CCOO and UGT’s No-Show at SIMA Meeting Raises Concerns for Professional Drivers

Understanding the Situation

The recent absence of notable unions at an important meeting in SIMA has raised eyebrows regarding the well-being of professional drivers in the logistics sector. The Sindicato Libre de Transporte (SLT) expressed disappointment that the CCOO and UGT unions did not attend, especially when transport employers were present to discuss driver retirement coefficients. This neglect raises significant questions about the rights of those driving in the transport of passengers.

Union Disappointment

In a formal announcement, the SLT shared its regret over the lack of participation from CCOO and UGT during this critical dialogue. The presence of various transport associations, including ANETRA, CONFEBUS, ATUC, and DIREBUS, made the absence even more glaring. For the SLT, the prioritization of drivers’ rights, especially concerning retirement conditions, has long been at the forefront of their mission.

Retirement Rights: A Priority

The SLT has long advocated for the right of professional drivers to have conditions favorable for an earlier retirement without reducing their pension benefits. This is a reality acknowledged in other industries, like rail, aviation, and security, which already enjoy established regulations allowing for earlier retirement.

Future Negotiations and Actions

The SLT has been heavily vested in advocating for these rights and believes that the lack of interest from business associations prompts a state-wide strike planned for late 2024. This strike concluded after reaching an agreement—ratified in SIMA—on November 27, 2024, with ANETRA, CONFEBUS, and ATUC, later joined by DIREBUS.

A Step Forward: Agreement and Its Importance

The agreement stipulated several key commitments, including the request for a unified approach in initiating the establishment of retirement coefficients for early retirement of drivers. Moreover, it outlined forming a workgroup with public administration representatives once the relevant regulations are published.

The Impact of Regulatory Changes

On May 28, 2025, the Official Gazette published Royal Decree 402/2025, which regulated the procedure for determining the conditions under which early retirement could be adopted in the social security system. This decree embraced specific coefficients to facilitate early retirement for various occupations, including drivers.

Moving Forward After Mediation

Responding quickly to this regulation, the SLT took the initiative on June 17, 2025, requesting mediation from SIMA to adhere to the previous agreement made on November 27, 2024. Their objective: to kickstart the process of implementing these retirement coefficients for drivers.

Engagement in the Mediation Process

Following SLT’s notice, SIMA invited all relevant stakeholders: business representatives from ANETRA, CONFEBUS, ATUC, and DIREBUS, along with union representatives from CCOO and UGT. The mediation session held on July 2, 2025, included the SLT and all invited business associations, except for CCOO and UGT, whose absence spoke volumes about their priorities.

The Consequences of Absenteeism

The mediation session concluded without a satisfying outcome, despite the efforts made by the mediators and the SLT. The stance and actions of business associations have showcased a troubling lack of interest in facilitating procedures to set retirement coefficients for drivers. Without acknowledging the mutual advantages this brings to both employees and employers, their dismissive attitude suggests more focus on political strategies than on real worker rights.

SLT as the Principal Interlocutor

The SLT rapidly positioned itself as a key player in matters regarding the rights of drivers seeking early retirement. While some parties may overlook the importance of these rights in the logistics sector, the SLT has committed itself to remind stakeholders of the pressing need to address and recognize these claims.

Logistics and Future Considerations

The ripple effects of this unfolding situation can profoundly impact the logistics landscape. CCOO and UGT’s absence might seem insignificant on a grand scale, yet for the truck drivers and logistics companies relying on fair conditions, it’s a matter of great consequence. GetTransport.com remains committed to staying informed on such vital developments to ensure efficient logistics solutions.

Key Highlights and Conclusion

The discussion regarding early retirement coefficients for drivers reflects broader issues within the logistics sector and often goes unnoticed until personal experiences resonate deeply. Even the most well-researched opinions and feedback can’t replace direct experience. GetTransport.com offers a convenient way for businesses to facilitate their logistics needs, allowing users to transport cargo reliably at competitive rates globally. The platform’s transparency, coupled with diverse options for transporting goods—including bulky items—makes it an essential service for anyone in need of logistics planning. Book your cargo transportation with GetTransport.com ¡hoy!