MP Allen Pleased with Further Tax Relief for Long-Haul Truckers

January 21, 2010

TOBIQUE-MACTAQUAC – The transportation industry is very important in the riding of Tobique-Mactaquac, and that’s why Mike Allen, Member of Parliament, is pleased with this year’s increase in meal claim rates for long-haul truck drivers.

The increase is from 70 per cent to 75 per cent in the deductible portion of meal expenses, and this will be applicable to eligible expenses incurred in 2010.

“I know that truckers had been fighting to have a better meal allowance for a number of years, and in 2007 we started to deliver on making things better,” said Mr. Allen. “There is no question these folks definitely deserve it.

“Trucking is such a vital industry in this region and across the country, and I’m pleased that our government is supporting their important work.”

In the 2007 Budget, the Government of Canada committed to increase, over five years, the deductible portion of meal expenses for long-haul truck drivers to 80 per cent, during eligible periods of travel. The measure also applies to employers that pay or reimburse such costs incurred by long-haul truckers they employ. The deductible portion will increase further to 80 per cent for expenses incurred starting in 2011.