RHA has reiterated its call for a professional driver exemption from the 90-days-in-180 restriction on non-EU/EEA citizens in the Schengen area, enforcement of which will tighten under the EU Entry/Exit System (EES).
The trade body has underlined that position following news that EES, which will register individuals from ‘third countries’ entering and exiting Schengen, is to be introduced from 10 November. That was confirmed on 16 August by EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johannson.
In her announcement, Ms Johansson said that EES will allow close monitoring of third countries’ citizens time in Schengen countries. Where the 90-days-in-180 restriction is exceeded, what she describes as “an immediate warning” will be sounded.
Enforcement of that restriction is understood to be light-touch currently, and hence it has had little impact so far. But RHA is concerned that when things become stricter under EES, the effect of the change in approach will be significant for coach operators.
“We support a professional drivers’ exemption from Schengen restrictions for those who are transporting goods or people between the UK and the EU, and we would welcome the chance to develop this policy with the new government,” an RHA spokesperson says.
They highlight how a survey across RHA membership earlier in 2024 showed that with strict enforcement of Schengen restrictions, 56% of transport businesses expect to reduce journeys into that zone.
The Association adds that it continues to engage with ports and other stakeholders to ensure that sufficient dedicated facilities for drivers are available at crossing points, especially during peak periods. It also wants the government to ensure that all preparations for EES are in place and tested ahead of the 10 November introduction.
