City looking to increase use of GPS technology in City vehicles
October 19, 2012 at 3:49 PM
The City of Winnipeg is looking to install more Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in its fleet of City vehicles. It is our understanding that they will be used as a tool to improve efficiencies, safety and reduce vehicle operation costs. The City has already installed GPS devices in several of its vehicles in the Public Works Department.
"When GPS technology was first used in the Public Works Department, we had concerns that it may be used as a disciplinary tool," said Local 500 President, Mike Davidson. "Although the employer has a legal right to use these devices, we're still concerned about the possible misuse of the information that these systems can supply. So far, we haven't heard of any problems from the members who currently use City vehicles that are tracked."
The cost estimate to purchase the new tracking systems or who will supply them is unknown at this time.
"These systems are not cheap and if this is about tracking our members, rather than gaining efficiencies, then the City should rethink this expenditure and put the money towards our infrastructure or public service enhancements," said Davidson.
The Local will continue to monitor this issue and report back to the membership as more information becomes available.
