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IN-BRIEF
Saskatchewan makes super single tire pilot program permanent
kg per tire. This increase does not apply to tires on the steering axle. In the coming months, regu- lations will be amended to allow
trucks to use the tires without
a permit. Saskatchewan’s super single pilot program, which began in July 2017, will also become per- manent. TW
Manitoba takes
steps toward a
MELT program
WINNIPEG, MANITOBA
The province of Manitoba is moving forward with consultations aimed at implementing a man- datory entry-level driver training (MELT) program, Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler has announced.
“Our government is focused on safety above all else,” Schuler said. “Mandatory entry-level training is something the trucking industry has asked for and we want to work in a collaborative way to ensure that Manitoba roadways are as safe as possible.”
Consultations will be held
Jan. 7 in Winnipeg and Jan.
10 in Brandon. Just days after Saskatchewan said it would imple- ment a MELT program this coming March, Manitoba appears to be fol- lowing the same path.
“Mandatory entry-level train- ing is something that would have broad impacts across sectors including transportation, infra- structure and agriculture,” Schuler said. “We want to hear from Manitobans and ensure this pro- posed change focuses on safety in collaboration with industry.”
Following Saskatchewan’s announcement, Manitoba Trucking Association executive director Terry Shaw posted his thoughts on Twitter, writing, “ON, AB and now SK have all beaten MB out of the gate on this issue. MB is recognized as a transportation hub yet @MBGov is silent on this criti- cal transport policy. @TruckingMB members are concerned. @Brian_ Pallister, @Min_Schuler, will MB mandate truck driver training?”
Alberta announced in October that it would implement a MELT program this spring. B.C. has not made any official announcements on whether it will have its own program in the near future.
Manitoba’s effort to iron out a MELT program for Class 1 drivers began in April, working with Manitoba Education and Training, as well as Manitoba Public Insurance.
Upcoming consultations will include discussions around train- ing standards, approaches to out- of-province drivers, and the scope of individuals who will require MELT training. TW
REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN
The province of Saskatchewan is expanding, making permanent, and harmonizing its single wide- base tire program with Ontario’s in an effort to improve internal trade.
“Our provinces are taking action to create a better trade environment in Canada that will result in real benefits to our key sectors and the people who do business in our provinces,” said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison. “This announcement is one of several initiatives the provinces are working on to enhance internal
trade between Saskatchewan and Ontario.”
The harmonization of the super single tire programs is intended to make shipments easier for trucking companies traveling between the two provinces. It is also expected to help curb greenhouse gas emissions.
“With thousands of trucks transporting goods in and out of the province, an increase in fuel economy reduces both shipping costs and carbon emissions,” said Highways and Infrastructure Minister Lori Carr. “This program shows that provinces can reduce internal barriers to trade and have
a positive impact on the environ- ment by working together.”
The expansion of the single wide-base tire program applies to all 12-month primary weight high- ways and allows permitted trucks to increase weight on 455 mm tires or wider from 3,850 kg to 4,250
8 TruckNews–West•January2019