Updated: APTA keeps close watch on truckers crossing the border

by Today's Trucking

Border

DIEPPE, N.B. – The Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association is keeping a close watch on how things unfold in the wake of new border restrictions announced by the federal government, the organization’s chief said Tuesday.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that Canada will close its borders to most foreign travelers in a bid to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We had some calls yesterday as a few trucks got turned around at the border because of Trudeau’ announcement, and the way it was interpreted by border officials,” said Jean-Marc Picard, executive director of the APTA.

He said things seem to have settled a bit Tuesday around the issue of truckers working under the Temporary Foreign Workers program and crossing the border to the U.S.

“Now it seems like everyone is on the same page,” Picard told Today’s Trucking.

He also called for more clarity on the issue.

Jean-Marc Picard
Jean-Marc Picard

Picard said his association is still waiting for an official document from either federal Transportation Minister Marc Garneau’s office or the CBSA, stating that all truck drivers, including those working under the TFW program, will be allowed to continue to cross the border to deliver goods without issues.

“We were told that we would have something to share with carriers today.”

Picard said it is important to continue to reassure our drivers that it is business as usual. It is also crucial for drivers to take precautionary measures to stay healthy and safe, he added.

“We are in stressful times. Therefore, we don’t want to add any unnecessary worries for companies and their drivers that are doing exceptional work out there moving products to make sure shelves are replenished.”

_ This story has been updated with fresh comments from Picard.


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  • What medical protection do all these drivers have while in the U S . I hope that is a better plan than in Ontario. New York City has a big problem. This C 19 is going to cause a big slow down we should bring in no new truck drivers for cross border work. We can still look a few mechanics and other skilled workers. Most trucks drivers are leaving the industry. I have not seen the C T A take the concerns of sick or injured truck drivers and act on them.

  • there is a shortage of drivers I mean qualified drivers and when come time or a driver to take the job offer it should be mandatory to explain all of how it work if you get sick or have an accident while being in the states no one talk about this ‘why???” I know in the 20 years doing it I have been lucky and nothing happened and what about expenses while being stuck at the border?? some big company have the answer if you ask and the smaller one will evade the conversation. So if there is a good chance of getting infected well stay home and look for another job.