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ETF reacts to proposals for a European Port Policy

4 December 2007

The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) takes note of the Commission’s policy reorientation towards European ports. Following the withdrawal of the second Directive proposal on market access to port services (Port package II), the Commission seems to have given up the dogmatic approach by promoting, at last, a broad dialogue with port stakeholders.

While welcoming the shift in the policy focus, moving from the liberalization of port services to a holistic framework for the sector, the ETF expected its enduring plea for “more and better jobs” get stronger results in the Commission’s final document.

Changes in the industrial supply chain have led the ETF to target working conditions also in the logistics sector, where low-skilled jobs are predominant. The importance of the insertion of sea ports into the logistics process and their better connection to the hinterland have been highlighted in the communication, though implementation in this regard cannot be left to the local level alone. Coordination efforts at Community level are necessary while better links between port and regional policies should be pursued.

As labour organization in ports is concerned, the ETF reiterates that labour pools have proved to be an efficient instrument to address irregular traffic needs and cover peak periods while ensuring social sustainability. For their peculiar nature, negotiations related to labour settings and cargo-handling services should remain restricted to local and national Social Partners.

Looking into training and qualifications, the ETF believes that the Commission should promote the highest possible ‘common denominator’ in training pathways and qualification standards across Europe.

On health and safety matters, the ETF regrets the absence of specific measures. To fill the gap, the ETF invites the Commission to launch a survey that collects best and worst practices and relevant data.

Terms and conditions of port concessions have implications on labour patterns as well, though the general legislation on transfer of businesses - as cited by the Commission - does not always apply. Port operators and providers should be allowed, in certain circumstances, to benefit from optional contract prolongation clauses while certain takeovers requiring specific provisions could rely on clear subrogation mechanisms set at national level.

The ETF is committed to continue working together with other recognized Social Partners for the establishment of a formal Social Dialogue at European level.

For more information, please contact: Philippe ALFONSO
ETF Ports and Docks Section Political Secretary
Phone: (+) 32 2 285 45 84
GSM: (+) 32 496 65 79 15
Fax: (+) 32 2 280 08 17
E-mail: p.alfonso@etf-europe.org

ENDS

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