Truckers were being urged not to block highways in protest, but the government and the organization speaking for truckers admitted they had no real power to prevent independent drivers from taking action. Al Palladini, Ontario's economic development minister, said he was optimistic that a proposed working group including representatives from Ottawa, the province and industry stakeholders could eventually reach a deal to help drivers cope with soaring operating costs. They could have solved this by now. We have made tremendous inroads. Wellman, whose organization represents about 1,800 independent trucking owners and operators, had asked drivers to park their rigs at least over the weekend.
Trucking companies charge their customers a fuel surcharge when the cost of gas rises.
As the feud brewed Friday, about 200 truckers who haul dirt and gravel parked their rigs on the edge of Highway 401 near Milton, Ont., about 40 kilometres west of Toronto. They crowded into a weigh station to call not just for lower fuel costs, but for adjustments in how much their loads can legally weigh. Time Canada Admired, despised and certainly controversial, Serena and Venus Williams lead the charge into the U.S. Open this week. Tell us what you think. We welcome your feedback.