VANCOUVER, B.C. — In addition to releasing a statement from their president and CEO today, Port Metro Vancouver has outlined 10 reasons why the 14-point plan – a joint action plan by the federal and B.C. provincial governments along with Port Metro Vancouver — is actually beneficial for truckers. 

 

The Unifor-Vancouver Container Truckers’ Association (VCTA) rejected the 14-point plan (initially created with the hopes of getting striking container truck drivers back to work) because the proposal didn’t address the right issues. 

 

The plan promised drivers that upon agreeing to return to work, they would be consulted on changes to the port’s trucking licensing system, that trip rates would increase 10% within the month, and that they would be paid the fuel surcharge.

 

Here are the 10 reasons Port Metro Vancouver says the 14-point plan is good for truckers:

 

1.    The Ready Rates will be increased by 10% and will now be paid for off-dock trips including for empty containers.

2.    The fuel surcharge will increase because it will be based on the increased Ready Rates. Also, trucking companies will be required to pay the fuel surcharge to owner/operators.

3.    The Terminal Gate Compliance Fee will not have to be paid when owner/operators are delayed by terminal operations.

4.    Owner/operators who are paid by the trip will receive $25 if they are forced to wait two hours past their scheduled pick-up time.

5.    After careful review, rates and fuel surcharges will be updated by mid-2015.

6.    The audit program will be strengthened and expanded to cover both union and non-union drivers and off-dock movements. Audits of trucking companies will be increased to ensure compliance.

7.    A new whistleblower program will make it easier for drivers to report undercutting and non-payment of negotiated rates.

8.    Terminal gates will be open longer where there is demand.

9.    Under the new Truck Licensing System, the number of trucking permits will be controlled to match demand and make sure there is enough work for everyone.

10. Wait times will be shortened through a better reservation system, GPS tracking and other changes.