Editor's note: Mr. Orr writes in response to the BayToday article Northern MPP calls out fraudulent licensing of untrained commercial vehicle drivers in Ontario.
To the editor:
I am writing to commend CBC Marketplace for its excellent investigative journalism into the issues surrounding driver training and licensing in Ontario. The report has shed much-needed light on serious concerns that our organization, Truckers for Safer Highways, has been advocating for years.
The CBC's investigation highlighted the shortcomings in the Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) program, particularly the inadequate number of training hours required for new truck drivers. We believe that 103.5 hours is insufficient to prepare individuals to safely operate heavy vehicles on our roads.
Additionally, the report uncovered alarming instances of fraud and bribery at DriveTest Ontario centres, raising serious questions about the integrity of the licensing process.
It is imperative that the Ontario Provincial Police launch a thorough investigation into the allegations of fraud at DriveTest centres. The safety of all road users depends on ensuring that only qualified and properly trained drivers are behind the wheel of commercial vehicles.
We urge the government to take immediate action to address these pressing issues. This includes increasing the required training hours for new truck drivers, strengthening enforcement measures, and implementing stricter quality control standards for driver testing.
By working together, we can create a safer and more reliable transportation system for all.
Be safe out there,
Jeffrey Orr
Tweed, Ontario
Co-Founder
Truckers for Safer Highways
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