Andy Weir remembers when his father’s ability to secure work with his dump truck was influenced by the results of a provincial election. “If you voted for the wrong party, you wouldn’t work for three years,” said Weir, a resident of New Minas, N.S., and owner of Weir and Son Trucking, in an interview.
Over 50 years ago, the Truckers Association of Nova Scotia was established to address these challenges, aiming to create a more equitable environment. In the early 1990s, this was furthered by the introduction of the 80/20 agreement, which mandated that 80 percent of trucking work for road construction come from local small businesses, while contractors provided the remaining 20 percent, with government-set rates.
However, last month, the Progressive Conservative government announced plans to eliminate this policy in 2026, as Public Works Minister Fred Tilley confirmed in a letter dated August 13. Tilley indicated that this decision was influenced by “the current economic climate and tariff pressures,” pointing to efforts to “reduce barriers, support internal trade, and strengthen the economy.”
In his letter, Tilley explained that beginning in 2026, trucking services for capital highway contracts will transition to a market-based procurement model. Doug Faulkner, president of the association and an operator of a single truck and two trailers since 1985, noted that this decision was made without substantial input from the association.
Uncertainty on the Horizon
Faulkner mentioned a prior meeting with Tilley where the minister showed a keen understanding of the 80/20 agreement. “Typically, a new minister wouldn’t be aware of it,” he noted. Following that meeting, association members were taken by surprise when the letter was delivered during a meeting last month.
Both Faulkner and Weir believe the government should have engaged in discussions with the association before making any announcements. They are worried about the long-term effects, especially since the association includes about 475 members operating around 1,500 trucks. Without protections, they fear larger contractors could outprice independent operators, affecting not only them but also supporting businesses like repair shops.
Calls for Accountability
Interim Liberal Leader Derek Mombourquette stated that Tilley needs to provide a more detailed explanation regarding the changes. He highlighted the significant role the 80/20 agreement played in fostering growth for businesses across the province. “Be transparent and explain how this impacts trade if at all, and what measures will be taken to help Nova Scotia companies succeed,” he urged.
Faulkner remarked that association members are reaching out to Tilley, Premier Tim Houston, and local MLAs, but responses have been scarce. He stressed that members are unwilling to give up the agreement without a fight, asserting, “If they think we’re going to surrender what we have worked for, that’s not going to happen.” Tilley was not available for an interview, but his department stated that the 30-year-old policy violates trade agreements and that they plan to honor prior contracts under the 80/20 rule for ongoing projects.
