A recommendation has been made for tanker drivers and haulage contractors to be paid per litre, and by distance covered, instead of by the hour.

It was made by the joint petroleum working group, which was set up to examine and recommend, a minimum economic rate, and related improvements to employment conditions for tanker drivers.

Energy Minister Daryl Vaz told parliament on Tuesday that, the group agreed on a minimum economic rate of, $1000 per hour, based on the industry norms, in relation to hazardous materials and risk factors.

This represents a 270 percent increase, in relation to the lowest rate paid to tanker drivers, which equated to about 370 dollars per hour, or 14, 640 dollars, for a 40-hour work week.

Mr Vaz said the agreed haulage contractor and tanker driver rates, were translated from hourly rates, to a per litre, per trip basis.

The minister also stated that the group also drafted a safety driver manual for improved training and up–skilling, in keeping with international best practices.