The Efling negotiating committee and representatives of Eimskip signed a special collective agreement on April 28 for Eimskip’s drivers. Negotiations with the company on behalf of dock workers are still ongoing, but there is hope that an agreement can be reached soon.
Work on the demands began late last year, with the participation of shop stewards and other Efling members from among the drivers and dock workers employed by Eimskip. Negotiations have been underway for quite some time and have yielded this result.
Among the key issues emphasized by the Efling negotiating committee—and which were successfully included in the agreement—was that priority clauses in the contract would also apply to overtime. In addition, a pay grade increase was secured for jobs requiring a heavy vehicle (Category C) driving license. Likewise, positions requiring so-called ADR certification (a license to transport hazardous materials) will move up two pay grades. Special payments that had not been increased since 2022 will be raised retroactively by 3.25% from February 1, 2024, by 3.5% from January 1, 2025, and by an additional 5% from that same date.
A working group composed of drivers and managers will also be formed to review and clarify procedures for drivers. This will include matters such as communication with customers, procedures related to delivery, such as weight, scope, and delivery location, vehicle safety, including tire condition, and the process for reporting safety concerns.
Sólveig Anna Jónsdóttir, chair of Efling, warmly welcomed the new agreement.
“It was a fantastic group of Efling members that made up the negotiating committee with Eimskip. They attended every meeting united and fought for their priorities. With union members leading all negotiations, Efling achieves results. That is once again seen here.”