FLASH SNOW STORM CREATES LARGE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS

February 25, 2005

Saying that the best feedback is from shops, Tony Nigro, the President of HARA, the largest local collision repair association in Canada, announced five free local meetings designed to showcase the successes and activities of the association and to seek feedback from shops on issues of the day. Strategic plans that are being designed by the association are also open for input from shops.

All shops, not just members, are invited to these free receptions. Food and refreshments are provided.

"Shops need to better understand the activities that their association is actively involved in and the association needs to be fairly representing shop interest and moving on issues of their concern." says Mr. Nigro.

Meetings are free and shop owners, managers, techs, apprentices and those looking for job opportunity information on collision repair can drop in at any time:

Wed. March 2 Holiday Inn, Keefer Court (QEW and Hwy 20), Hamilton 6-9 pm

Tues. March 8 Texas Grill for breakfast, 6592 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls 7-9 am

Wed. March 9 Monte Carlo Inn, 374 S. Service Rd E., at Trafalgar, Oakville 6-9 pm
(Special guest Halton Regional Police on towing issues)

Thurs. March 10 Admiral Inn, Dundurn and York Sts., Hamilton 6-9 pm
(Special guest Skilled Trades Alliance on job incentives and training)

Tues. March 15 Holiday Inn, 664 Cologne St., Brantford 6-9 pm
(Special guest on issues of environmental profitability)

For more information please call 1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com
For more information on HARA's recent activities please see:

http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/newsevents.html#yearend

(see headlines)

How did HARA help its members and the industry in 2004?

1) New regulations to control deceptive, unfair practices particularly in towing

2) Aided in six charges being laid against local “chasers”

3) New financial monthly newsletter from SB Partners free to members

4) Instituted regional member newsletters to provide more member assistance

5) Made two $75 manuals available free to members

6) New financing of repairs package free to members

7) Updated supplier discount program for members from NEBS

8) New rules on rebuilt airbags and painting air bag covers

9) Expanded CofA and audit assistance made available to shops

10) New rules on additional pricing for salvage vehicle inspections

11) Introduced brand appeal process for total loss vehicles

12) Web site enhancements on www.ciia.com with 2.8 million hits in 12 months

13) Offering free employment online ads for shops and members

14) Sponsored six Basic Estimating classes with discount pricing for members

15) Set up donations program to link schools with suppliers

16) Provide government with new definitions of service provider

17) Working with Halton police on new towing by-law

18) Started new www.autobodyhelp.ca online free assistance

19) Started local area meetings to assist shops

20) Start of apprentice renewal initiative

21) Working on new isocyanate control review program to better protect shops

22) New sprayc.a.r.e accreditation program proposed

23) Draft price list supplied to shops for review

24) 35th annual golf tournament with donation to local charity

25) Special insurers’ panel at October 7 special event

26) Successful introduction of online environmental training

27) Updated WHMIS training offered

28) Ongoing meetings with cabinet ministers on CISCO and Bill 186

29) Presentations to relevant groups – IBC, PAVE, OABR, CISCO, CAMPE

30) New court ordered tow storage rates set for Toronto

31) Requested to Mitchell for re-keying shop help

32) New equivalency package for trades certification updated

33) Request of ADP for rebate of funds due to October disc error

34) New 25% tax credit for hiring apprentices

35) All members receive free online news events information

36) New MOYAP style auto body course being discussed for secondary school

37) New improved benefit program announced

38) Four day meeting with MTO to update salvage brand and inspection program

39) New help package for salvage inspection for shops

40) Over 1000 students completing new training course

41) Simplified self-survey for environmental profitability now available

(see headlines)

Proposed Measures Would Allow Police To Clear Highways Faster After Collisions

TORONTO, Feb. 22 /CNW/ - The Ontario government plans to reduce congestion and improve safety with proposed legislation that would allow police to clear and reopen highways faster after collisions or spills, Transportation Minister Harinder Takhar announced today.

"About 60 per cent of all delays on urban highways are the result of collisions, spills or other debris," said Takhar. "The proposed Bill would mean fewer delays and less frustration for all drivers travelling on Ontario highways."

Last year, there were over 22,000 collisions throughout the GTA, some of which caused significant traffic delays. Those delays amount to closing a highway for the equivalent of a month and a half. The Transit and Road Safety Bill would allow police to clear highways faster following a collision or spill. It would clarify police powers to remove vehicles and debris from the roadway while protecting police, the province and/or the municipality from
liability.

"Highway closures can cost up to $600,000 an hour," said Takhar. "Businesses depend on just-in-time delivery. They simply cannot afford to wait hours for highways to re-open after a collision."

If passed by the Ontario Legislature, the proposed Transit and Road Safety Bill would also:

- Create new offences for flying vehicle parts, which can cause serious injury or death to other road users; and
- Improve daily commercial vehicle inspection standards by requiring drivers to check for over 70 itemized defects daily.

"This proposed legislation would make our roads safer by giving police the authority to get highways cleaned up and re-opened faster," said OPP Superintendent Peter Burns.

"Faster highway clearance means fewer secondary collisions."

The Ontario government believes the Transit and Road Safety Bill, if passed, would further improve safety and help ease congestion. A safe, efficient transportation system is key to building stronger communities.

Backgrounder
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

February 22, 2005

GOVERNMENT MOVES TO EASE CONGESTION ON ONTARIO HIGHWAYS

The Ontario government has introduced the Transit and Road Safety Bill to improve road safety and reduce congestion and transportation costs. The government recognizes traffic delays and highway closures have an impact on the province's economy. One minute of traffic delay for each trip translates into $170 million in higher shipping costs each year. The Transit and Road Safety Bill would allow police to clear highways faster following a
collision or spill. It would clarify police powers to remove vehicles and debris from the roadway while protecting police, the province and/or the municipality from liability. Currently, police wait for owners to arrange for clean up. There have been cases where trucking companies, or their insurers, have insisted on sending a crew from hundreds of kilometers away, causing extended delays.

The Transit and Road Safety Bill would also:

- Allow Ontario to implement a new National Safety Code Standard to improve truck safety in Ontario. The new standard would require more thorough pre-trip inspections of commercial vehicles by the driver. The checklist would increase from 23 to 70 items.

- Create new offences for flying vehicle parts with a new Highway Traffic Act provision that deems a vehicle unsafe if a part becomes detached. This would make all drivers, including personal vehicles, commercial carriers and third parties (e.g., mechanics) responsible
for parts that detach from vehicles travelling on the highway. For example, in the past year, an incident occurred where a metal part weighing about two kilograms detached from a truck and went through a car windshield.

If passed by the Ontario Legislature, the new law would mean:

- Less delay and frustration for all drivers
- Lower transportation costs
- Less risk of secondary collisions when incidents are cleared sooner
- Reduced numbers of detours on municipal roads not designed to carry highway traffic
- Protection from lawsuits relating to clean-ups
- Improved truck safety.

Ontario's roads are the safest in North America. The Ontario Government believes the Transit and Road Safety Bill, if passed, would further improve safety, and help ease congestion. Safer roads help build strong communities.

(see headlines)

By MARYANNA LEWYCKYJ, TORONTO SUN

BILLING IT as proof "the system is working," Canada's home, business and auto insurers raked in record profits of $4.2 billion for 2004. The combined results are a 61.5% improvement over 2003, a year when profits soared by 673% compared to 2002.

Insurance industry officials said the turnaround -- which follows five years of declining earnings -- is good news for consumers and businesses.

"Drivers across Canada are among the key beneficiaries of this recovery," said Mark Yakabuski, v-p of federal affairs for the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

Yakabuski said Ontario auto premiums have fallen by 12% on average over the past year, saving motorists a combined total of $900 million.

He also downplayed the record earnings, saying that over the past five years, insurers only generated 6 cents in profits for every dollar of premium and investment income taken in.

"By any estimation, this is a modest return, especially given the risks that insurers take on in protecting Canadian consumers, businesses and communities from financial disaster," Yakabuski said.

But NDP insurance critic Peter Kormos says the profits have come on the backs of consumers and businesses. He's calling for a "ripoff rebate" to compensate the public.

"Dalton McGuinty has no plan to rein in insurance companies that are jacking up rates and slashing payouts and benefits," Kormos said. "All the premier's managed to accomplish so far is wrestle insurance rates to the ceiling."

Mike Colle, parliamentary assistant to Ontario Finance Minister Greg Sorbara, said the government is pressing for further relief for consumers.

"This is by no means enough," Colle said. "We expect continued reductions to take place."

He said he'll also urge all insurers to be more lenient with motorists who have minor claims.

"People should be allowed to make claims and not fear that their rates will go through the roof," he said.

Auto insurance claims have dropped by 30% in the past 18 months with many drivers too terrified to report collisions.

"Some collision shops have had a 35% decrease in volume," said John Norris of the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association. "It's certainly hurting the business."

Although Ontario's auto claims frequency rate fell by 47.1% between 1993 and 2003, IBC officials say it's too early to say if the pattern of falling claims is a permanent trend.

"We've witnessed this over the last couple of years, but we don't know whether it's a temporary phenomenon or whether it's one that will continue," said Stan Griffin, IBC president and CEO.

Catherine Swift, president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, hopes the insurance industry's financial health eases the rate crunch for corporations.

"Firms have been hurt badly and some have not been able to get insurance at all," she said.

(courtesy of the Toronto Sun)

(see headlines)

JAMES DAW, BUSINESS REPORTER, TORONTO STAR

A surprising drop in car accident claims - attributed to a combination of dry weather, high gas prices and consumer fears over filing claims - led Canada's largest property insurer to a quadrupling of profits in 2004.

ING Canada Inc. says premium reductions will follow if the decline in accident claims - 23 per cent in Ontario and 16 per cent nationally - persists. But executives warn it's too soon to predict.

"The stars have all aligned in 2004," said president Claude Dussault, who announced a profit of $624.2 million compared with $150.5 million in 2003.

ING's profit last year provided a 40 per cent return on equity and was more than the entire industry earned a few years ago, prior to hitting auto, home and commerical clients with dramatic premium increases in 2002 and 2003.

Total industry profits also soared last year. This morning, the Insurance Bureau of Canada will release its estimate of industry profits.

"Results for the year have been strong and reflect an improvement in our claims experience in all lines of business across all lines of business, as well as increased efficiencies," Dussault said.

Many observers speculate that consumers feared a claim for a minor accident could drive premiums up by more than the cost of repairs.

But Dussault said research by his company suggests that favourable weather and the impact of higher gasoline prices on the number of kilometres driven may have played an even larger role.

He noted there was about 24 per cent less precipitation in Toronto and 20 per cent in major cities as a whole in 2004 than in 2003. Both snow and rain contribute to collision frequency.

Gasoline prices also rose by about 11 per cent.

But Dennis DesRosiers of DesRosiers Automotive Consultants Inc. said his research suggests that kilometres driven actually rose in 2004.

He suspects many drivers did not even repair minor dings and scratches.Distributors of repair parts saw a decline in sales last year.

Other researchers have found that consumers have increased the amount of their collision deductible as a way to hold down premiums, so they would have had to pay for minor scratches or dings regardless.

ING faced conflicting pressures last year. Governments sought steep premium reductions, while ING wanted strong returns ahead of its $858.5 million share offering in December.

"Regulatory changes to automobile insurance are expected to continue to impact the performance of the property and casualty industry," ING said in its earnings statement.

"Furthermore, the lower automobile claim frequencies observed in 2004 will either return to normal levels or lead to premium reductions in the coming 24 months."

Dussault noted that ING has more than met Ontario's target of a 10 per cent average cut in auto premium rates, having applied for rate reductions totalling 17 per cent since last April.

courtesy of the Toronto Star

(see headlines)

By LINDA LEATHERDALE, BUSINESS EDITOR, TORONTO SUN

READ THIS and try not to drive into the ditch. Because Lord knows, an accident will cost you more than an arm and a leg.

ING Canada yesterday kicked off a new round of record profits for insurance firms, reporting a fourth-quarter profit of $173.1 million, up a whopping 600% from its $24.7 million quarterly profit a year ago.

Revenues for ING, which went public in December with an IPO, climbed to $1 billion, compared to $808 million in the fourth quarter of 2003.

Today, expect a gusher of best-ever profits as the Insurance Bureau of Canada reports 2004 results. Even without fourth-quarter revenue, insurers had already raked in a record $2.7 billion for the first nine months of 2004 -- beating a $2.2-billion record profit in 2003.

Meanwhile, motorists are bitterly complaining they haven't received the promised 10% rollback in skyrocketing premiums, which Queen's Park says it has delivered.

SENATE HEARS GRIPES

And in Ottawa yesterday, small businesses complained to a Senate banking committee that runaway insurance costs and abusive practices are killing them.

"Insurance is still enemy No. 1," said Catherine Swift, president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), which is demanding more consumer protection and transparency from Canada's insurers.

In her testimony, Swift warned: "The livelihoods of thousands of small business owners, professionals and their employees are being threatened by skyrocketing business liability insurance premiums, and drastic reductions in insurance coverage and availability for many small businesses."

Bruce Cran, president of the Consumers Association of Canada, reacted to ING's profit by saying: "I find a 600% hike in profit absolutely obscene. It comes from the backs of consumers aided by provincial governments who have been hoodwinked into installing caps and thresholds."

This raging issue just won't go away -- even though the Liberals at Queen's Park want us to believe they've fixed the madness with their promised rollback in auto premiums, which went through the roof in 2001, 2002 and 2003.

INDUSTRY CHEERLEADERS

With industry cheerleaders calling it "unprecedented savings" for motorists -- Finance Minister Greg Sorbara last month proudly announced an average premium rollback of 10.6% for 2004, including a 6.08% drop in the fourth quarter. That followed a 14.09% hike in premiums in the fourth quarter of 2003, and a 15.67% hike in 2002.

According to Sorbara, average premiums fell from $1,499 to $1,319.

But in exchange for this so-called rollback, motorists are getting less, with higher collision and comprehensive deductibles and a scaling back of benefits.

Now, here's what Sun readers have to say:

"The Fiberals lied again," writes R.J. Peterson, of St. Thomas, who just received his renewal rate, effective March 1, which jumped to $1,541.91, up from $1,508.01.

He went on, "Here we are with the same cars that are another year older, same drivers that are another year older, and NO change in driving records and we are getting ripped off again."

Rob Poolman writes: "I can't believe Greg Sorbara can still stand up in front of the public and continue to lie about our insurance rates going down." Poolman's insurance just jumped another $100, even though he has a perfect driving record.

HIS RATES HAVE JUMPED

Gary Taylor, of Barrie, said his new motorcycle insurance bill just arrived, and it's up $30. "When I phoned my company and said I expected a decrease, they told me the government approved the rate."

Mark Slobodian e-mailed me to say his auto and home insurance rates have jumped an average of 50% in the past four years, even though he has a spotless record and has increased his deductibles while lowering his liability. "If the insurance companies are crying expenses are going up, then their profits should in no way be skyrocketing as they are."

Julie writes to complain her auto insurance jumped another $100 in January, even though she drives a 1998 Taurus with only 50,000 km on it, and she has no accidents or tickets.

Dennis DesRosiers, president of DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, said the cost of insurance is the No. 1 reason why consumers are not buying more new vehicles, which is hurting our auto industry.

Needless to say, I can't wait to hear the industry spin today.

(courtesy of the Toronto SUN)

(see headlines)

(see headlines)

February 16, 2005

Mitchell International announced today the addition of Shop Tool within its award-winning UltraMate® Premier Suite collision estimating and workflow solution. As part of its dedication to continuing to streamline the claim and repair process, Shop Tool has been added to offer Repair Order and Parts Ordering capabilities within the Premier Suite solution.

Premier Suite features advanced claims organization, integrated imaging, single-click communications, and wireless workflow capability. By integrating Shop Tool within the UltraMate Premier Suite, customers will streamline their shop repair order process by having instant access to a fully integrated parts order tracking, repair order, and vendor management system. Users will now have the capability of ordering and tracking parts
and electronically generating RO's and PO's from within a single application.

"Mitchell has always been a leader in delivering the tools that collision repair shops need to do their job efficiently and effectively," said Brian Kelleher - Canadian National Manger Collision Sales "From Collision Estimating Guides, ABS business management solutions, and UltraMate electronic estimating, Mitchell has provided shops with the tools they need
to run their business. Now with the latest technology and design, we are able to integrate these solutions into a single and powerful application, UltraMate Premier Suite."

UltraMate Premier Suite now hosts hundreds of users in Canada since its deployment in early 2004. Mitchell customers are exited to see the continued integration of tools and functionality into a single product suite.

"Mitchell has brought us the tools we need to run our business," said Jason Gagne, an estimator at Rutherford Collision Centre in Brampton, Ontario. "Mitchell's Premier Suite: It's a universal tool. I use it for all my Mitchell Insurance partners and my customer pay claims. I store my pictures and all other pertinent information in the Premier Suite claims folder. UltraMate is no longer a stand-alone estimating system. It's now a package
deal with eClaim Manager. I don't have to jump around opening different software programs, it's all in Premier Suite. I wish all our partners were using Premier Suite"

For those customers looking for a full-scale enterprise business management solution, Mitchell also offers the industry leading Advanced Business System (ABST) to maximize shop productivity and profitability.

(see headlines)

Global Finishing Solutions, L.L.C., the world's leading paint booths and finishing systems manufacturer, is proud to announce plans to open a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Monterrey, Mexico. This multi-million dollar investment reflects GFS' confidence in the expanding markets in the Americas. The company's existing Canadian plant located in Barrie, Ontario, will gradually transfer all manufacturing to Monterrey throughout 2005. The manufacturing center for industrial products will remain in Osseo, Wisconsin.

Carlos Pippa, President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Finishing Solutions, says the key objective of the move is to consolidate the company's leadership in the refinish spray booth market and to bolster Global Finishing Solutions' competitive edge. "We are facing intense world competition from low cost manufacturers. The Monterrey location will enable
GFS to conveniently access American and Canadian markets, and allow us to operate at much lower costs." Mr. Pippa added that the strength of the Canadian dollar relative to the US currency has eroded the company's competitiveness and was the deciding factor.

With the gradual transition to Monterrey, the Barrie plant will continue operations until the move is complete. Carlos Pippa acknowledges Barrie as vital in Global Finishing Solutions' exponential growth: "Aided by the efforts of all involved in the operation of our Canadian facility, we have become the largest spray booth manufacturer in North America. While sales in the US and Canada remain strong, the move will bring us closer to customers
in Mexico and Latin America, where the company is expecting significant growth."

Monterrey was chosen over Asia due to its proximity to the company's major markets and key suppliers, while providing overall manufacturing advantages. Manufacturing of spray booths in Asia poses adverse conditions relative to service and logistics.

Monterrey is one of Mexico's most business-friendly cities, offering a world-class manufacturing infrastructure. Over 1600 global companies including Maytag, Whirlpool, Siemens, and TRW have chosen Monterrey for their manufacturing. Global Finishing Solutions is excited to join these and other leading manufacturers in this dynamic city, and looks forward to a strong and prosperous future in Monterrey.

(see headlines)

"Innovation and change is all around us", said new CCIF chairman, Larry Jefferies. He cited CCIF itself as an innovation in the collision repair industry and urged participants to take full advantage of it. Issues such as industry image, profitability and government regulations would need constant attention, new ideas and approaches that could be developed at CCIF. Attracting young people into the industry, training them and offering them a
range of career development options would be critical to the ability of shop owners to keep repairing vehicles and make money.

Brian Kelleher of Mitchell International was first off the mark with his report on progress by the Parts & Materials Committee. As a result of the committee's work, Kelleher suggested that more aftermarket parts are now being used, there is a better understanding between shops, suppliers and insurers and improved communication on problems had led to a higher level of fit and finish. Similarly, the involvement of recyclers at CCIF was leading
to improved understanding between stakeholders and better rules for ordering recycled parts. Looking ahead, the Parts & Materials Committee would have its work cut out dealing with issues such as vehicle technology, parts availability, special tool and training needs.

Linda Brown of the CARS Network updated CCIF on Phase II of the CARS Collision Repair Project, an initiative designed to facilitate the design, development and delivery of a new training curricula for the industry. CARS was forming partnerships with providers of high quality technical and non-technical training, and also developing different ways of delivering
training to suit the needs and convenience of trainees and their employers.

CCIF administrator, Mike Bryan, gave participants a sneak preview of CCIF's long-awaited new web site, due to go live at the end of February. "The new site will play a major role in our drive to unite the industry from coast to coast", said Bryan. "For those CCIF participants who are unable to travel to all meetings, the web site will keep them connected until CCIF returns to their province". The web site will feature regularly updated industry news, reports on CCIF activities plus a polling and survey capability that will
enable CCIF to collect and share opinions on issues of importance.

There was a high level of interest in the output from the Cycle Time Committee, a work group with several progressive shop owners among its ranks. Committee chairman, Ken Friesen of Concours Collision Centres drew comparisons between the historical damage appraisal process driven by British Columbia's primary insurer, ICBC and the express process now in use. Cycle times had been considerably reduced, not least because of the
elimination of so much wasted time before the repair process begins. "We need to slow down so that we can hurry up", said Friesen. He added that the key to reducing cycle time is in continually finding ways to shorten the time from the Damage Analysis to the point where we "Eventually Get It Right".

Other highlights of CCIF Toronto included an update on the state of the industry in Ontario by Tony Canade of Oaktown Collision Centres. There was growing need to improve profitability and establish a level playing field for all collision repairers in Ontario, stated Canade. The Collision Repair Standards Act (Bill 186) would provide a good framework for addressing these and other key issues, but the Ontario government is showing little interest in implementing the Act. Alternative ways of achieving the same goals might
have to be considered, added Canade.

A standing ovation was reserved for Mark Millson, an apprentice from Budd's Collision, Oakville. He inspired CCIF with his story about success in Skills Canada's local, regional and national skills competitions. After winning Silver in the National Skills Competition in 2003, Millson set his sights on Gold for 2004 and in Winnipeg that year he did just that. Now as Canadian champion he goes forward to compete in the International Skills Competition in Helsinki. The pride in the room at CCIF was palpable as Millson declared
his commitment to collision repair and urged all to do their part in making the skilled trades more attractive to young people.

The Canadian Collision Industry Forum meets again on Saturday, April 16th at the Sheraton Guildford Hotel in Surrey, British Columbia. All those who have an interest in the collision repair industry are welcome. For further information on CCIF or to register for the April 16th meeting, contact Mike Bryan at 905 726 9027 or administrator@ccif.net

(see headlines)

The two sized system, called 'dual depth' by GM, deploys from within the instrument panel. When the small air bag is required, a tether holds the air bag back to the smaller size, and gas is vented from the module housing. For the larger air bag deployment, the tether is released, the module-housing vent is shut off, and the air bag is allowed to expand to its full size.

Using, among other indicators, a seat-position switch located in the seat track, the vehicle's Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) determines the shape of the air bag to deploy.

GM's dual depth air bag technology will debut on the 2006 Buick Lucerne and 2006 Cadillac DTS. Including the dual depth bag, six air bags are standard on each vehicle. Both the Lucerne and DTS will also feature a front passenger occupant detection system, which disables the air bag if a child or smaller person is sensed sitting on the passenger seat.

(see headlines)

(see headlines)

QUEEN'S PARK, ON, Jan. 20 /CNW/ - The Honourable Joe Volpe, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), and the Honourable Mary Anne Chambers, Ontario's Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, today announced a joint initiative to strengthen higher level and job-specific language training for internationally trained newcomers in the province. The Ontario government and CIC are jointly investing $3.4 million over two years to support 13 projects under the Enhanced Language Training
Initiative. The projects will deliver job-specific language training to more than 1,300 internationally trained individuals to help them make the transition to Ontario's workforce.

"One of the keys to our continued prosperity and competitiveness will be the degree to which foreign-trained professionals and skilled workers are able to successfully integrate into society and our workforce," said Minister Volpe. "The Government of Canada invests $20 million annually in its Enhanced Language Training Initiative and I am pleased to work with Ontario so that more immigrants can pursue professions and trades that make full use of the talents and skills they bring to Canada."

"Our government recognizes the important contribution newcomers make to ensuring a strong and prosperous economy for all Ontarians," Chambers said. "By providing the internationally trained with higher level language training, we are helping them to be successful in their efforts to obtain employment in the occupations for which they have been trained. It is important to all Ontarians that these skills not go to waste."

More than 70 per cent of adult immigrants who come to Ontario are highly skilled with postsecondary education or training. While the provincial and federal governments have a long history of providing basic English and French as second language programs, the issue for internationally trained individuals has been the requirement for higher level language skills that are specific to each occupation.

"The funding will allow us to develop and deliver higher level language training that will help newcomers carry out successful job searches and work effectively in our workplaces," said Phyllis Sereda, Executive Director of the Peel Adult Learning Centre in Mississauga.

This investment is part of the Ontario government's plan to improve access for the internationally trained to their chosen professions and trades. Ontario is providing $12.5 million annually to meet this commitment.

"Our goal in negotiating a Canada - Ontario Immigration Agreement is to help newcomers integrate successfully into the economy and the community," said Dr. Marie Bountrogianni, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration.

"Higher level language training for newcomers is an essential part of helping them bridge the gap to become employed in jobs for which they are trained and qualified."

(see headlines)

A half dozen PT Cruisers were damaged during a transit mishap in Windsor last month in what people say could have been a spectacular train wreck. Fortunately, the damage was minor and no one was injured.

It seems a train containing a string of six tri-level automotive carriers tried to speed into CP Rail's Windsor-Detroit tunnel at approximately 100 Km. Unfortunately, CP's 85-year old tunnel isn't tall enough to accommodate tri-levels, which have to be unloaded in Toronto or routed trough rival CN's tunnel in Sarnia.

Consequently when a string of tall cars carrying PT Cruisers was mistakenly routed through Windsor, the cars were given a quick haircut as the train sped through the tunnel. A Chrysler Canada spokeswomen said the damage was minor. The cars will be repaired and sold at auction to dealers, who will resell them with full disclosure of the prior damage.

(see headlines)

A major insurance discussion panel with senior insurance industry representatives in October of last year at the CIIA dinner event, set the stage for the invitation to present a major collision repair information and request package to the Insurance Bureau of Canada's (IBC) Claims Committee today.

During the half-hour presentation to over 30 senior claims managers from Canadian insurers, collision industry representatives highlighted the efforts the association has made in reducing abuse, providing support for new regulations to be introduced soon on deceptive practices and identified the web site information highlighting CIIA's successes in attracting more young apprentices to the industry.

Time was spent on identifying the profit crisis at shops that has lead to reduced hiring of young people and the value of a standardized program for shops as identified in the Collision Repair Standards Act, which although unanimously approved by Queen's Park, remains to be implemented.

The new sprayc.a.r.e accreditation and new www.autobodyhelp.ca online programs were also highlighted.

Insurers were asked to contribute to a major apprenticeship innovation program designed to fill the apprenticeship training classes at auto body and collision repair training colleges across Canada. Some insurers were receptive to the program and requested more information. Further meetings are planned.

This is the not the first time that the association has updated insurers at senior levels and CIIA remains the only collision repair industry association that continues to be invited by IBC to better inform claims managers in Canada of our industry's issues.

For more information on the insurance industry presentation please contact the CIIA office at 1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com

(see headlines)

ADP, a major supplier of labour time information and parts identification to collision repairers in Canada has now provided the claims forms that shops can use to obtain re-imbursement for any loss of monies caused by the use of their October 2004 CD-ROM of pricing and time data.

That information contained errors that lowered repair times on some 160 vehicles. For a list of those vehicles see:
http://www.support.adpclaims.com/SpecialNotices/NoticeOct04Affected.htm

ADP has decided that, although under no legal obligation to do so, they will offer collision repairers a re-imbursement for the losses a shop may have incurred through billings that may have been lower than normal due to these lowered prices.

Shops can obtain the claim forms and filing information at:
http://www.support.adpclaims.com/specialnotices/ClaimsForm.pdf

Further information is also available on the Canadian collision industry web
site at: http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/newsevents.html#adp

The models, ranging from compact coupes to upscale sedans, will be sold at 250 dealers.

CHICAGO -- Malcolm Bricklin, the man who brought the notorious Yugo to America in the 1980s, will sell a line of Chinese-built cars beginning in 2007 with starting prices as low as $6,900, the entrepreneur said Wednesday.

The cars, which range from compact coupes to upscale sedans, will be sold through a network of 250 dealerships that will feature test tracks, customer lounges and a jumbo video screen that will double as a drive-in movie theater, Bricklin said

Each dealership, located far from rivals, will be 20,000 square feet. About 1,000 people already have inquired about buying a franchise, he said.

"If I can get enough people looking at my car and driving my car at these prices, people are going to be buying," Bricklin said in an interview at the Chicago Auto Show.

Under an exclusive deal, the cars will be built by Chinese automaker Chery Automobile Co. and distributed by Bricklin's new company, New York-based Visionary Vehicles LLC. Top-end models will sell for between $20,000 and $25,000.

Bricklin expects to introduce one new model every two months for three years -- for a total of 20 new vehicles. He has set a sales target of 250,000 units in 2007, and sales of 1 million a year within four years.

Production for each model will be limited to 50,000 vehicles and product line will include vehicles with four, six-, and eight-cylinder engines.

Bricklin, who has had moments of spectacular success and failure in the auto business over the years, insists the Chery-built cars will be free of the horrid quality problems that plagued the Yugo when it was introduced in the 1980. The Yugo, Bricklin said, was built in an old factory by untrained workers in a war-torn country.

"This is a company that has quality," Bricklin said of Chery, which sold slightly less than 90,000 vehicles last year. Chery is one of China's second-tier automakers, and the eighth-biggest in the country.

As a hedge, however, the Chinese cars will carry a warranty good for 100,000 miles or 10 years from purchase. Hyundai Motor Co. and other automakers have offered similar warranties in the U.S. market to overcome customer concerns about quality.

Value is the hook, however. Prototypes of the models have been designed by renowned Italian designer Bertone. The curvy, sleek vehicles are aimed at going head-to-head with every major automaker -- from Subaru to BMW -- at a fraction of the price.

For example, Bricklin said a Chery-made car aimed at BMW AG's 6-series would be priced at less than $20,000 and include a V-8 turbocharged engine.

The first models to be sold here will be unveiled next year at auto shows in Detroit, Chicago and New York.

Visionary Vehicles is receiving financial backing from New York investment firm Allen & Co.

Privately held Visionary Vehicles has committed to invest $200 million in the product program at Chery for the U.S. market.

Visionary Vehicles hasn't decided what brand will be used to market the Chery-built vehicles, but make no mistake, says Bricklin, sales will begin in 2007.

"We're committed," he said. "This is in fast gear."

By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News

(see headlines)

Ontario's Ministry of Transportation has met for four full days with stakeholder representatives from the insurance, enforcement, recycler, new and used car dealers and collision repair sectors. Also invited were representatives of the heavy-duty truck industry.

As part of Ontario's commitment to the Stolen and Salvage Vehicle Project that became mandatory in March of 2003, the province promised new review and possible regulation changes within a 12-18 month period. These meetings keep the province's commitment intact.

The committee meeting arranged by MTO after a general overview meeting was held on December 12, looked at four major areas of Business/process improvement, technical arrears, and training/public education/communications. The fourth review area looked at heavy truck applications.

MTO officials have sent summary recommendations and possible alternative solutions to the stakeholders requesting comment.

Recommendations were sent by MTO on Monday Jan 24 and were required to be reviewed and commented on by January 27, 2005

The current MTO Salvage Branding and Inspection program is available for review at: http://www.ciia.com/mandatorybranding.html

HARA was the only collision repair trade association with representatives in attendance. Mr. Jim Cowan, formerly Mandatory Branding Administrator for MTO and John Norris, HARA's Executive Director attended.

(see headlines)

In October 2005, ADP-provided shops were forwarded a refinish schedule that was inaccurate. This schedule reduced the refinish times for a range of 160 vehicles http://www.support.adpclaims.com/SpecialNotices/NoticeOct04Affected.htm. This reduction in times was not spotted by the majority of shops and was interfaced into their normal pricing activity.

When the error was found, ADP quickly forwarded a new cd-rom and other delivery programs to help shops in an effort to bring the prices back up to normal levels.

ADP had now announced that insurance supplements are being normally allowed and even though not legally bound, has offered re-imbursement to shops for the lost income caused by the faulty data on the October information sent by ADP. The deadline for re-imbursement claims is February 28, 2005.

ADP should be congratulated for coming forward, admitting their error and taking steps above and beyond their legal obligations to solve this issue and provide proper re-imbursement for shops.

This open admission of an error and honest attempt at solving shop income losses because of it is a good and proper effort at identifying to their customers that ADP is being fair in the marketplace. ADP should however, in all good faith, ask themselves why it took three months to arrange the re-imbursement offer and why no shop will be compensated for the extra time and costs needed to file all their claims to receive monies lost.

Executive Director,

HARA

(see headlines)

Member shops are receiving aggressive sales calls from an engineering firm advising that they must file an emissions summary under Ontario Regulation 127/01 and a federal requirement called National Pollutant Release Inventory or NPRI. Shops are told that the shop will be in violation of new federal and provincial regulations and must complete an authorization to hire their consultant at a minimum $600 fee to complete this work. An authorization contract is faxed to the shop, whether requested or not. Shops should be
aware, that work by CIIA has been successful in modifying this regulation. Since 2001, shops that can reasonably be expected to use less than 3,000 kilograms of coating materials during the year or less than 3,000 kilograms of solvents during the year are exempt from this reporting.

The vast majority of collision repair and paint facilities do not meet this threshold and need do nothing to meet the regulation requirement. Shops that emit over 10 tonnes of emissions annually (less than half of one percent of shops),however, need to report. Most shops that have already hired and paid this firm would have received a consultant's report advising them that their shop already meets the regulatory requirements and need do nothing. CIIA has reached an agreement with this firm to cease and desist from this activity and the firm has agreed to contact their current clients and to inform all those that may contact them of this exemption. Member shops are urged to call CIIA at 1-866-309-4272 for more information or access: http://www.autobodyhelp.ca/regulation.html

PRICING ALERT

Complaints are being received that shops are paying from $2800 to $6600 for a provincial Certificate of Approval for their spray booth and paint operations. Facilities that spray paint are required to possess a valid Certificate of Approval issued by the Ontario Ministry of Environment. This Certificate is sometimes called a Section 9 or Air Permit or Booth Permit. This requirement has been in place for over 20 years and CIIA has worked
with the Ministry to provide a one-page simplified application package rather then the current 82-page process. CIIA uses consultants that are "capped" at a $1200 fee for their complete work. Because this lower capped price from CIIA is known in the engineering and consultant marketplace, shops are sometimes quoted this fee and receive a $1200 invoice from outside consultants, marked "Initial Fee". Once the work is accomplished the
consultant sends the shop a much larger second invoice. Complaints have also been received of consultants receiving the cheque for expected work and disappearing. Be aware that other organizations are advertising this service and use consultants that charge $3000 or over for this "service". Please call CIIA for any information or if you need this "permit" work done at 1-866-309-4272 or view: http://www.autobodyhelp.ca/explanation.html

PROVINCIAL OFFENSES ORDERS

Over 200 auto refinish facilities have received an enforcement group generated provincial offense order to obtain this "Certificate of Approval". If an order was issued to you, it can be a very serious legal matter if you do not proceed and obtain that Certificate, however, do not be rushed into using any consultant in the phone book without checking with your industry trade association, CIIA. Call CIIA at 1-866-309-4272 for more
information or access information on the SWAT team at: http://www.autobodyhelp.ca/swat.html

(see headlines)

HARA Executive Director John Norris has been appointed as a volunteer director joining the nine -member Board of the Canadian Centre for Pollution Prevention, the eminent authority on pollution prevention in Canada.

A recognized leader in pollution prevention, the Canadian Centre for Pollution Prevention (C2P2) encourages actions that avoid or minimize the creation of pollution and waste - pollution prevention (P2) - actions that foster a healthier environment and a sustainable society.

C2P2 is a non-profit, non-government organization supported by members and sponsors. Their Board of Directors represents business, governments, trade associations and academia.

Their core business is the transfer of P2 information. But, they do more. C2P2 serves as a catalyst for behavioural change. They share knowledge with others so that they can include pollution prevention in everyday decision-making. C2P2 and its staff operate from their office in Sarnia, Ontario.

Other Directors include:

Firman Bentley, ADAMAC Management Group
Raymond Cote Professor, Dalhousie University
Fred Granek Ontario Centre for Environmental Technology Advancement
Doug Harper Ontario Ministry of Environment (retired)
Marianne Lines Consultant
Yasmin Tarmohamed Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association
David Parker Teck Cominco Ltd
Tom McGuire Dofasco Inc.
Ron Shimizu LOBA Ltd.

More information on C2P2 is available at www.c2p2online.com

(see headlines)

The HARA office is receiving complaints from member shops that they are receiving telephone solicitations from environmental or engineering firms.

Those firms are telling shops that they are legally obligated to file an emissions report with the province's Ministry of Environment and should hire their firm to do the work. Complainants advise that these solicitation efforts are active and aggressive.

Shops are reminded that in the vast majority of cases, auto refinish shops are EXEMPT from these reporting requirements.

HARA has worked with the government for some time in order to amend Ontario Regulation 127/01 that was passed by the Cabinet to mandate emission summary reporting.

Indeed, the auto refinish sector is the only sector exempted from the regulations because of the hard work of HARA.

Please note:

- The facility can reasonably be expected to use 3,000 kilograms or more of coating materials during the year.

- The facility can reasonably be expected to use 3,000 kilograms or more of solvents during the year.

Auto refinish facilities that are below these two thresholds DO NOT have to report.

The few facilities that exceed these thresholds may have to examine their emissions and determine and identify the type of emissions and quantity of these emissions. Most are still exempt. They should first call the association at 1-866-309-4272 to find out if they are still exempt.

Further, those few shops (less than 1%) that exceed a further threshold of 10 tonnes per year of Volatile Organic Compounds will be required to do a much more in-depth review and reporting of their emissions, and should call us for help.

If you are being called with these solicitation attempts for business please let HARA know.

For more information please see: http://www.autobodyhelp.ca/regulation.html

(see headlines)

ONTARIO HOLDS HIGH LEVEL STAKEHOLDER MEETING ON INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR IN AUTO INSURANCE SYSTEM

February 4, 2005

A wide range of government, health care regulatory colleges, law associations and government officials attended an all-day meeting to clarify mutual understanding of categories of inappropriate behavior and the handling of complaints of inappropriate stakeholder behavior in the auto insurance system.

The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO), who administers and monitors the insurance industry sponsored the meeting at the North York Civic Centre. Anne Grant of Mediated Solutions Inc facilitated the discussions.

In attendance were 12 health care provider associations, 8 regulatory colleges, 8 insurance groups, 8 legal groups, 7 government agencies plus OPP, and the collision repair association (CIIA).

Stakeholders explained their roles in the auto insurance system, how they handle complaints and their frustrations. Many learned how their information and complaint-handling actions affected other groups, might better be handled and the tools available to them.

Ministry of Consumer and Business Services representatives identified that collision repair accounts for less than 2% of all auto complaints, however towing pricing abuse complaints were identified as a major problem. New proposed regulations to the Insurance Act were promoted as a good start to solving some of those problems.

CIIA's representative identified that the implementation of the Collision Repair Standards Act would solve a number of abuse issues that were identified in the collision repair sector and urged it's acceptance. CIIA also complained that insurance companies need better regulatory tools to not pay fraudulent towing and storage invoices. "When insurers pay these inflated unrealistic and fraudulent invoices they are simply rewarding the
"bad apples" and encouraging more abuse."

CIIA also urged in its summary report that inconsistencies in insurance company acceptance and payment be addressed. " Insurers would never pay a health care provider for services if they had no professional license or license number, yet insurers will pay for critical structural safety repairs on sophisticated vehicles to shops and technicians who possess none of the mandated trades licenses in this province."

CIIA is also scheduled to make a major presentation to the Insurance Bureau of Canada's Claims Committee on Monday to better link relationships between the two industries.

(see headlines)

February 2, 2005

A number of workers in the autobody and collision damage repair trade have been employed in the trade in excess of the 7000 hours required for a licensed technician. However, they are not registered technicians.

Traditionally the only way to become a licensed technician would be to complete an in-school learning portion of 720 hours for training as a registered apprentice and an approximate time of three years working with a qualified technician, before challenging the qualification exam. An alternative equivalency process is also available. CIIA has introduced a free package. Included in the package are:

Process for trades equivalency including application page

Curriculum of competencies required

Pre-license training class information

Fee information for license exam

Grants, incentives and tax deductions to hire an apprentice.

Ten Top Steps to Become a Collision Repair Apprentice

If you need this free package or have an employee who has never completed trades school or completed his/her Certificate of Qualification exam, please contact us.

Please call CIIA at 1-866-309-4272 or e-mail info@ciia.com

The online version of the Top Ten Steps to Become a Collision Repair Apprentice can be found at: http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/stepstoapp.html

(see headlines)

Presentations and workshops continue across southern Ontario as the collision repair trade association and others highlight good job prospects in collision repair.

From presentations to job seekers in Thorold, Ontario to complete apprenticeship forums in Stoney Creek, HARA, the collision repair trade association, is highlighting events that feature hand-outs, testimonials and cd-rom overviews of industry opportunities. The association is partnering with other skilled trades groups in leveraging the message.

Using the CCIF recruitment cd-rom, "The Art of Earning- Hi-tech Careers in the Collision Repair Industry", young people are urged to consider the collision repair industry for their future vocation.

Events include:

Journey to the Trades Forum, with the Business Education Council of Niagara February 2 at Four Points Sheraton in Thorold

Total Apprentice Forum, with the Skilled Trades Alliance February 19 at Mohawk College, Stoney Creek

Skilled Trades Job Fair, partnered with YMCA Career Development in Burlington on February 24,

Trades fair with the French-language school board in Niagara on April 19

Employment opportunities and help wanted ads for collision repair are featured online with over 50 new collision repair openings posted each week at:
www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/employment.html

(see headlines)

CIAG, the Collision Industry Action Group, has lost it's second Executive officer in a year with Mike Bryan, now no longer associated with the company. No reason was noted in CIAG's latest news release.

Mr. Bryan is also the administrator for the CCIF, Canadian Collision Industry Forum, which was not affected

Mr. Bryan's name was printed as the sender of a letter that sent unsolicited invoices out to a number of shops, government offices and others in June of 2004 and generated warnings from at least one local trade association that they did not authorize CIAG to invoice their member shops.

Rosanna Armata, until recently the Executive Director of CSN, Collision Service Network, a private group of jointly marketed collision repair shops will become the third CIAG executive member in the last year.

(see headlines)

TORONTO, Jan. 18 /CNW/ - Insurance Bureau of Canada today announced that Ontario auto insurance consumers will save an estimated $900 million this year.

"Consumers can expect lower auto premiums in 2005. This is a direct result of a financially stronger, more competitive insurance industry and essential reforms undertaken by the Ontario government," said Mark Yakabuski, Vice President, Federal Affairs & Ontario, Insurance Bureau of Canada.

"Drivers should shop around and consult with their insurance representatives to make sure they are taking advantage of declining rates. These savings are unprecedented." he said.
Yakabuski was responding to the release by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) of approved auto insurance rate changes for the fourth quarter 2004. FSCO confirmed that approved rates are now 10.6% lower than they were one year ago. This reduction exceeds the government's own commitment.

The approved rate reductions of 10.6% tell only part of the insurance savings story. According to industry data collected by IBC, premiums for private passenger vehicles in Ontario have actually gone down by 12% since November 2003. The average premium has declined from $1,499 to $1,319 during this period. Savings are even greater if commercial vehicles are included.

"This good news is the result of industry working closely together with the government to implement essential reforms to the Ontario auto insurance system over the past several months," Yakabuski said. "Today's announcement shows that the intense work over these months to address mounting claims costs has been well worth it -- for consumers most of all." Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national trade association of the private property and casualty insurance industry. It represents more than 90% of the non-government home, car and business insurance in Canada. To view news releases and information, visit the media section of IBC's website at www.ibc.ca.

(see headlines)

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., February 3, 2005 -- BASF has introduced an enhanced version of its Automotive Refinish website, www.basfrefinish.com, that enables users to obtain more information more quickly than on the site's previous version.

The enhanced website is much faster, includes new links to BASF's innovative online "eStore" and serves as a portal to BASF's eCommerce websites, such as bodyshopmall.com, ColorSourceMall.com and PBEMall.com.

The basfrefinish.com website remains the single source for BASF's jobber and body shop customers seeking information about BASF's products, value-added services and tools.

"BASF was an industry leader in helping its refinish customers take advantage of the power and convenience of the Internet, and the latest enhancements to our basfrefinish.com website continue that tradition of innovative leadership," said Robert Roewer, Manager, E-Business Development for BASF's Automotive Refinish business in North America. "Our goal from the start was to make it easier for our customers to do business with BASF, and to obtain the information they need to be more successful in their own business. The improved version of basfrefinish.com is another step in accomplishing that goal."

In addition to its enhanced speed and new functionalities, basfrefinish.com sports an entirely fresh graphic look and feel, which reflects BASF's new global corporate identity.

IAnet's President & CEO John A. Donley, said "Since the founding of IAnet, we have wanted to offer appraisal and adjusting services in Canada for American insurance companies. This relationship has made it possible and we could not be happier."

Kristy Hill, Director of Operations for CAPDA, said "The benefit to our respective clientele is tremendous, and we are looking forward to offering our clients reliable, professional service both across Canada and now throughout the USA".

IAnet is a nationwide network of 2800 independent adjusters, appraisers and insurance claims professionals.

(see headlines)

"We plan to integrate the Globe Network into our U.S. based Gerber Collision & Glass head office." said Terry Smith, President and CEO of the Boyd Group.

"Though we provide auto glass repair and replacement services in our Canadian locations as well as our Gerber Collision & Glass facilities in Illinois, we do not currently offer auto glass services in the balance of our U.S. locations. Through the Globe Network, we will refer network repairs to Boyd Group facilities, thereby providing us with an opportunity to
quickly and profitably introduce auto glass repair and replacement services to the balance of our U.S. locations."

Founded in 1976, the Globe Network owns and operates a call center in Chicago, and offers repair and replacement services across the U.S. through a network of approximately 7,000 independently owned businesses, targeting insurance companies and commercial fleets.

Senior management of the Globe Network, including Mr. John Kellman, President, and Mr. Michael Kellman, Senior Vice President, have been retained by the Boyd Group to manage the Globe Network's activities and will report directly to Mr. Eddie Cheskis, CEO of Boyd Group's Gerber Collision & Glass division. Cheskis is the former President of the USA Glass Network.

"This acquisition provides us with tremendous upside," said Eddie Cheskis, CEO of Gerber Collision & Glass. "Combining the Globe Network's track record of outstanding customer service with Boyd and Gerber's strength in providing insurance companies with superior collision repair claims management solutions, post acquisition, we will embark on a focused growth plan, with a mandate to significantly grow the Globe Network's share of market."

Gerber Collision & Glass was acquired by Boyd in February 2004. In the second quarter of 2004, Boyd Group initiated the roll-out of the Gerber Collision & Glass brand for all of its collision repair centers in the U.S. As Boyd Group expands its network of Gerber facilities in select regions throughout the U.S., it intends to grow its auto glass repair business
proportionately.

(see headlines)

While insurers have reportedly been accepting supplements to adjust any insurance-pay repair orders affected, there was, until now, no recourse for shops that had lost revenue on customer-pay work due to the ADP changes.

In a letter to CollisionWeek, ADP said that they have now instituted a program to reimburse shops for any lost revenue on customer-pay work caused by the database changes in October. For insurance-related work, the normal supplement process will still apply.

Instructions for submitting a claim to ADP for lost revenue are scheduled to be posted on their website today.

The following are excerpts from ADP's letter to CollisionWeek:

For insurance-related work, the normal supplement process applies. To assist any ADP clients who have questions regarding the supplement process, we have posted detailed instructions on our website.

For walk-in (customer paid) work performed by ADP clients during the time period in question, ADP has set up a process for clients to submit claims to ADP for reimbursement of lost revenue. ADP has decided to voluntarily provide this reimbursement even though ADP's client contracts' limitations of liability do not obligate ADP to do so. We will post detailed information about this process on our website on Monday, January 10, 2005.

We regret any inconvenience this may have caused ADP clients, and trust that putting in place the above processes will sufficiently address any outstanding concerns.

Refunds

(see headlines)

BASF Canada, and it semployees across the country have banded together to contribute funds to help the south-east Asia comunity that was devastated by an earthquake-caused tidal wave that swept tought 12 counties on December 26 leaving an estimated 200,000 residents and tourists dead. Propety damage is heavy and the livelihood of many residents wiped out by the tsunami.

"I am pleased to announce that the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft has already announced that BASF will provide $1 million in immediate aid and, in addition, has promised to match employee contributions made through January 31, 2005," said BASF Canada President John Clarke. "Here in Canada, we have selected the Canadian Red Cross to handle our employee contributions and ensure that those contributions are matched by BASF Canada."

(see headlines)

TORONTO, Jan. 26 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government is helping prepare the internationally trained for workforce success by investing in programs that provide skills training, Mary Anne Chambers, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, announced today.

"Newcomers arrive on our province's doorstep with immense skills, knowledge and experience," said Chambers. "We must capitalize on the tremendous benefits internationally trained individuals bring by helping them integrate more rapidly into our workforce, and strengthening our economy."

Three non-profit agencies will receive more than $1.5 million annually to provide career and employment preparation services to adult newcomers through the ministry's Job Connect Program. The services will focus on the internationally trained in Brampton, Etobicoke, Mississauga and Ottawa, where a large number of newcomers settle.

"By offering new employment services through the Job Connect Program, we will be able to help the internationally trained in Etobicoke not only work in their chosen field, but also reach their full potential," said Kay Blair, executive director of the Community MicroSkills Development Centre.

The Job Connect Program helps people plan, prepare for and succeed in the job market. Community-based colleges and non-profit agencies, such as youth employment centres and Adult Help Centres, deliver the program. Each year, Job Connect helps more than 125,000 people through 130 sites in 80 communities across the province.

This is part of the government's commitment to improve access for the internationally trained to the professions and trades they were trained to perform. As announced in the 2004 Budget, the government is providing $9.5 million in 2004-05 and will provide $12.5 million annually from 2005-06 to meet this commitment.

(see headlines)

CCIF is a national forum that holds four meetings per year in different cities across the country. CCIF offers the opportunity to listen and learn from others, to share ideas, and voice opinions on current issues in a non-confrontational forum.

April 16 CCIF Surrey, BCSheraton Guildford

June 18 CCIF Fredericton, NB Delta Fredericton



Oct. 15 CCIF Regina, SK - Location to be announced

For additional information about the CCIF visit their website.

(see headlines)

January 26, 2005

Companies involved in the Canadian automotive aftermarket have contributed more than $4 million to the Tsunami Relief Efforts.

On behalf of the aftermarket industry, AIA presented a cheque to the Canadian Red Cross in the amount of $22,227, which was raised directly in less than three days.

As a result of urging from members of the Canadian automotive aftermarket, the Automotive Industries Association of Canada and Jobbers News, SSGM, and Autoserviceworld.com coordinated efforts to help raise funds for the Tsunamis stricken region in Asia. Gates Canada ignited the industry with a $1000 challenge which was quickly met by companies such as Zurawel Patton Sample, Ultra Fit Exhaust Systems and a number of warehouse distributors and jobber stores.

"Zurawel Patton Sample is very pleased to note that AIA has stepped in to coordinate this fundraising effort. We will be matching the challenge amount set by Gates Canada," responded Gord Patton within minutes of receiving the AIA advisory regarding the Tsunami.

"AIA knew that if each AIA member were to make a donation, the aftermarket industry could make a significant contribution to the tsunami relief effort," said AIA President Ray Datt. "The area hit by the tsunami is in such great need and will be for years to come, many aftermarket companies felt the need to take some sort of action. AIA and Jobber News felt that the most efficient and effective thing to do is to work with a respected and
experienced agency like the Red Cross."

"The more than $22,000 donated to the Red Cross was primarily raised as a result of jobber contributions," says Jobber News Editor and Publisher Andrew Ross. "Jobbers are an important member and contributor to their local economy, I think they understood more than everyone else how this natural disaster would impact the small and rural communities hit by the disaster."

A number of members also raised money on their own for the relief effort. Lordco staff raised over $5000 in the first few days after the disaster. "I am going to match dollar for dollar what the staff contributes," indicated Lordco President Ed Coates. "I expect we will raise over $25,000."

Piston Ring Service in Winnipeg allowed its employees to donate through payroll deduction regardless of the amount; it also let employees convert vacation and overtime accruals into actual dollars. Some of its employee's children shovelled snow to raise money. Piston Ring also collected funds from some of its local manufacturing representatives who wanted to get involved. Piston Ring chose the Mennonite Central Committee for its donation because they are an on-the-ground, hands-on, grassroots charity with an ongoing physical presence in the area. "We are very proud of the way our employees joined together to raise funds and are pleased to report that our final donation, including matching funds from head office, exceeded $10,000," says Piston Rings John Tennant.

Many people made personal donations, such as Debra and Bruce Hague who made their donation in loving memory of William Forrester Taylor.

"AIA was also proud to see that so many of its large member companies, who are multinationals, had fuelled the tsunami relief efforts by making significant contributions," stated Ray Datt.

"Great idea for the AIA to raise funds for the Tsunami relief effort. I just wanted to let you know that as a global company with operations in that part of the world Shell (including subsidiary Pennzoil Quaker State) has decided to make a $1 million donation to the relief effort," says Owen McManamon, Pennzoil Quaker State.

"I am pleased to announce that the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft has already announced that BASF will provide $1 million in immediate aid and, in addition, has promised to match employee contributions made through January 31, 2005," said BASF Canada President John Clarke. "Here in Canada, we have selected the Canadian Red Cross to handle our employee contributions and ensure that those contributions are matched by BASF Canada."

"Immediately following the first news reports, we began to account for employees and contact clients in the affected areas. Within hours, we deployed IBM Crisis Response Teams in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand to assist local governments and relief organizations," said IBM Chairman and CEO Sam Palmissano.

"These teams are prepared, skilled and authorized to coordinate IBM's response to situations like this one. Our support in Asia includes hardware, software and, most important, our expertise, which are being applied to the design and implementation of systems for tracking missing persons, fatality data, logistics management, donation management, volunteer coordination and unique government social and financial support systems. Our teams are building systems and solutions that can be applied across agencies and the affected countries. We are also working directly with United Nations
agencies and international relief organizations to help coordinate technology support. I authorized a preliminary allocation of $1 million to support these relief efforts."

"Honeywell will donate $1 million to assist with relief efforts in the areas most severely damaged by last week's disaster. The donation, made through Honeywell Hometown Solutions, will target programs to rebuild damaged and destroyed communities and provide basic necessities for survivors," explained Honeywell CEO Dave Cote. "Several Honeywell employee teams from around the world have already united in volunteer efforts. A Honeywell team from Bangalore, India, is supporting a 90-day construction effort to rebuild
50 houses in one of the most severely affected villages. Separately, each of Honeywell's 1,500 employees in Pune, India, has agreed to donate one day's salary to relief efforts. Teams of employees have also delivered clothes, utensils, and other basic amenities to the affected village of Kulachol, India."

"I know everyone in the Canadian automotive aftermarket industry joins me in saying that our thoughts and prayers are with the millions of people who are suffering as a result of the catastrophe," says Datt. "In the coming weeks and month, if the disaster relief teams require any kind of automotive aftermarket expertise in the rebuilding effort, we would be happy to coordinate a volunteer effort."

The AIA, Jobber News Magazine, SSGM and Autoserviceworld.com would like to thank the following companies and individuals for making a contribution to the Automotive Aftermarket Tsunami Relief Effort:

Action Automotive & Towing
Accesoires d'autos Roberval (1986) ltée
Aero P.R. Services Ltd
AIA Manitoba Division
Auto Atlantic Magazine (ALFERS ADVERTISING)
Amin Zaman, AZ-Co International
Andrew Ross, Jobber News Magazine
A-Star Automotive Recyclers Ltd
Auto Sense Auto Parts
Automotive Parts Centres Corp, Vicky Baroudi
B&B Dixon Automotive Inc.
BASE Automotive
Bruce & Debra Hague
Bumper to Bumper Hanna
Chieftain Auto Parts (1987) Inc.
D&T Auto Parts Ltd
Dempster's Automotive Supplies Ltd
Excel Sales
Exide Canada Inc.
Gates Canada Inc.
Gorwood Automotive
McArthur's Automotive & Supply Ltd., Gwen McArthur
Hood Hardware and Automotive Ltd
Industrial Supplies Ltd
John Morris, Marcovitch Public Relations
John Vanstone, Specialty Sales & Marketing
Keith Gordon, Specialty Sales & Marketing
Ken Coulter, Specialty Sales & Marketing
Lavoie & Beaudry Inc.
Lisa McClelland, NAPA Canada
Loran Faraday, Exide Canada Inc.
Marc Brazeau, AIA Canada
Mike Bryan, Michael Bryan & Associates
Paint FX Autobody &
Parcoll Products Limited
Parts Unlimited Inc.
Phillipe Sirois, NAPA Canada
Pico of Canada Ltd
Pièces d'auto Blouin & Roy Inc.
Pieces d'Auto Leon Grenier Inc.
Pieces d'auto MB7 Inc.
Pieces d'autos B.L.
Pieces d'auto de la Baie, Marcel Mercier
Pieces d'auto S.M. Inc., Serge Millette
R.A.D. Limited
Rayner's Automotive Ltd
Replacement Parts Depot Limited
Richard Repair Services Ltd
Roland Zikmanis, Clearwater Impex Group
Serge LeBlanc, Specialty Sales & Marketing
Sherri Langfield, Specialty Sales & Marketing
SOLVIT
Southside Auto Supply Ltd
Stewart Auto Parts Ltd., Mary Wilson
Tom Wilson, NGK Spark Plugs
Trimax Automotive Parts Inc.
Ultra-Fit Exhaust Systems
Wakefield-Sperling Auto Parts
Zurawel Patton Sample

(see headlines)

The intense snowstorm, called an " Alberta Clipper" on Saturday, dumped some 25 centimeters of snow in just 6 hours over the southern Ontario region and more snow, up to 30 centimeters in the Thorold/St. Catharines area of Niagara region.

A number of major escarpment accesses were closes at various times as tandem snowplows could not see each other in the blinding snowstorm.

About 75 people were trapped on the Lake Ontario waterfront around Confederation Park and were taken inside a local restaurant until roads were cleared.

Motels and hotels reported turning people from already fully booked facilities or having them stay in the lobby while the roads was plowed and the snowstorm abated.

Police reported hundreds of minor collisions in the Hamilton and southern Ontario areas. No traffic related injuries or deaths were reported.

By 11 am Sunday, Hamilton police had responded to 744 emergency calls.

Police couldn't say how many were snow-related accidents but Staff Sergeant Ian Matthews said they had to close the collision reporting centre to keep people from venturing out into the storm and possibly getting into an accident themselves.

OPP reported 1,242 car accidents by 5:00 pm Sunday. Most were in the GTA and were low speed collisions into guardrails, ditches and each other. There were no fatalities.

(see headlines)

Yes, It's true. The industry web site at www.ciia.com operated by HARA, for the one year period ending October 30 recorded over 2.5 million hits

This is the largest use autobody web site in North America and continues to be incredibly popular in our news event, shops and employment sections, says John Norris, HARA's Executive Director.

Hits per day are climbing to over 10,000 per day in November 2004, with over 140,000 people actually making use of the web site during the last 12 months.

Over 35 million kilobytes of information were used in the last year with users of the site reading a total of 302,000 separate pages of information.

Shops and suppliers can advertise themselves on the site by contacting Helena at info@ciia.com

All site use is recorded daily and is open for viewing at www.ciia.com/stats

(see headlines)

HARA introduces another reason to be a member

November 10, 2004

Starting December 1, all HARA member shops will start to receive the new SB Partners newsletter that addresses modern business concerns.

Delivered electronically by HARA’s audit firm, the newsletter will be sent automatically to all HARA members by e-mail.

In past issues the newsletter handled topics such as:

- Business valuation
- Personal financial planning
- Minimizing credit card fraud
- Long term strategizing
- Technology and check-ups for your business
- GST and tax credit programs
- Financial indicators and check lists for your shop
- Auto deduction limits for tax planning and reporting

HARA President Tony Nigro says “this is just another advantage of HARA membership. We now offer special environmental and WHMIS training, new profitability manuals and product discounts and this new free service for members makes association membership even more valuable.”

Any member shop who does not want to receive this free assistance, should e-mail info@ciia.com or 1-866-309-4272 (HARA) and will be removed from the list.

HARA also reminds shops to access the free “Productivity” section of the industry web site for new “not-included” lists, ADP and Mitchell online estimating, aftermarket parts information, labour complaint time forms and small parts listing for payment. All of this and more is available at: www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/productivity.html

(see headlines)

NEW HARA CONTACT INFORMATION

The HARA office has new phone numbers. We apologize for any recent inconvenience. We are eager to hear from you and help you with any problems or needs.

Our new contact information is below:

Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA)
mailing: P.O. Box 47594, Centre Mall,
Hamilton, Ontario
L8H 7S7

Office: 350 Dosco Drive, 2nd Floor
Stoney Creek, Ontario
L8E 2N5

Phone (905) 664-7888
Fax (905) 664-3340
Toll free 1-866-309-4272 (HARA)

E-mail hara@ciia.com

Best wishes,

John Norris

(see headlines)