The following is an open letter to Transport Minister David Collenette:

Dear Minister Collenette:

In the February 2003 issue of Truck News, when your office was queried about a petition, that I initiated, which opposes the Hours of Service, your office denied ever receiving this petition – number 317-0567.

On Feb. 8, 2002, Bev Desjalais of the New Democrat Party tabled this Petition #371-0567 in the House of Commons.

On Friday, Mar. 22, 2002 your response was tabled in the House of Commons.

This raises several questions that I would like to ask the Minister of Transport.

When a member of the press asks a question, why would your staff issue a statement without researching the answer?

When your office has been advised that their statement is incorrect, is it not common practice to investigate or consult before firmly maintaining your position?

If your special assistants are misinformed, how are you able to make informed decisions?

The Standing Committee on the Hours of Service recommended that you report back to Parliament on the operation after a trial period.

What information will you be collecting?

Who will be gathering the information and how long is the trial period?

In summary, I would like to suggest that a publicly written correction be issued from your office acknowledging the fact that you and your office had knowledge of this petition (contrary to what was previously stated).

Another issue that I would like to bring to your attention is the fact that I have requested a meeting with you on several occasions yet always been denied the opportunity.

I believe that the concerns of the Canadian driver are as important as those of the transportation industry and therefore ask that you give us an equal opportunity to meet with you.

I await your correction and reply in the very near future.

Peter Turner

Consultant for The Truckers’ Voice

www.thetruckersvoice.ca