Premier Doug Ford's government admits there is a problem with new licence plates it started issuing to drivers just weeks ago, and says it's working with the manufacturer to address complaints that the models are hard to see at night.
Consumer Services Minister Lisa Thompson said Wednesday the government has asked 3M Canada to investigate numerous reports that started to surface over the weekend saying the plates are nearly unreadable in the dark.
A spokeswoman for the premier's office confirmed that because of social media reports from law enforcement officers and concerned citizens, it now believes there is a problem with the new plates.
The Progressive Conservatives revealed the new plates in the 2019 budget.
The new plates, which have a blue background and white lettering, were designed and manufactured by 3M Canada.
They were first made available at the beginning of this month and the province previously said that they featured “high definition sheeting that is stronger and longer lasting” than the old plates.
In a statement, 3M Canada said, “We stand behind our products and are actively providing solutions to the Ontario Government to address the readability issue as quickly as possible.”
Thompson had previously defended the plates, saying they had passed rigorous testing.
A number of groups have begun to express concern about the impact the problem could have on public safety.
The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police has said it has been hearing from front-line officers and concerned citizens about the possible defect.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving Canada said it has also asked the government to look into the reported issues.
