Yesterday, just a few days before National Trucking Week, the Government of Canada (Sept. 6-12), announced a significant change to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) meal allowance policy for truck drivers – a policy shift that will put upwards of $1500 tax dollars back into the households of long-haul truck drivers dealing with rising roadside food costs as a result of COVID-19.
The Canadian Trucking Alliance is calling on members and truck drivers who will benefit from this policy to use social media to thank the Government of Canada, specifically CRA and Transport Canada, for addressing this need for our nation’s commercial truck drivers.
“This was an important measure for our essential service commercial drivers and they deserve this attention from the Government of Canada,” said CTA president Stephen Laskowski. “But let’s not forget there are many pressures on Ottawa from all sectors looking for policies to address issues caused by the pandemic. The Government of Canada stepped up to help our drivers, so let us recognize this support.”
To assist members the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) have created social media images designed to highlight the industry’s appreciation for the change in the meal allowance. CTA is encouraging members and drivers to recognize in their social media posts two key ministers responsible for this policy change: The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue and The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport. For members those not utilizing social media, the parliamentary e-mail addresses for both Minister Garneau and Lebouthillier can be accessed here.
Below are quotes from yesterday’s announcement from both Minister Garneau and Lebouthillier:
“Updating our policies is an integral part of our People First philosophy to put Canadians at the centre of everything we do. The increase to the reasonable amount for meal benefits and allowances, as well as the flat rate amount for meal expenses, demonstrates CRA’s commitment to ensuring our tax system is fair and meets the needs of Canadians today.”
- The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue
“On behalf of the Canadian government, I would like to express our gratitude to all those who work in Canada’s trucking industry. This year, more than ever before, you’ve been on the front lines. You have kept our country going, moving food, medications, and so many other essential goods that keep Canadians safe and healthy… Canadians owe much to the tireless work of Canada’s truck drivers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. These increased meal allowance rates will ensure that truckers and other essential workers can access affordable meals as they travel long distances, transporting critical goods and supplies.”
- The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport