The Port Transportation Association (PTA) held another rally on July 21 to express their opposition to the new container trucking service regulations in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.
The PTA asserts that these new rules could negatively impact smaller and mid-sized drayage companies in the region, as they will restrict many operators from “doing business with themselves.” The new regulations will prevent licensed trucking companies from engaging their subsidiary or affiliated non-licensed firms to conduct off-dock work.
According to Tom Johnson, a spokesperson for the PTA, more than 160 trucks, some with trailers, took part in the rally, which commenced at 11:30 a.m. on Annacis Island and proceeded to Vancouver’s downtown and back.
New Regulations Effective in November
As outlined in a report from the Office of the British Columbia Container Trucking Commissioner (OBCCTC), effective November, those looking to renew their truck tags (licenses to transport containers to and from the port) must refrain from making any agreements with non-licensed parties for both on- and off-dock trucking services for off-dock drayage work in the Lower Mainland.
Commissioner Glen MacInnes explained that the new regulations aim to close loopholes within the Container Trucking Act used by “shadow companies” to circumvent mandated wage standards for truck drivers working with ports. His office stated, “An exhaustive consultation process led up to the amendments for CTS licenses, with careful consideration of all stakeholder submissions, including those from the PTA.”
PTA Appeals for Change
While the PTA represents a significant portion of the approximately 1,600 active tags, it contends that well-intentioned operators will suffer the repercussions of these new rules. Many drivers rely on a combination of work for consistent income. Additionally, companies have to cover costs for equipment and leases.
Johnson emphasized, “Trying to rally to change his mind won’t suffice. We need the NDP government to step in and modify the act to limit his authority. That’s the only resolution.” He criticized the current system where a single unelected individual can dictate the fate of their businesses, calling it “absolutely insane.”
After the PTA’s initial rally on May 5, they requested a meeting with B.C. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Rob Fleming. Although they met with him subsequently, Johnson indicated that it didn’t yield the expected results. The association has urged the B.C. NDP party to address these concerns by reviewing the new licensing requirements and the powers of the commissioner.
