EDMONTON, Alta. – Armed Forces personnel in Alberta holding a valid DND 404 military driver’s permit will now be awarded the civilian equivalent commercial licence, streamlining the process to becoming a commercial driver.

Prior to the Nov. 10 announcement by the Province’s minister of infrastructure and transportation, Brian Mason, the military’s DND 404 driving permit was not transferable to a commercial licence, despite many of the licence holders already having the required training, qualifications and experience through their time of duty operating heavy military vehicles in Canada and abroad.

But that has come to an end.

“I would like to congratulate the current transportation minister, Brian Mason, former minister André Corbould, as well as Sean Hammond of the ministry, for being so proactive in dealing with the challenges facing the trucking industry,” said Rick Eichel, secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local Union 362. “Without their dedication, none of this would have been possible.”

Alberta joins Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec as the provinces that recognize the DND 404 military driver’s permit, which will allow serving and recently retired vets the ability to easily transfer into the civilian workforce in a range of commercial driver roles.

And, in addition to applauding the move, Teamsters Canada, along with the Alberta government, are working to promote the Canadian Forces Liaison Council’s mission to help approximately 26,000 reservists reconcile their civilian and Armed Forces obligations.

Organizations are not only asked to hire reservists, but also to sign a statement of support to show espousal for the contribution of members of the Canadian military.

“Canada cannot ignore talented people like our reservists,” added Roy Finley, executive assistant to the president of Teamsters Canada. “These workers are highly motivated, skilled and loyal, and I believe the Government of Alberta should encourage the employment of these reservists.”