valorising and providing innovative training and qualification practices* and participating in the development of training courses with a qualitative focus.

Furthermore, within the boundaries of their sector-based expertise, the social partners will liaise with the European Commission in order to contribute to the social dimension of the EC Action Plan on Logistics, which calls for an EU-wide approach for the recognition of qualifications for workers in logistics.

Finally, the social partners will seek to identify additional issues to broaden the range of their joint activities in this field, which will lead to the establishment of a sound and far-reaching social dialogue platform capable of driving forward future joint achievements in logistics.