For drivers who are currently in the United Kingdom (UK), it is becoming difficult to return to the Netherlands in time, according to industry association TLN, as drivers will no longer be able to travel back and forth unhindered.
Goods transport is exempt from travel restrictions to and from the UK, yet the coronamutation has closed the border crossing from the UK's Dover to France's Calais. TLN therefore expects chaos in the British port town. The motorways to Dover were closed on Monday morning to stop freight traffic to the European Union. It is unclear how many truck drivers are currently stuck in the UK. Several hundred drivers drive to the UK every day, "and they have to return at some point," TLN said.
Ferry services to Hoek van Holland and IJmuiden are still sailing. Not for passengers, but for stranded drivers. FNV and TLN are appealing to the cabinet to ensure that drivers return to their families before Christmas. "For that, the ferry services should stay open as much as possible," they said.
TLN advises against manned transports to the UK until further notice.
Update 22-12: France and the United Kingdom have agreed on the resumption of freight traffic between the two countries. From Wednesday 23 December, shipments from the UK will resume. The exact conditions are still being negotiated.
Image: Aeronautics / Shutterstock.com
