Truck drivers fed up being targets of motorway pirates says Unite
30th July 2009
Unite, the UK’s largest union, reiterated its calls for a total
overhaul of the UK's system of truckstops. Unite's call comes as a
survey out today (Thursday) reveals that thefts from lorries have
risen by 63 per cent in the past year, with most taking place while
drivers are parked up and asleep.
Earlier this year, Unite launched its Truckstop campaign to push
for safe and affordable truckstops across the UK, amid growing
concerns that poor, unsafe truck stop facilities made truck drivers
easy crime targets particularly while drivers are parked up and
asleep.
Len McCluskey, Unite assistant general secretary, said: “This
survey confirms our haulage members’ experiences, which is that
crime is a growing problem for truck drivers. The only way to
address this and keep both drivers and their cargoes safe is to
provide decent and safe facilities for haulage drivers.
“Lorry driving is a tough job and drivers need to know they have
safe and affordable overnight parking in truckstops offering them a
good night’s rest. We’re fighting to make our roads safer for
professional drivers, but government and the industry must lead
here to provide secure parking and overnight accommodation and
stop, once and for all, the motorway pirates who prey on truck
drivers.”
The survey was carried out by Truckersworld. Freight crime is
believed to cost the economy some £250 million a year
Unite’s campaign for safe truckstops was launched in February
this year. Truckstop is pushing for a cross-industry strategy to
ensure professional drivers have somewhere decent and safe when
they park up overnight.
ENDS
For further information please contact Karen Viquerat on 01704
546 500 or 07768 931 316.
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