The hauliers highlighted the lack of drivers as a major problem facing the sector. They say the business needs 3,000 bus and truck drivers. The issue of shortening the time for obtaining a work permit for drivers from outside the European Union was raised, as well as the creation of a targeted state policy for the training of personnel in Bulgaria.
The Minister of Transport and Communications Georgi Gvozdeykov said that he would raise this issue with all responsible institutions so that the best solution could be found. Experiences in other European countries will also be explored.
‘The transport sector policy will be made together with the industry so that it is updated. In my face you can see a partner. I will look for a balance to solve the problems, protecting the interests of the business, the state and the people’, Minister Gvozdeykov stressed.
Issues related to the introduction of the European legislation on the commissioning of drivers, the toll system, taking action to tackle unregulated transport, accelerating regulatory changes in the sector, as well as preserving funds in the budget for subsidies and compensation of bus transport were also discussed.
‘I expect the most urgent and key priorities to be addressed as soon as possible together with your representatives and experts from the ministry,’ Georgi Gvozdeykov said.
