National Trucking Week - Sept. 2 to 8, 2012
VICTORIA - It can be easy to forget amid the activity of our day-to-day lives the extent to which the trucking industry directly impacts each and every one of us here in British Columbia. From the food on our tables to the many other products we rely on daily, none of it would be possible without the efforts of the hard-working men and women of B.C.'s trucking industry.
Truckers in B.C. are the backbone of the provincial economy, and once a year, as part of National Trucking Week, we take time to celebrate the outstanding workforce that helps drive B.C.'s economy. More than 29,000
British Columbians work in the trucking industry, which generates approximately $2 billion annually in revenues in B.C. Virtually every part of our economy depends on the trucking industry - oil and gas, forestry, mining and agriculture, just to name a few.
The trucking industry plays a vital role in connecting our province with intercontinental and international trading partners, and ensuring British Columbia's competitive position in the global marketplace. New and emerging markets in Asia are providing B.C. with jobs and opportunities throughout the province, and truckers play a crucial role in getting goods to market and supporting our position as Canada's Pacific Gateway.
As part of the BC Jobs Plan, our goal is to boost domestic, cross-border and global export opportunities, bring new investment into all regions of the province, accelerate job creation and grow revenues which support B.C. families. The British Columbia Trucking Association plays a key role in helping us achieve these goals.
Truckers contribute valuable input on the safety of roads and highways. Promoting a safe, efficient and environmentally responsible trucking industry, and raising awareness about the key contributions made by commercial vehicle operators, remains a priority for our government. We look forward to continuing to develop positive working relationships with our industry partners, including the B.C. Trucking Association.
I am proud to officially proclaim Sept. 2 to 8, 2012 as National Trucking Week in B.C., to recognize B.C. truckers for the important contribution they make to our economy and for the vital role they play in our everyday lives.