Quebec truckers cancel go-slow protest
QUEBEC CITY (Feb. 16, 2000) — Plans by Quebec truck drivers to delay traffic through widespread slow driving on the province’s highways in protest of high diesel-fuel prices and other grievances were canceled Wednesday due to bad weather. The drivers said they dropped their action because they did not want to create unsafe conditions for motorists.
“Operation Escargot,” as it was dubbed, was to be just one element in the truckers’ efforts to draw attention to high fuel prices. Grievances regarding working conditions and the desire to form a recognized union are reportedly also fanning driver anger.
Quebec transportation minister Guy Chevrette had earlier declared that he would not be “blackmailed” by trucker threats of such protests. He said provincial taxes are not to blame for the recent high prices.
Have your say
This is a moderated forum. Comments will no longer be published unless they are accompanied by a first and last name and a verifiable email address. (Today's Trucking will not publish or share the email address.) Profane language and content deemed to be libelous, racist, or threatening in nature will not be published under any circumstances.