TOWING TOILS
Tow operators in Northern Ontario have reported complications with the new industry requirements imposed on July 21, 2024, that require service testing not readily available in the region. The issue, according to Northern Ontario tow operators, is that there are currently only two authorized training providers in Ontario and one of them—CAA Club Group—only allows those in its contracted network to register for the course. These operators claim the training courses do not have the capacity to cover all of Ontario. Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation issued a statement that “this is an application-based program and currently no service providers located in the north have applied.” However, the Ministry expects that in future, more courses will become available as demand continues to increase.
A MEMORIAL MEETING
In recognition and tribute to all those tow operators injured or lost their lives in the line of duty, the Professional Towing Association of Ontario (PTAO) held its second memorial scholarship procession on September 14, 2024, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. The event took place before the PTAO Tow Show opened for the day. The procession began at Guelph line and finished at the Bingemans Centre in Kitchener, Ontario. Following the procession, a formal dedication was made in addition to scholarship announcements meant to advance the training, education and professionalism in the towing industry.