AQW 3558/17-22

Mr Andrew Muir
Alliance Party
North Down

Tabled Date: 11/03/2020
Answered On Date: 18/03/2020
Priority Written: Yes

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to COVID-19, whether she plans to assist the logistics industry by (i) the temporary relaxation of drivers' hours rules; and (ii) the lifting of night-time delivery restrictions.

Answer:

I will quickly consider any requests for temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours in urgent cases where the emergency exemption does not apply. An emergency exemption can already be used, in limited circumstances, to prevent, amongst other things, danger to life or health. It can be used by operators if the Coronovirus outbreak leads to a chronic shortage of drivers, and there is an immediate need on health grounds to deliver essential supplies. This does not require prior authorisation from my Department.

In addition, a temporary relaxation of the enforcement of the rules can be considered in urgent cases where the emergency exemption would not apply. My Department’s prior agreement is required before any relaxation can take effect. Operators who are seeking a relaxation are required to provide a “Statement of Case”, justifying the relaxation request and I would ask that they contact my Department if they need to do so. I am determined that my Department will do all that it can to support communities and help alleviate, where we may, any short term consequences of the coronavirus.

In relation to the lifting of the night-time delivery restrictions, I have written to all local councils making it clear that they should temporarily withhold any planning enforcement action which could result in unnecessarily restricting deliveries of food and other essential supplies, in order to support the response to Covid-19.