I need your support on a matter of great significance for Transport Truck Drivers (NOC: 73300) in light of recent policy changes by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on November 6, 2023.

On September 8, 2023, IRCC initially included Transport Truck Drivers in the Certificate of Qualification list, only to remove them on November 6, 2023. I believe it is crucial for IRCC to reconsider this decision and award Transport Truck Driver points for Certificate of Qualification under the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System, in accordance with the original policy update issued on September 8, 2023.

The initial policy update aimed to acknowledge the crucial role played by truck drivers in our economy by including the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code 73300 for Transport Truck Drivers in the list of eligible occupations for Certificate of Qualification. However, there is a unique aspect of the certification process for truck drivers that was overlooked in the recent update.

The policy originally stated that for a trade occupation to be eligible for skill transferability factor CRS points, the certificate must be issued by the body governing trades in a province or territory. Unlike most NOC codes listed, which fall under the authority of provincial Ministries of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, Transport Truck Drivers are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) across all provinces.

The Certificate of Qualification, in essence, serves as a license to practice a compulsory trade, substantiated by the completion of an accredited Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) certificate, Air Brake Endorsement, and acquisition of a Class A or Class D License issued by the competent MTO. No other documentation, licensing, or Certificate of Qualification is issued by the governing authority of the trucking industry.

Furthermore, the National Occupational Classification (NOC) website, managed by Employment and Social Development Canada, underscores the specific requirements for transport truck drivers under NOC 73300, emphasizing the importance of the provided documents.

Given these points, I urge IRCC to recognize the provided documents - the MELT certificate, Air Brake Endorsement, and either Class A or Class D License - as equivalent to a Certificate of Qualification or a license enabling practice for truck drivers. The Ontario Regulation 340/94: Driver's Licences under Highway Traffic Act further underscores the authority of the MTO in certifying Transport Truck Drivers.

I have initiated discussions with the provincial Ministry of Transportation for Ontario and received assurance from the Honourable Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria that they are actively working towards a resolution. An official statement from MTO will clarify the certification requirements as specified in section 87.2 (3)(d)(i) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulation.

I kindly request your support in advocating for this cause. Your endorsement will be instrumental in ensuring the well-being and professional advancement of our valued transport truck drivers.