NATA TAKES VISTA TO OTTAWA

The Vehicle Information and Service Tool Access (VISTA) proposal, an initiative by NATA, the National Automotive Trades Association to resolve the so-called Right to Repair issue was recently presented to the federal government. Rene Young, the national organization's mechanical division chair reports that a meeting held on October 1, 2007 with Industry Canada was very productive.

"NATA Executive VP Dale Finch, Director Victor Marciano and I met with Alison Tait, the Director General of Industry Canada's Automotive and Transportation Branch and three of her staff members. We found them to be well informed about the OEM information access problem, but were able to provide them with some insight about it they had not previously been exposed to," said Young.

The NATA delegation felt the meeting provided them with "a feel for Industry Canada's appetite for getting involved". No decisions were reached during the session, but it was agreed that more specific information concerning the service information access matter would be exchanged over the coming weeks.

"We explained to Ms. Tait that NATA and its affiliated associations seek a voluntary agreement with the OEMs, and all we are asking the government to do is help get the OEMs to the table so that we can present our VISTA proposal. We were left with the impression that Industry Canada would sooner support an industry-led solution than write legislation," observed Young. "Notwithstanding this, it would be premature for us to make any statements to that effect - let me just say we are optimistic," he added.

According to Young, following the delegation's return from Ottawa a letter was received from Honourable Jim Prentice, the Minister of Industry, accepting NATA's request for a meeting. The date and location for the meeting would be determined shortly, Mr. Prentice said in his letter.

Editor's Note: For more information on the VISTA initiative, and the accessibility of technical information from the various vehicle manufacturers, visit www.natacanada.ca

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FOCUS ON CODE OF ETHICS

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 19, 2007- Nearly 40 members of the auto collision repair industry met today at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., for the ACAR (Accountability for Collision Auto Repair) event.

The purpose of the event was to focus collision repairers on the one aspect of the claims handling process they can control: standards. ACAR participants began work on a Code of Ethics modeled after guidelines produced by attorney Erica Eversman, who moderated the event.

"The collision industry needs a Code of Ethics," said Eversman. "It will assist people in understanding who the real customer is and what they owe that customer.

"To have an industry that deals with people's safety with no Code of Ethics or pre-set technical repair standards is mind-boggling," continued Eversman. "You have to have governing principles. If you don't do this, then less-knowledgeable people will."

Although participants represented many different repair associations and industry segments, attendees unanimously agreed that the collision repair industry needs a code of ethics. ACAR meeting participants worked their way through Eversman's draft Code of Ethics, beginning with defining terms as basic as "collision repairer" and "collision repair facility" and drawing a distinction between a "consumer" and a "customer" (neither of which is the insurance company).

The draft Code makes allowances for an industry peer review board, which would self-regulate the industry. Meeting participants discussed qualifications for potential review board members, stressing that they should not only have years of experience, but should be up-to-date on the latest training, as well.

Eversman said she drafted the Code of Ethics specifically with consumer protection in mind. "The Code will make everyone aware of the conflict between insurance regulations and the consumer protection laws that you must follow," she said. "Many repairers are currently breaching consumer protection laws."

The draft Code says that collision repairers owe "a duty of professional care to the customer and shall act in the best interests of the customer in repair decisions and recommendations."

"I still hear repairers saying, 'The insurance company will take liability if I repair according to their estimate,'" said Eversman. "I cannot disabuse people enough of that idea."

Regarding the section of the draft Code that deals with damage analysis, Eversman said, "It is absolutely inappropriate for a repairer to underwrite an estimate just to get the vehicle in the shop. It's a safety issue. If the vehicle should be a total loss, and you underwrite to get it in your shop, that is wrong."

Meeting participants agreed that today's gathering was a start. Those in attendance will now look over the draft Code of Ethics individually or with their repair associations at home and submit comments.

A second meeting to discuss the draft Code has been tentatively scheduled for March 28, 2008, a Friday, to coincide with the Northeast Regional Autobody/Automotive Trade Show in Suffern, N.Y.

Meeting attendees also agreed that the draft Code may serve as a foundation for minimum industry standards from coast to coast, though individual states will be free to make additions to the Code as their situations dictate.

ACAR meeting participants hope that the draft Code of Ethics will, at last, permit the auto collision repair industry to speak with one voice.

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The show's premiere edition connected suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, shop owners and installers with Canada's escalating automotive aftermarket.

Delivering on its commitment to the industry, Automechanika Canada provided participants with excellent training and education through its seminar and workshop program.

Automechanika Canada debuted on September 26-28, 2007 at the International Centre in Toronto, ON, as the only tradeshow in Canada dedicated to all facets of the automotive market.

The premiere edition of the exhibition drew 2907 participants to experience the products, services and technologies of the show's 202 exhibitors from 16 countries. In addition, an informative seminar and workshop program coupled with a diverse line up of onsite events were met with enthusiasm by the qualified buyers attending from 20 countries.

Automechanika Canada provided a platform for international suppliers to enter the Canadian marketplace and grow existing business in Canada. Manufacturers displayed products from around the world with representation from Brazil, China, Germany, India, Iran, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Portugal, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the U.S.

David Audrain, president of Messe Frankfurt, Inc. stated, "We were pleased to be able to deliver such a high quality event to the growing Canadian market this year. Automechanika Canada enabled aftermarket professionals to source new products from around the world and enhance their business in Canada."

As exhibitor Joe McDonald of Jasper Engines & Transmissions told the show's organizers, "With our interest in the Canadian market, the Automechanika Canada show was a nice springboard for obtaining new contacts and discussing our program with potential buyers."

From large distributors to small shops and service repair providers, Automechanika Canada was the meeting place for key industry professionals this September. Thousands of service and repair owners, technicians, retailers, distributors, installers, jobbers, manufacturers, media and industry professionals attended this year's event.

Nissan Canada, Inc.'s technical specialist, John Evers, shared his appreciation with organizers: "Thank you for allowing me to attend such an excellent show. There was very good representation of technology and information. I hope that Automechanika Canada becomes an annual event and continues to grow."

Buyers from the vehicle manufacturers, replacement parts, off-road, rescue and other sectors were able to see for themselves the innovations emerging from the supplier segment. "The show was great for us," said Eddie Basile, regional sales manager with Valeo. "We exhibited with three of our divisions - clutch, wiper/blade and heating & cooling. The outcome was phenomenal and we picked up a handful of very strong prospects at Automechanika Canada."

Other exhibitors shared their impressions of this first-ever exhibition:

Reinaldo Ribeiro, export manager with GAUSS Industria Comercio Autopecas: "Automechanika Canada was a great show and we made quality contacts, including important distributors in the market. We only had one customer in Canada coming into the show and we are now planning a visit back to Canada soon to follow up with our new contacts from the show."

Bruce Ruff, director of operations at Ross-Tech: "The show allowed us to get our Canadian distributors hyped up and talking to trade professionals. Overall, we saw quality attendance from the owners of shops to distributors to technicians - the right people!"

Fred Havers, owner of Ever-Wear Canada: "The show was excellent for us. We met single-location opportunities that were not being serviced. Automechanika Canada provided a venue for those individuals to source products and for us to develop new business."

In addition to sourcing the latest products, attendees engaged in educational and networking opportunities designed to enhance their Automechanika Canada experience. "Our goal is to become the industry forum for education, discussion, learning and sharing of knowledge and opinions," stated Carol Bell-LeNoury, general manager of Business Information Group, joint producer of the show with Messe Frankfurt USA.

Some special events and feature highlights included: · Automechanika Canada's Seminar & Workshop Program, supported by the show's partnering associations, featured 16 seminars and workshops presented by industry specialists. · The Pit Stop Challenge, sponsored by Castrol, put more than 150 people through the timed tire-changing challenge. From suits to overalls, everyone enjoyed the excitement and fun. Participants walked away with pride and prizes from Hunter Engineering and Castrol. · The Castrol Cars - the Pontiac Solstice and the Acurabot, unique high-performance machines were admired and appreciated by everyone. · The New Product Showcase, displaying more than 30 of the hottest new product innovations. Unique, different, unconventional and currently hitting the market, these products were of high interest to attendees. · The American Express Buyers Lounge had a steady stream of exhibitors and clients doing business in the meeting rooms and lounges. Open to all registered attendees exhibitors for networking - the American Express Buyers Lounge was the place to be. · SEMA's (Specialty Equipment Market Association) "tricked-out" specialty performance car exhibit drew thousands of attendees to observe the awesome aspects of these vehicles.

The organizers are already working on the following Automechanika Canada, June 18-20, 2008, which promises more innovation, more products and more opportunities for exhibitors and attendees in the Canadian aftermarket sector.

For further information, please visit www.AutomechanikaCanada.ca

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KEYSTONE SHAREHOLDERS APPROVE LKQ MERGER

ACAR Event At National Press Club On October 19

WASHINGTON, DC, September 24, 2007 - Collision repair professionals from around the country are set to meet on October 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the National Press Club, 14th and F Streets in Northwest Washington, D.C., on the 13th floor to discuss a Code of Ethics for collision repair. The National Press Club is less than three blocks from the White House.

Be a part of history.

Come join the effort to elevate the industry, which will set the standards for repair and repairers, provide for peer review in disputes, and be a model for any legislative body that has an eye on regulating the collision repair community.

ACAR is about following car manufacturer recommendations for repair. Repairers are the professionals. The car manufacturers and the paint manufacturers establish the repair methods and procedures. Repair professionals follow the manufacturers' guidelines. When the manufacturers are silent about the repair methods, the repair professionals need a framework in which to operate: thus the Code of Ethics.

ACAR is a forum to work on the Code of Ethics with input from repairers. Ohio attorney Erica Eversman drafted the Code of Ethics. Feedback on the Code is encouraged.

ACAR is not about direct repair program contracts, nor is it about insurance company involvement within the industry, other than the insurance contract requiring the insurer to write a check for the repairs.

The insurance contract calls for insurers to pay for either the repair or the replacement of the property damage.

ACAR will focus on repairs and repairers, industry professionalism, and providing workmanlike repairs for the motoring public.

Space is still available to attend the ACAR meeting.

Send payment of $150 to Sheila's Information Network, 5303 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20015.

Canadian Motorists' Warranty Misconception Costing the Aftermarket $1.3 Billion Annually

September 20, 2007, Ottawa , ON -- Market research conducted by AIA Canada has identified an alarming misconception among Canadian motorists which is costing the aftermarket $1.3 billion in lost revenues annually. 41% of motorists in Canada believe that it is mandatory to take their vehicle to a dealer for maintenance services in order to maintain warranty coverage. This confusion limits freedom and convenience for consumers, while aftermarket companies miss out on service opportunities for newer vehicles.

Currently there are $3.2 billion spent annually in maintenance work on vehicles under warranty in Canada. If 41% of these owners believe they HAVE to take their vehicle to a dealer for their maintenance work, it translates to $1.3 billion in potentially lost business for the aftermarket.

New car dealers are increasingly aggressive in advising consumers that they are the only choice for service and maintenance while the vehicle is under warranty. Informing consumers about the aftermarket alternative is imperative to protecting consumer choice.

AIA Canada's Retail Council has developed an industry-endorsed statement assuring Canadian vehicle owners that aftermarket shops are equally qualified and capable of maintaining a vehicle while it is still under the manufacturer's original warranty or an extended warranty.

The Notice to Consumers (attached below), now available as a printable PDF document at www.aiacanada.com , tackles two key issues. It confronts the dealer assertion regarding who is allowed to do the work and its impact on warranty coverage. It also addresses the issue of qualifications and the ability of aftermarket shops to provide service and repair during the warranty period.

AIA Canada's Right to Repair efforts as well as our ASP accreditation initiative are two ways the Association is working as an industry to address this misconception. Both initiatives will help improve consumer confidence in the aftermarket and improve viability of the independent repair facility. To learn more about how to take advantage of this opportunity to educate your clients join AIA at this year's AXIS event on Friday, November 23 rd. Dave Meunier, President of TACT, will talk about his Warranty Manager software and process which allows shops to build a relationship with existing customers who purchase a new vehicle to keep that customer coming back even while the vehicle is under warranty. And John Watt from Petro-Canada Certigard will discuss the merits of the MAP Canada program and how it can improve your customer satisfaction levels.

The 'Notice to Consumers' is provided for informational purposes only and as such is recommended, not mandated, for use in automotive facilities. Individuals have an obligation to review the contents of the Notice before posting it. AIA will not be held liable for any damages caused as a result of information outlined in the Notice.

About The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA)

AIA is a national trade association representing the automotive aftermarket industry in Canada . The aftermarket is a $16.1 billion industry that employs more than 220,000 people. The industry is composed of companies that manufacture, distribute and install automotive replacement parts, accessories, tools, and equipment.

AIA represents manufacturers, re-builders, manufacturers agents, warehouse distributors, national distributors, buying groups, wholesalers, machine shops, retailers, and through its councils, the interests of collision repair shops and automotive service and repair outlets.

(SEE HEADLINES)

EU Orders Major Carmakers To Provide Repair Information

September 14, 2007

Automechanika Canada Gives Shops Chance
To Connect With Apprentices

Career Day at Automechanika Canada provides employers with a chance to interview students interested in automotive careers and find their next apprentice right at the show. An area called Employment Alley allows students and employers to interact during the Career Day activities on Friday, September 28.

Young people and potential apprentices have been asked to electronically forward their resumes prior to the event. To view resumes, visit www.AutomechanikaCanada.ca and click on Career Day.

To register as an employer for this free opportunity at Interview Alley, please contact John Norris at 866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com.
Hundreds of students are expected to attend the Career Day at Automechanika Canada, where they will hear from workers in various automotive trades, visit the trade show, and participate in special events.

Automechanika Canada is an industry event dedicated to all elements of automotive aftermarket including parts, repair, accessories and service. The trade show and seminars run from September 26-28 at the International Centre, Toronto.

(SEE HEADLINES)

State Farm continues to evaluate its position regarding the specification of aftermarket crash parts and will maintain its current policy of not specifying aftermarket crash parts during this test. However, State Farm continues to believe that policyholders benefit when repairers have access to all sources of quality collision repair parts.

State Farm will test repairers' use of electronic parts-ordering systems that provide access to vehicle information and help increase order accuracy and efficiency. We believe this new approach will improve the repair and estimating process.

"While we recognize that this will represent change for the repair industry, it is important to continuously look for ways to create efficiency in the process and provide value for our policyholders and shared customers," said State Farm Claim Consultant George Avery. "As this process developed, we asked for and considered input from members of the collision repair industry. We believe Select Service® repairers will have an enhanced ability to obtain quality parts that allows them to provide customers with the best combination of quality, efficiency and competitive price. And as always, our customers are free to choose which repairer will fix their vehicle." (courtesy of www.autobodyonline.com)

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• The typical auto insurance policy holder has been with their carrier for more than ten years.
• Those customers who have reviewed their insurance needs with their insurer in the previous 12 months tend to be considerably more satisfied. However, one in three policy holders say they have not reviewed their policies since first selecting their current insurer; this group of consumers is particularly less satisfied, on average.
• Nine out of ten customers say they receive some kind of discount on their premium, yet those receiving dividends, accident or ticket forgiveness or credit for belonging to a professional organization tend to be the most satisfied with their insurer.

The 2007 National Auto Insurance Study is based on responses from 16,012 auto insurance policyholders who were surveyed in March and April 2007. To view the management discussion based on this year's study findings, please click the following link: http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/library/download/?files=9945348

For more information on car insurance provider ratings , please visit JDPower.com.

(SEE HEADLINES)

CAREER DAY FOR MOTIVE POWER IS AROUND THE CORNER

NASCAR speaker and chance to win a Lexus for your school adds excitement!!

Friday, September 28, 2007 (10:00 am - 3:00 pm) is the exciting Automechanika Motive Power Career Day at the International Centre, Airport Road, Mississauga.

Your chance to enjoy FREE admission, parking and seminars from over 20 agencies and guest speakers on career development for young people in motive power trades in Ontario.

With NASCAR's historian, Buz McKim, providing exciting racing presentations, an online employment resume posting package and a Lexus to be won by the school with the highest number of attending students, Motive Power Career Day will be one of the most exciting events this year in Ontario.

Over 150 exhibitors and dozens of career presentations will assist students with apprenticeship and job placement opportunities.

Draws for parts and special prizes are featured all day, as well as presentations and booths from Colleges, School Boards, CARS Council, www.apprenticesearch.com , apprenticeship branch, Skilled Trade Alliance, Job Connect, OYAP, Skills Canada-Ontario, and others that will assist young people in making positive apprenticeship motive power career decisions. Last year, one employer interviewing at the Employment Alley area, hired 12 apprentices right at the show! To be interviewed at this year's Career Day, young people are invited to send their resumes in advance to the online account for the show : www.carfixworld.com/en/careerdayamc/resumes_intro.asp.

Don't miss the hourly air bag detonations and the tire change competition. Schools have the chance to win a full one-year subscription to Mitchell International's frame specifications software and are all offered the educational version of Mitchell's collision estimating software.

Please register the number of students expected to attend from your school by contacting us at 1-866-309- 4272 or e-mailing info@ciia.com . As some Employment Alley interview times may be completed by region, your bus may be time scheduled.

Career Day Schedule

Motive Power Career Day is the largest motive power employment and apprenticeship opportunities show in Canada.
Don't miss out on the value to you and your students!!!

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Anti-theft device now mandatory in
Canadian-made vehicles

September 1, 2007

New cars, vans, light trucks and SUVs built in Canada must be equipped with anti-theft engine immobilizers, Transport Canada has decided.

The new regulation went into effect on Saturday.

An engine with an immobilizer won't start until it recognizes a computer chip in the ignition key.

Owners of vehicles with immobilizers can expect lower insurance premiums, but those with higher-priced models should be careful where they keep their keys after they park. Organized theft rings targeting luxury cars have been known to break into homes in search of keys to deactivate immobilizers, says Rick Dubin of the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

Auto theft costs Canadians at least $1.2 billion per year, taking into account legal and insurance costs, as well as health care for crime-related injuries, the insurance bureau says.

However, a Montreal-based auto-tracking company is questioning the effectiveness of the new regulation. 

Boomerang Tracking Inc. says a study it conducted from 2003-2007 showed 36 per cent of stolen vehicles the company recovered had Insurance Bureau of Canada-approved immobilizer devices.

Professional thieves will still be able to make off with cars by simply towing them or lifting them on to flatbed trucks, the company says.

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CARQUEST SHOP STAFF RUN FOR COVER AFTER
BULLET HITS MUFFLER

August 30, 2007

Two gunmen ran in fright yesterday after the handgun they used in Stoney Creek, Ontario robbery went off and put bullet in to a CARQUEST shop.

Police said that the pair tied up the owner and three employees of DL Garden Equipment and then hit a man over the head with a handgun.

The gun went off sending a bullet through a wall into a box of mufflers in the adjoining CARQUEST shop stockroom on Barton Street East.

The bullet missed CARQUEST employees Jimmy Williams and driver George Jones who were working in the stockroom.

Hamilton police say that the three men and one women in the garden centre were tied up shortly afar robbers entered the store, through an open rear loading door.

Investigators are still trying to sort out what happened and will be using a Vietnamese interpreter to assist them in their investigations.

Staff at the print shop in the small plaza where the businesses are located said that police "everywhere" after the alarm was raised and they thought language communications was a difficulty.

(SEE HEADLINES)

"CRUISIN BACK TO THE FIFTIES" And Become A
"REBEL WITH A CAUSE"

Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade - WICC, are asking for your help in raising funds for cancer research and awareness, a charity associated with the Canadian Cancer Society.

WICC Golden Horseshoe will be holding its first fund raising event on, Thursday, September 27, 2007.

WICC was formed in 1996 by a group of concerned insurance women and men who felt it was important to support colleagues and their families in the fight against cancer. Since its inception in 1996, the Ontario Chapter of WICC has donated $2 million to the Canadian Cancer Society for cancer research.

Event Details: Date: Thursday, September 27, 2007

Place: The 'Arnie' at Mohawk College

135 Fennell Ave. W., Hamilton

Time: Classic Car Show 5:00 pm 7:00 pm

Doors: Open at 5:30 pm

We are approaching organizations like yours for event sponsorship support. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to cancer research through the Canadian Cancer Society.

Any form of contribution in support of this worthy cause is accepted and appreciated.

Please contact either: Laurie Basiak at 905-575-6809 x127 lbasiak@pearson-dunn.com or Lori Fernandes at 905-575-6809 x195 lfernandes@pearson-dunn.com

Sponsorship Opportunities

Event Sponsor -$500 Minimum

-Advertisement in the event program

-Prominent use of company name and logo in advertising, promotional material

-Promotional items

-Food station sponsor

Sponsor - $250 Minimum

-Logo imprinted in the program

-Company signage on the Bandstand

Auction Items - Silent Auction

- Signage on auction item

Our Chosen Sponsorship Level is:

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 ~ Please List Donation:____________________________________

Sponsorship amount: $_________________________________

Donation Opportunity

Cash Donation $________________________

- Company name in the program

*Tax receipts for donations in the amount of $25 and up, will
be issued (on request only)

All donations will be recognized in the program

Sponsoring Company Information

Company Name____________________________

Address___________________________________

Telephone ( ) ______________________________

Fax ( ) _____________________________

Email______________________________________

Contact Name_______________________________

Please book by Friday September 7 th , 2007

Please make your registration, sponsorship or donation payments on line at www.wicc.ca
Tickets @ $40.00 each ~ Please order on line www.wicc.ca

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Auto Insurance Reforms In Ontario, Alberta And Atlantic
Canada Deliver $6.8 Billion In Savings

August 16, 2007

Toronto - Canada's home, car and business insurers announced today that consumers have enjoyed nearly $7 billion of auto insurance premium savings since insurance reforms were implemented in 2003 and 2004 in Ontario, Alberta, and Atlantic Canada. Today's analysis is based on the latest data available from the General Insurance Statistical Agency (GISA), a government body that collects data on premiums recorded for every private passenger vehicle in those regions of the country.

After nearly four years of declining auto insurance premiums (2003-2007) in provinces with private auto insurance delivery, Insurance Bureau of Canada believes it is important to provide both a summary and a regional breakdown of the premium savings that have been delivered to consumers.

"Reaching nearly the $7 billion mark is an unprecedented level of savings for consumers," said Stan Griffin, IBC's President and CEO.

"In every region of the country where insurers compete for the business of consumers, auto insurance reforms have delivered substantial savings for drivers. These benefits are the direct result of efforts by auto insurers and governments across the country to design and implement auto insurance reforms focused on the best interests of consumers," Griffin added.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the provincially-based reforms and the resulting savings to consumers.

Ontario

Average premiums in Ontario have decreased from approximately $1,499 per vehicle in November 2003 to $1,260 in June of 2007, a reduction of nearly 16 per cent for consumers.

Since November 2003, auto insurers have worked with the Ontario government to bring about these savings through the following key reforms.

• Getting people with whiplash related injuries into treatment faster, with fewer assessments, thus using health care resources more effectively
• Ensuring greater fairness among the fees of health care providers operating within different parts of the health care system
• Providing greater consumer protection against sometimes unscrupulous paralegal representatives
• Reinforcing that the purpose of auto insurance is to direct needed accident victims to treatment rather than cash settlements that may not be applied to rehabilitation
• Making sure that the focus of court access for further benefits is on claimants that have suffered serious and permanent injuries

"The savings we have seen in Ontario since the 2003 reforms represents the largest premium reduction ever seen in Canada," says Mark Yakabuski, Vice-President, Federal Affairs and Ontario, and incoming President, IBC.

"For Ontario drivers, it means an aggregate savings of $4.5 billion," he added.

Alberta

In Alberta, Canada's second largest private auto insurance market, reform efforts have provided savings for consumers of $1.13 billion. From the peak in 2004, when premiums were, on average, $1,182 to current average levels of $1021, prices have declined by nearly 14 per cent.

Reforms to Alberta's system included the following;

• a limit to the pain and suffering court awards ($4000) for minor injuries resulting from a collision, but more money allocated for the care required to return an accident victim to health. These reforms did not affect eligibility for health care benefits and income replacement coverage.
• Pain and suffering awards for more serious injuries remain unchanged.
• A direct-to-insurer billing system that permits injured accident victims to obtain treatment with no delays.
  

"While Albertans across the board benefited from these savings, the reforms featured a strong focus on young drivers, arguably the most notable beneficiaries of these identified savings." said Jim Rivait, VP, Prairies, Northwest Territories and Nunavut, IBC.

Atlantic Canada

Total savings available to consumers in Atlantic Canada amounted to $1.17 billion.

According to Don Forgeron, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC, these savings are a direct result of auto insurance reform efforts that focused on rising pain and suffering awards for minor injuries. Governments in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI introduced a limit of $2,500 for the compensation paid out as pain and suffering awards for minor injuries sustained in a motor vehicle collision. As was the case in Alberta, these reforms did not affect access to health care benefits or income replacement coverage available to all accident victims. Pain and suffering awards for more serious injuries were also not affected by the reform legislation.

Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, reforms saw premiums drop from an average of $1,048 in November 2003, to $800 in June 2007, an average reduction of nearly 24%, representing cumulative savings of $426.3 million for consumers.

New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, auto premiums have dropped significantly from an average high of $1,259 in 2003 to current average of $797.

This is a reduction of nearly 37% as a result of government reforms introduced in 2003 and 2006 providing savings of $493.5 million. In addition, government introduced a first-chance discount to give young drivers a break on their coverage as long as they maintain a clean driving record. New Brunswick drivers receive one of the best insurance deals in Canada: generous no-fault accident benefits coverage, access to the courts for serious injuries and low premiums.

Prince Edward Island

In Prince Edward Island, peak premiums in 2003 of $881 have since dropped as a result of government reform efforts to an average of $745, resulting in savings of $27.9 million for Island drivers or nearly 15.5% less than at the peak.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Changes in Newfoundland and Labrador have also achieved significant savings for drivers. Auto insurance premiums have declined, on average, from $1,126 in 2003 to $887 as of June 30, 2007, a reduction of 21%. Drivers have realized savings of $221.8 million in the last four years.

"With these savings of the last few years, it is evident that Atlantic Canada drivers continue to benefit from some of the lowest auto insurance premiums in Canada," said Don Forgeron.

Savings are based on the difference between the highest premium value in 2003 (or 2004 depending on when reforms were introduced) and the lowest premium value each year multiplied by the number of vehicles for the corresponding year.

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.

For more information: John Karapita (416) 362-2031 extension 4351

In Ontario, contact Mark Yakabuski, VP, Federal Affairs and Ontario, and incoming President (416) 362-2031

In Atlantic Canada, contact Don Forgeron, VP, Atlantic, (902) 429-2730

In Alberta, contact Jim Rivait, VP, Prairies, Northwest Territories and Nunavut, (780) 423-2212

In British Columbia, contact Lindsay Olson, VP, British Columbia and Yukon, (604) 684-3635

In Quebec, contact Daniel Demers, VP, Quebec, (514) 288-1563

(SEE HEADLINES)

FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS!

NASCAR HALL OF FAME AT CAREER DAY

Friday, September 28, 2007 Automechanika event expected
to attract 3000 students

With racing cars and special events, speakers and special presentations, employer interview areas and tire change competitions, the FREE Career Day at Automechanika Canada/CarFixWORLD is expected to be a major opportunity for young people and unemployed youth to learn about the benefits of a career in motive power.

Now, NASCAR's Hall of Fame Historian, Buz McKim will be a special guest speaker to students twice that morning. Author of the "NASCAR Vault" and a former racer and automotive artist, he has been involved with NASCAR most of his life. Buz has some great stories to tell and events to show. From drawing a crowd of 14,000 at NASCAR's debut race in 1948, to attracting a television audience of over 33 million at the 2004 Daytona 500- making it the world's most watched motorsports event, the NASCAR experience comes alive with Buz McKim as your guide to experience the crowds getting bigger, the cars becoming faster and the stakes growing sky-high

Canada Skills-Ontario, CARS Council, apprenticesearch.com, OYAP, apprenticeship presentations and opportunities will be featured in the September 28 th Career Day morning events. Employers are invited to conduct employment interviews at the show being held at the International Centre, Airport Road, Mississauga.

Watch out for the hourly airbag detonation demonstrations!!

Show hours :

Wednesday, September 26 th 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 27 th 12noon to 8:00 p.m.

Friday, September 28 th (Career Day) 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

FREE Parking
Students are invited to attend this event on Friday only
Please contact 1-866-309-4272 or e-mail info@ciia.com to registration

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SCHOOL WITH MOST CAREER DAY STUDENTS WINS LEXUS

Automechanika Canada also announces online
employment resume postings

Just days after announcing a special presentation at Career Day on NASCAR's Hall of Fame, Automechanika Canada and CarFixWORLD will now feature a Lexus, that will be donated to the school that highest student attendance at Career Day at the Automechanika Canada show on Friday September 28, 2007.

The car, which can be used in the school's auto lab, is being donated by Toyota Canada as a prize to encourage student participation at the Career Day portion of the three-day show.

Students and teachers are admitted FREE to Career Day. They will enjoy hundreds of demonstrations and exhibits including twenty presentations on motive power career choice. Agencies such as: CARS Council, Canada Skills-Ontario, OYAP, school boards, schools, colleges, Apprenticeship Branch, Job Connect, Skilled Trades Alliance and www.apprenticesearch.com will be there to assist and answer questions. Students have the opportunity to test their skills with the tire change competition and for the first time, participate in the NASCAR sessions offered by Buz McKim, NASCAR's Historian from the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Employer Alley allows employers to participate and interview students. We encourage students to forward their resumes to employers in advance of the show by e-mailing www.automechanikacanada.com , resume program. Last year one employer alone hired 12 students as apprentices right at the show.

Close to 3000 young people attended the Career Day portion of the show in 2006, making it the largest motive power Career Day show in Canada.

Schools can register their attendance and the number of students attending by contacting Monica at 1-866-309-4272 or e-mailing info@ciia.com .

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NATA presents FREE Career Day Forum at Automechanika Canada / CarFixWORLD

Canada’s Largest Automotive Apprenticeship & Job Fair

On Friday, September 28, 2007 the National Automotive Trades Association (NATA) will be proud to welcome thousands of young people attending Automechanika Canada / CarFixWorld Motive Power Career Day at the International Centre on Airport Road in Mississauga (10:00 am to 3:00 pm).

Focused on apprentices and senior students that are interested in motive power repair.
A jam-packed day filled with:

�� Recruitment Opportunities
�� In Person Employer Interviews
�� 6-Minute Interviews
�� Celebrities
�� Competitions
�� Workshops, Speakers
�� Overhaulin’/Demos
�� Product Demos
�� Prizes and much more!

Featuring:

�� CASTROL’s Solstice racer, as well as the builder
�� apprenticesearch.com’s race car
�� Smokin’ Joe’s Avenger Pro Modified racer
�� Pit Stop tire change competition and tire changing race
�� Dozens of exhibitors and suppliers
�� Air bag detonation demo
�� Special stage events
�� Canada Skills Ontario presentations
�� Guest speakers - how to become an apprentice in any auto repair trade

Enter to Win for yourself:
One $ 50.00 parts voucher courtesy of Standard Auto Wreckers
OR
One of two $100.00 parts vouchers courtesy of Standard Auto Wreckers

Enter to Win for your school:
A vehicle for your school’s auto lab
$ 400.00 parts voucher, courtesy of Standard Auto Wreckers
Frame dimensioning and estimating software, courtesy of Mitchell International

Here to help you: Apprenticeship Staff, College Staff, OYAP, Co-Op, Job Connect, as well as many others.

For more information on NATA’s Career Day contact 1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com
Exhibitor Information: www.automechanikaCanada.com
Want to understand apprenticeship?
Log on to www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/tcu/apprentices/aboutapprenticeship.html

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Q. What is the "Right to Repair"?

A. All new vehicles are equipped with On-board diagnostics (OBD II) - they have computerized parts. In order to diagnose problems, repair or replace those parts, specialized electronic tools and update software is needed. Independent repair shops need the right to access the tools, training and software to repair and service today's vehicles. Many of the car manufacturers do not provide this access.

Q. Who is impacted?

A. Consumers! Without access to information, independent repair garages cannot adequately service the needs of their customers. This leaves consumers without a choice.

Q. Does this impact the Environment?

A. Yes! Fewer choices means longer wait times for repairs, longer distances to access repair facilities and some repairs that are left unchecked - all of which will have an impact on emissions.

Q. Does this impact road safety?

A. Yes! And for the same reasons it impacts the environment.

Q. Do other jurisdictions have legislation?

A. Yes! In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency mandates that emissions related diagnostic and repair information be made available at a fair and reasonable cost over the public internet.

Q. Is legislation necessary?

A. Yes! For a consistent, long term, made in Canada solution, a legislative approach is a prudent option.

Q. How does the Private Members Bill address the current access issues?

A. Mr. Masse's bill makes use of existing legislative tools by proposing changes to the Competition Act and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.

Q. What are the proposed changes to the Competition Act?

A. The Competition Act is Canada's primary legislative tool to prevent unfair trading practices. Section 75 of the Act is referred to as the "refusal to deal" section, where remedies may be imposed on companies to sell a product that is required for another company to adequately conduct its business. The proposed amendment to the Competition Act is intended to provide greater clarity for Section 75 by ensuring that "information" is deemed a product.

Q. What are the proposed changes to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA)?

A. The proposed amendment would add a new section to the Act that clearly defines motor vehicles, motor vehicle owners and repair facilities. The amendment also adds a "Duty to disclose" feature that will compel the car companies to make information, tools and training available. It also ensures the information will be made available in a timely manor and at a reasonable cost.

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Top Ten Steps To A Safer And More Profitable Shop (20 pages)

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Autobody Profitability Workbook (82 pages)

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Issues Facing The Canadian Collision Repair Industry (39 pages)

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