The drivers of the Transport Association Region East do not have break rooms or toilets that they can use. This is unworthy in Austria in 2024, they demand solutions.
Eating, drinking, sleeping and going to the toilet are fundamental human needs. It is therefore unbelievable that the bus drivers in the VOR area (Vereniging Regio Vervoer Oost) have to fight for the latter.
They drew attention to their pressing problem on Wednesday morning by setting up a mobile eco-toilet. “Many bus workers do not even have access to toilets during their working hours, let alone sanitary facilities or break areas,” the Vida union points out. Neither at the starting or the final stops, let alone in between.
Great impudence
“For many people, the only option is to go to the countryside,” says former bus driver Andreas Bramböck. But that is humiliating and unhygienic, and an even greater burden for women. “Companies are concerned with maximizing profits; the easiest way to save money is the human factor,” adds driver Mirza Omarevic.
There have even been incredible requests, such as simply drinking less or wearing diapers.
“We just want humanity”
There is also criticism of the timetables; to keep to them, you would have to fly. Overtime is the order of the day – unpaid. “We just want some humanity,” says Omarovich. The union emphasizes: “The VOR must take better working conditions into account in the tenders.”
Nobody feels responsible
In response to a ‘Krone’ request, the VOR made it clear: ‘In our role as a service provider, we do not see ourselves as the right addressee of this protest. The duty of protection and care under labor law is clearly the responsibility of the bus companies,’ emphasizes Reinbacher Michael, head of planning and deputy of the bus services. Head of Planning. ‘In addition, we would very much appreciate a quick and adequate solution in the interest of all parties involved.’
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
