Transporters should not be punished for the high number of stowaways illegally hitchhiking in trucks. So say transporters in VNO-NCW opinion magazine Forum.
Shift in the problem
For years, Calais in France has been the departure point for refugees from Africa and the Middle East. They board lorries in the hope of reaching England. This problem is now shifting to other parts of Europe. Hoek van Holland, IJmuiden and Zeebrugge in Belgium are now also being plagued by stowaways trying to hitch a ride.
Hefty fines and high costs
Transport companies are bearing the brunt of these practices. Not only must the business owner pay a fine, but the driver is also fined. Furthermore, costs mount up because lorries have to be taken off the road for long periods when stowaways are discovered. Added to this is the damage to the cargo. Operators therefore believe they are the victims and should not be regarded as the perpetrators. For example, Gerrit Hes, an operator at haulage firm Reining, had six illegal passengers on board within a two-week period. The costs incurred amounted to 150,000 euros. Speaking in Forum, he says it is strange that transport operators are made to foot the bill for this. “Carriers are expected to prove their innocence. I would find it more logical if the inspectors had to prove that the carrier is deliberately and knowingly smuggling stowaways.”
European approach
The trade association TLN has long been advocating (in vain) for a European approach to the problems. State Secretary Teeven of Justice has indicated that he does take the problem seriously. TLN therefore hopes to see concrete steps taken soon. “However distressing the problem of stowaways may be, it is unacceptable that the transport sector should have to foot the bill,” said TLN chairman Arthur van Dijk.
LogistiekProfs Editorial Team
Image: border post in Calais. Photo by Keith Laverack.
