The truckers, all members of the Ontario Dump Truck Association (ODTA), are upset that they haven't had a raise since 2003 and want someone to address the "inhumane" conditions in their industry. The independent contractors say they are often forced to compromise the safety of their trucks, and the public, in order to get jobs and earn a living.
"We're between a rock and a hard place," said Ashley Bembridge, a 48-year-old father of two who gave up a high-paying factory job five years ago and invested $160,000 in his own dump truck. "Every month you work, you have to make a choice whether to pay your mortgage or fix the brakes on your truck. Most guys pay their mortgage."
ODTA director Gus Rocca told The News last Thursday, when the truckers held a three-hour rolling protest on the GTA's 400-series highways, that contractors are pushing drivers to reach unrealistic goals with overloaded trucks.
Rocca says the association's main fight is with Ontario's Ministry of Transportation, which often fines drivers for overloaded trucks.
"We're the ones getting the tickets, not the contractors," said Rocca. "I didn't load the truck, so why am I being punished? We're pushing for the government to have talks with MTO, so they can fix this problem."
ODTA, which claims more than 600 drivers as members, is asking contractors for a wage increase to $90 per hour. "It's been over five years since an increase in wages," said ODTA spokesperson Harsimran Gill.
Gill said association leaders hope to meet with Ontario Transportation Minister Jim Bradley today at Queen's Park.
jstewart@mississauga.net
