The DGB and ver.di described the policy in a joint statement issued the day before the legislation for road toll rises had its 1st reading in parliament.
“The money raised in this way [via the toll] should continue to flow exclusively into financing the transport infrastructure, i.e. asphalt, concrete and steel. DGB and ver.di are calling for the toll law to be adjusted so that freight forwarding companies have to pay at least 1 cent per kilometer driven in order to improve the often precarious working and social conditions of truck drivers on our roads,” say the unions.
The two unions believe that the truck toll recording system should be used to identify haulage companies as “causes” and indirect “beneficiaries,” and to use the revenue to finance support services for truck drivers through a kilometer-related levy.
In the opinion of the unions, the surcharge should be at least 1 cent per kilometer driven in order to end the “unspeakable conditions” in German rest areas and truck stops – a demand that is also made by the Sozialmaut eV association.
To be specific, the unions state that income generated in this way should be used for the following:
- free drinking water supply
- free use of toilets, showers and heated lounges
- free care in the event of medical emergencies
- social work at rest areas and truck stops (e.g. via a telephone hotline to be set up)
- appropriate, affordable food and drink
Commenting on the proposal, Stefan Körzell , DGB board member, said:
“We demand that the planned toll increase be adjusted so that – financed by companies – at least 1 cent per kilometer driven is invested for truck drivers in order to improve the conditions at rest areas and truck stops. As long as the laws continue to leave gaps for unspeakable dumping If the business models of freight forwarding companies are left behind, immediate help is required. The infrastructure in and at the rest areas must be expanded and free of charge for drivers to use. This includes free drinking water, the use of toilets, showers and heated lounges. Also care in the event of medical emergencies as well as social work in rest areas and truck stops must be available free of charge. Food and drinks must be affordable.”
Andrea Kocsis, deputy chairwoman of ver.di, added:
“As the number one transit country in Europe, Germany has a special responsibility in this regard.”