NEWS
On the other hand they were the ones out there risking their own health to keep the country running. And dealing with new necessities – like sometimes having to work in disposable overalls, masks and gloves….as well as always keeping a safe distance from others. Even, in some cases, having to sign declarations every time they entered food suppliers’ premises – stating that they hadn’t travelled overseas in the past two weeks.
And while the truck drivers carting essential freight were “doing jobs they love,” as Leggett pointed out, they were also “more isolated than usual….from their whānau and colleagues.”
And he added: “Our economy and wellbeing are tethered to trucking. My view is that these workers and transport operators have not perhaps had the recognition and thanks they deserve.”
Not only missing out on recognition – but not even getting the basics! As one linehaul freight driver alerted NZ Truck & Driver, while these essential workers were out there on our behalf……they were being denied essentials of their own.
Like meals: With takeaways, cafes, pubs and restaurants all closed under the terms of the lockdown, drivers suddenly found themselves short of a place to stop and have a feed.
And, worse still, like toilets: Some gas stations