The chair of the REC Drivers' Sector group says concerns over managed services provider de Poel's controversial driver data base need to be aired now.

In a statement to Recruiter, Andrew Horner acknowledged "a growing recognition" that it was time for everyone involved in business arrangements with de Poel to discuss driver agencies' concerns.

Driver agencies contend that working with Cheshire-based de Poel is often unprofitable for them. A key concern is a drivers data base held by de Poel that costs agencies £500 to access.

"Every agency knows that their contacts are the life blood of their business, and it is not clear if this database service adds any value to de Poel's offering," Horner told Recruiter.

At press deadlines, Horner was set to meet with de Poel on 4 September.

"We're delighted to be meeting with the REC again on Monday, and addressing issues head on," de Poel managing director Matthew Sanders said last week.

De Poel's presence in the market has raised concerns for some in the recruitment industry because, since it does not supply drivers directly, it is not covered by certain legislation governing recruiters.