MEPs call for end to self-employed WTD exemption

The European Parliament has called upon the European Commission to swiftly propose reforms to the European Union’s (EU) working time directive so that self-employed drivers, including HGV drivers, are in fact included from March 2009.

In a detailed motion, MEPs claimed that the existing exemption from the rules for self-employed drivers such as HGV drivers was being commonly abused. They noted

“the importance of addressing the industry malpractice of classifying many employees falsely as self-employed drivers”

The parliament claimed there was a

“general view within the transport sector that self-employed drivers should be included”

within EU working time legislation. And it added that under the existing system “it would be extremely difficult from a legal point of view to identify and pursue “bogus” self-employed workers, not to mention the practical and bureaucratic difficulties (required) to prevent this concept from being widely exploited to evade the restrictions on working days.”

As a result, the motion recommended that the directive’s

“scope is extended to include self-employed workers”

by March 23 next year – an ambitious target given the EU’s generally slow decision making.

Green Party MEP Mary Lou McDonald said:

“Compliance with rules for driving, working time and rest periods are basic requirements for ensuring road safety and the health and safety of drivers and passengers.”