Driving times and rest periods of bus drivers
More flexibility or more regulation?
IF – 09/2023
Before the summer break, the European
Commission presented a
proposal to amend Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 as regards minimum requirements
for minimum breaks and minimum daily and weekly rest periods in the passenger
transport sector. This provides for flexibility of the fixed rest periods
for drivers of tourist buses.
On the road across Europe
The
occupational group of coach drivers is not comparable to truck or regular bus
drivers. Especially during seasonal peaks, such as the summer and winter
months, longer distances have to be travelled. To protect drivers, it is
essential to have working conditions, minimum breaks and rest periods that take
this into account. In order to meet physical needs in a more flexible way and
to improve the quality of life and road safety, the European Commission is
calling for more flexible rest periods.
Stop regulatory overreach
Mid-September, the European Parliament discussed
the dossier in the lead Transport Committee (TRAN) and in the co-advisory
Committee on Social Affairs and Employment (EMPL). The rapporteurs Henna
Virkkunen (EPP/FIN) for the TRAN Committee and Marianne Vind (S&D/DK) for
the EMPL Committee gave a first assessment. During the discussion, the MEPs
basically saw no need to introduce more regulations, but uphold the existing
harmonised rules for road and freight transport, to which Regulation (EC) No
561/2006 refers. However, due to the stressful working day, many night trips
and an increased degree of fatigue, the lack of balance between work and family
and a regular working day should also be taken into account, according to the
rapporteurs. Therefore, drivers should take their breaks without any regulatory
overreach. Many MPs are critical of flexibility, as otherwise the fixed breaks
would not be observed or, in the worst case, would not be taken at all.
There is still need for discussion between the institutions
The final report of the European Parliament
will be finalised this year, but MEPs do not expect a quick agreement with the
European Commission. During the debate in the EMPL Committee, the latter
already expressed its "disappointment" with the contents
of the submitted draft report.