CTA pleased with DOT rule on explosives haulers

OTTAWA (Feb. 6, 2003) — The leader of the Canadian Trucking Alliance said he’s pleased with new security measures that will allow Canadian-resident truck drivers to continue transporting explosives into and out of the United States.

The interim rule overrides provisions under the U.S. Safe Explosives Act would have barred foreign residents from hauling explosives in interstate or international commerce effective Jan. 24.

The situation set off a flurry of lobbying by the CTA. “With the support of Transport Canada and Canadian Embassy officials, we stressed the severity of the prohibitions against Canadian drivers to officials from the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Transportation Security Administration, and U.S. Customs Service,” said CTA chief executive David Bradley.

On Feb. 4, the U.S. DOT issued new requirements for truck and rail operators carrying explosives from Canada to the United States to register with Transport Canada, which will conduct security checks and provide a list of carriers, shippers, and drivers to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration for a final screening. Only approved explosives haulers, shippers, and truck drivers will be allowed entry into the United States.

“This issue is still very fluid, as the protocol now in place is only a temporary measure,” Bradley explained. “Consultations must be completed between Canada and the U.S. to put in place a permanent process for security checks of drivers operating across the border.” He said the CTA would continue to work with the government agencies involved to ensure the flow of goods across the border.