Routiers submit petition to EEC
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ROUTIERS Drivers' Club have submitted a formal claim to the EEC Parliament for compensation for financial losses suffered by British lorry' drivers during the French blockades. RDC feels justified in this, as the French authorities made no efforts to protect foreign drivers from being trapped in a situation not of their making.
"We are lorry drivers in the road haulage industry, of British nationality. Between 17 February and 24 February, 1984, severe disruption to intra Community traffic was caused on the French-Italian border following a lorry blockade in that region. As a result we and a substantial number of other British lorry drivers suffered financial loss, for which we now seek compensation.
"The cause and nature of the loss is documented and consists mainly of loss of earnings, additional expenses incurred, damage to vehicles and other forms of uninsured losses (load spoiled, tyres slashed, personal articles stolen).
"Further, we draw your attention to the French Law which declares that the State is by civil law responsible for injury and loss resulting from crimes and delicts committed by overt force or by violence, by groups or assemblies armed or unarmed, whether against person or property.
"In addition, redress can be sought against the commune, when it has responsibility for such events. In this particular instance, indemnification is sought from the French Government, who have publicly admitted their liability and given the assurance that all drivers will be compensated. Such compensation must be paid to all lorry drivers who incurred losses, whatever their nationality.
"As a direct result of the action of the French lorry drivers in operating the lorry blockade during February 1984, a number of drivers have suffered loss, for which we now seek compensation.
"This incident highlights a breach of one of the fundamental principles of community law, namely, freedom of movement. Commercial drivers should not be exposed to such incidents and resultant financial losses, and indeed, their freedom of movement should be safeguarded by the authorities in each Member State."