FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Truck drivers, farmers and transportation industry workers gathered in Fort St. John Thursday as part of a rally highlighting concerns over high diesel prices and the impact fuel costs are having on businesses and consumers.
The event started on the frontage road outside the UFA Cardlock, where participants met before taking part in a slow-roll convoy through the city.
Organizers said the demonstration was intended to draw attention to rising operating costs in the trucking industry and what they describe as increasing affordability challenges facing Canadians.
Truckers and other transportation workers were invited to share their experiences with rising costs, freight rates and challenges facing the industry.
Supporters of the rally argue that higher diesel prices affect more than just the trucking industry.
Organizers said increased transportation costs ultimately drive up the price of groceries, building materials, vehicle parts, clothing and other consumer goods because nearly every product relies on trucks at some point in the supply chain.
The rally came amid a broader political debate over fuel taxes and diesel affordability.
Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre recently proposed eliminating federal taxes on diesel fuel for a period of time and removing the GST from fuel purchases, arguing the measures would help reduce costs for transportation companies and consumers.
Organizers say the gathering was an opportunity for truckers and transportation workers to tell their stories and advocate for changes they believe would support the industry.
With files from the Canadian Press