Shortage of professional drivers
10.1.2024
Question for written answer E-000071/2024/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 138
Roman Haider (ID)
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has found that 7 % of driver positions worldwide are vacant. The driver shortage in the EU has not increased, by comparison with 2022, because of falling demand within transport. It is worrying, however, that one third of all drivers are over 55, the proportion of female drivers is very low (at 6 %), as is the proportion of drivers under 25, which is less than 5 % in the EU. Without effective action, this is likely to exacerbate the driver shortage[1]. The high training, licensing and qualification costs are a major factor responsible for the low proportion of young drivers. Hauliers are facing ever-increasing costs such as wages, fuel, vehicle expenses and investments for reaching environmental targets, which cost considerably more than expected. The aim of the ‘Women in Transport – EU Platform for Change’ initiative is to strengthen women in the transport sector[2].
- 1.Is the Commission planning further initiatives to improve the accessibility and affordability of training courses?
- 2.Are there any Commission proposals for support measures to cover the costs concerned?
- 3.How successful has the abovementioned initiative been to date?
Submitted:10.1.2024