andMr. O'Donnell asked the Minister for Labour the nature and implications for Ireland of the current EEC proposals in relation to harmonisation of social legislation in regard to road transport.
Written Answers. - EEC Road Transport Proposals.
285.
I assume the Deputies are referring to formal proposals by the Commission of the European Communities in relation to the harmonisation of social legislation in regard to road transport. Certain proposals to make amendments and additions to the EEC Road Transport Regulation No. 543/69 (which provides, inter alia, for the limitation of time spent driving, the timing and duration of breaks and rest periods), have been before the Council of Transport Ministers since 1976. These proposals relate to the following matters:
(a) a revised definition of the week for purposes of allowing the weekly rest period of road transport workers;
(b) the introduction of rules for "spreadovers" which would regulate total working time of such workers, as compared with the present rules which relate primarily to driving time, daily and weekly rest periods and breaks;
(c) revised provisions for breaks;
(d) minimum annual leave for such workers; and
(e) reduction in frequency of the Annual Report on the Social Regulations.
If the Deputies wish to have full details of the Commission's proposals some of which are very complex, I shall be glad to let them have them.
While these proposals are still before the Council, there is no indication that any of them are likely to be adopted at an early date. So far as Ireland is concerned we are, as Deputies are aware, in the process of "phasing in" the implementation of the existing social regulations, including the regulations relating to the tachograph, in the period up to 1 January 1981.