Social security debt crisis haunts taxi drivers, prompting them to petition the Government

Government petition to resolve transport sector crisis

The National Union of Transport, affiliated with the Union of Popular Syndicates, has sent an official letter to the Prime Minister’s office, calling for urgent intervention to address the difficult social and financial situation facing taxi drivers, particularly those enrolled in the non-salaried system of the National Social Security Fund.

Debt accumulation and loss of health coverage

The Union explained in its letter that a large number of professionals are facing harsh conditions due to the accumulation of debts and dues owed to the Fund. In some cases, this has resulted in the deprivation of their rights to health coverage, further deepening their living hardships.

Causes of the financial crisis

The source attributes this crisis to several overlapping factors, most notably the continuous rise in the cost of living and fuel prices, as well as the high cost of spare parts and vehicle maintenance. Added to this are irregular income streams and difficult daily working conditions, making the payment of monthly contributions nearly impossible.

Proposals and solutions presented to the Government

In this context, the Union has demanded that the government examine the possibility of waiving accumulated debts in whole or in part within the legal framework, alongside the necessity of exempting professionals from fines and surcharges, and adopting an exceptional mechanism that considers the actual financial capacity of the sector’s professionals.

Call for review of contributions and sustainable social protection

The union also called for a review of the contribution rates to align them with the specific nature of taxi operations. They also urged that eligible professionals be allowed to effectively benefit from health coverage and be reintegrated into the social protection system, emphasizing that these demands aim to open a new page that ensures future commitment from professionals under fair conditions.