Early this morning a convoy of truck drivers gathered to protest along GTA highways, the Ontario Provincial Police said. OPP spokesperson Kerry Schmidt stated that the protest began around 7:00 am this morning on Highway 410. The group of drivers then moved on to Highway 401, then later to Highway 427. They have since moved on to the Gardiner Expressway.
Early this morning a convoy of truck drivers gathered to protest along GTA highways, the Ontario Provincial Police said. OPP spokesperson Kerry Schmidt stated that the protest began around 7:00 am this morning on Highway 410. The group of drivers then moved on to Highway 401, then later to Highway 427. They have since moved on to the Gardiner Expressway.
Trucks can be heard blaring their horns going down the Gardiner Expressway, as documented in a video posted to Twitter.
The protest is in response to the announcement by the Government of Canada stating on April 1st Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and New Brunswick would be subject to the federal carbon pricing system, with Nunavut and Yukon following them starting on July 1st.
This means that any interjurisdictional carriers who travel to the provinces stated above would have a legal obligation to register with the Canadian Revenue Agency by those dates.
The Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) voiced their concerns on the matter. Mainly with the potential of a double taxation, ensuring a competitive playing field with the industries international competition, as well the need for the need of guidance materials and proper education of initiative in set sectors. The CTA has yet to receive a response to their concerns.
Police have since stated they are working with organizers, as well as keeping a close eye on the protest.