Ontario Trucking Association Responds to Driver Shortage with Foreign Workers Proposal
The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) has highlighted a critical shortage of truck drivers in Ontario, proposing that the solution lies in bringing in foreign workers. According to the OTA, the long-haul trucking profession is not appealing to locals, which is contributing to the labor shortfall.
Opposition from Teamsters Canada
Teamsters Canada, the nation’s largest transportation union, disagrees with the OTA’s proposal, arguing that trucking companies should prioritize enhancing working conditions and increasing wages that have been stagnant for nearly 35 years. François Laporte, the president of Teamsters Canada, stated, “This is nothing short of an attack on Canadian workers and the middle class,” urging the Ontario Trucking Association to focus on raising truckers’ pay instead of suppressing it.
Insights from OTA President
Steve Laskowski, the president of the Ontario Trucking Association, discussed the need for foreign workers in an interview with CBC’s Conrad Collaco. Laskowski explained that the trucking workforce is aging, with many drivers over the age of 55, while the demand for trucking services is increasing due to economic growth in both Canada and the United States.
The Rationale for Hiring Foreign Workers
Laskowski mentioned that while bringing in foreign workers is part of the answer, it isn’t the sole solution. Attracting Canadians to trucking careers is crucial, but the industry struggles to compete with other sectors for the approximately 300,000 immigrants arriving in Canada each year. He argued that truck driving should not be regarded as an unskilled profession, emphasizing that it requires significant skill.
A Proposal to the Government
The OTA is advocating for the government to designate a portion of incoming immigrants as experienced long-haul drivers, who could then be matched with reputable employers known for high training standards and labor practices. These drivers would undergo mandatory entry training as well as a finishing program to ensure they meet safety requirements and contribute to economic growth.
Addressing Compensation and Attracting New Drivers
In response to questions about salary increases to attract local drivers, Laskowski stated that companies have raised wages and that truck drivers can earn between $70,000 and $80,000 annually. While competitive compensation is part of the solution, attracting younger individuals to long-haul jobs remains a challenge due to the lifestyle demands of the role. Some companies are exploring alternative work schedules to appeal to potential recruits.
Future of the Trucking Industry
The driver shortage is a national concern, particularly acute in urban areas with intense labor competition. Laskowski mentioned ongoing collaborations aimed at discovering effective strategies for drawing millennials into trucking, stressing the importance of treating drivers with respect. Addressing the opportunities within the industry, Laskowski noted that many truck drivers find lifelong careers in the field, often advancing into management or ownership roles.
