Same work. Same roads. Same rights

The collective agreements recently signed in the food courier sector are far more than legal documents. They represent a historic step forward and a clear declaration that this industry can – and must – operate with responsibility, clear standards and respect for its workforce.

For far too long, thousands of food couriers have provided an essential service to the public, working in all weather conditions and at all hours of the day. Yet, many have continued to face uncertainty, limited protection and working conditions that fall short of the basic standards every worker deserves.

The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has been at the forefront of changing this reality. We listened to workers, organised them and led negotiations that resulted in the sector’s first collective agreements. These agreements introduce basic pay, clearer terms and conditions of employment, and effective trade union representation for food couriers.

We also acknowledge those operators who chose to take this responsible step forward. They have demonstrated that it is possible to remain competitive while respecting workers’ rights and providing fair employment conditions.

However, we must be clear: this is only the beginning.

This very week, the GWU was once again informed of serious allegations of abuse and unfair practices that continue to exist within parts of the sector. At this stage, we will not name specific companies. However, our message is direct: any operator that still believes it can build its business by keeping workers in unfair conditions is mistaken.

It cannot be acceptable for responsible companies that invest in their workforce and comply with fair employment standards to be placed at a competitive disadvantage by others that seek to reduce labour costs at the expense of workers’ rights. Such practices are unfair to workers and create an uneven playing field for responsible businesses.

The GWU will not accept a two-tier workforce within the same sector. It cannot be right that two food couriers performing the same work, travelling the same roads and facing the same pressures should receive different levels of protection, security and dignity simply because they work for different operators.

This is about far more than food couriers- Kevin Abela

The principle is straightforward: the same work must mean the same rights.

Profit should never be built on exploitation or on undermining workers’ dignity. Fair competition does not mean paying the lowest wages or offering the least protection. Fair competition means clear rules, decent pay, safe working conditions and respect for every worker.

For this reason, the GWU will continue to push for all operators in the sector to meet fair and responsible employment standards. We will continue to organise workers, engage with the relevant authorities and use every available avenue to ensure that no employer is allowed to undermine the progress that has already been achieved.

This is about far more than food couriers.

It is about the future of a fair labour market, where everyone performing the same work is entitled to the same respect, the same protection and the same opportunities.

Same work. Same roads. Same rights.

Kevin Abela is Deputy Secretary General of the GWU.