Food couriers’ conditions are irregular, but solving the problem is complex

An investigation into food couriers found that the employment conditions of delivery drivers are irregular and unlawful but solving the problem is far more complex than simply getting in line with the law.

One recruitment agency tried it recently, only to see half of its drivers quit within a month.

The investigation into the food delivery business, carried out by the Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) last year, found that food couriers were not getting enough time to rest and that their employers were deducting money from their first salary to pay for their attire and work equipment.

The probe also found that the drivers’ employment contracts were “not in line with the Employment and Industrial Relations Act”.

It also revealed that statutory bonuses and COLA are not always paid, overtime, sick leave and vacation leave are not covered, work carried out on public holidays is compensated at a flat rate and that the proof of payment does not correspond to the payslips.

Despite sporting the typical, distinguishing Bolt and Wolt jackets and backpacks, most delivery drivers are not employed directly by either of the two food delivery platforms.

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