Canadian Groups At Loggerheads Over Hours Enforcement

A Canadian truck drivers group, upset at high diesel prices, is challenging the Ontario government to do complete safety audits of all trucking companies in the province over the objections of another industry organization.

Bill Wellman, president of the National Truckers Association, a group of independent owner-operators in Ontario, called for the audits, alleging that drivers, pushed by high fuel costs and no offsetting fuel surcharges, are operating more hours than the rules allow to make ends meet.

The Ontario Trucking Association, which represents trucking companies, denied the allegation and said Wellman’s statements amounted to “fear-mongering.”

“NTA’s suggestion that abuse of the regulations is widespread and flagrant is not supported by evidence. Such statements will not win public support for action to reduce fuel prices. It smacks too much of self-interest,” said David Bradley, president of OTA.

For the full story, see the Jan. 29 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.