Would you support a plan to waive driving tests amidst the MPI strike? [Video]

Manitoba Public Insurance is reversing course on a plan to waive the road test for some new drivers amid strike-related disruptions and criticism over the plan from some driving instructors.

The Crown corporation had repeated on Thursday afternoon that due to backlogs from cancellations, some who have completed the MPI driver’s-ed program, called Driver Z, would be allowed to get their licence without a road test.

Hours later, MPI hit the brakes on that plan.

Manitoba Public Insurance is reversing course on a plan to waive the road test for some new drivers amid strike-related disruptions and criticism over the plan from some driving instructors.

The Crown corporation had repeated on Thursday afternoon that due to backlogs from cancellations, some who have completed the MPI driver’s-ed program, called Driver Z, would be allowed to get their licence without a road test.

Hours later, MPI hit the brakes on that plan.

About 1,700 MPI workers have been on strike since Monday after collective bargaining talks hit an impasse between the Crown corporation and the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union.

MPI said more than 2,000 Class 5 road tests have been cancelled. In light of backlogs, MPI announced Wednesday it would resume road tests for its Class 5 licensees through a partnership with certified driving education instructors outside of MPI.

Initially, MPI was going to waive the road test for some who had gone through the MPI driver’s-ed program.

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