Nats block enquiry into truck safety


Labour’s Transport Safety spokesperson Darien Fenton says she is disappointed the National Party voted against holding an enquiry into the link between truck safety and low rates of pay.

“It’s very clear from the evidence of the drivers who have come forward that there is a significant safety problem in the industry,” Ms Fenton said.

“The method of contracting for owner drivers and the resulting low rates of pay mean that many truck drivers are driving too fast, working hours way beyond safety levels and cutting back on maintenance to earn a living.

"With at least one truck related death a week and a social cost to the New Zealand economy of $400.2 million in truck related fatal, injury and non-injury crashes last year, I’m surprised that the government is prepared to look the other way.”

Darien Fenton says that the issue is not going to go away and she is not deterred by the government’s refusal to address the issue.

“I intend to launch a parliamentary petition and lodge a members’ bill to promote greater fairness in contract negotiations so that truck drivers can earn a fair and decent living.

“I’m encouraging truck drivers to come forward to tell their stories – good and bad.

“Even if the National Government doesn’t want to hear from truckies, Labour does,” Ms Fenton said.

ENDS

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