Dumping documented

Used for influence

Union leader of the Norwegian Industrial Traffic Association Jim Klungnes points out the importance of the work the union is doing in connection with the investigation.

– The survey is necessary to document YS/YTF's demand for the continuation of the generalization, but is also used to influence politics. Among other things, we demand more and better controls. Controls work. We also use the figures to raise awareness about the problem and set the agenda in the social debate, Klungnes elaborates.

The results

Among the key figures in the border survey, we can mention that:

If we take out the Scandinavian drivers (Swedish, Danish and Norwegian), the numbers were as follows:

• 9.8% earned 600 euros or less

• 43% earn 1,600 euros or less (under NOK 15,000 per month)

The general minimum wage for truck drivers is NOK 167.65 per hour. For a regular full-time position, it is NOK 27,327 per month. At the time of the survey, this corresponds to EUR 2,892. In addition, they must have a daily allowance when they spend the night away from home.

Klungnes has no doubts about how the numbers should be interpreted.

– This is not surprising social dumping. It goes without saying that it is difficult for Norwegian companies to compete on equal terms when foreign companies can get away with paying for buttons and glossy photos, concludes Klungnes.

The way forward

Improving conditions for the freight industry is a priority for YTF. The union leader has a clear view of what needs to be done.

– Of course, we promise our members that we will continue to work hard to introduce measures that work. Our response to this challenge includes increased pressure on wage and employment regulations for foreign drivers, more and better controls where the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority and the Norwegian Public Roads Administration cooperate, the establishment of a mandatory register for foreign transports in Norway and accountability for those who purchase the transports. As a party-politically independent association, we have the opportunity to influence all parties in this matter. It is an opportunity that we are actively using, concludes Klungnes.