OSHAWA, Ont. — In response to constantly fluctuating fuel prices, General Motors has reduced the fuel subsidy it pays to truckers.

Those Tier II and truckload service providers currently being paid under the authority of the five per cent Canadian surcharge will see their tariff rolled back. All shipments made on or after Aug. 14, will have the surcharge cut by more than half — with the auto giant slashing support to two percent.

“Again, it looks like trouble for O/Os that haul automotive goods,” says Bill Wellman, president of the National Truckers Association. “This is the second cut in the last few months and fuel is at an all time high.”

Despite Wellman’s claims, prices at the pumps have been coming somewhat under control. Reports out of the U.S. indicate diesel has hit an 18-month low.

“General Motors will continue to review fuel prices on a monthly basis and make changes as appropriate,” says Cliff Gilroy, director of material transportation for GM North American Logistics.