The Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) director, Michael Schumacher, has praised the drivers' representative body, which was re-formed in the wake of Imola 1994, when Roland Ratzenberger and Ayrton Senna were killed, and several other drivers involved in freak accidents, in one of motor sport's darkest weekends.

In a statement, Schumacher says: "In my view the GPDA is essential as the drivers' views on safety contribute to the FIA's research into accidents

"This leads to improvements both on tracks for racing drivers in all categories and for the general public on the road.

"I'm glad that drivers are able to work so effectively together both within the GPDA and with the FIA," he added. "Our work is evident at various circuits around the world and I'm confident our input has helped prevent serious injury and save lives."

What's odd is that in recent times the GPDA has been conspicuous by its (apparent) absence.

Granted, there was a competition organised on behalf of the GPDA at the 2004 Australian Grand Prix, whereby "six lucky fans" got a tour of the paddock on race day, and photo opportunities with several F1 drivers, including the GPDA's directors: Michael Schumacher, local hero Mark Webber, David Coulthard and Jarno Trulli.

But is this what the GPDA was really re-formed for, a promotional tool?

A couple of months later Mark Webber revealed that the GPDA was to meet more often, while Jarno Trulli called for a discussion on blue flags and the behaviour of back-markers.

Where was the GPDA at Indianapolis, when Ralf Schumacher was stranded, injured, in the middle of the track, in an incident witnessed by millions of viewers around the world.

Where has the GPDA been during numerous incidents afterwards referred to by race stewards as "racing incidents"?

Why isn't the GPDA, which is supposed to represent all Formula One drivers, consulted on a whole raft of issues most importantly the rule changes, in addition to such issues as testing and control tyres?

In Melbourne, Mark Webber said; "One of the GPDA's aims for 2004 is to improve the interaction between the fans and the drivers." Great stuff Mark, however, if the GPDA is honest about its commitment to "the fans", why isn't it getting more involved in issues such as the qualifying format and indeed track layouts, why isn't it consulting "the fans"?

Despite Michael Schumacher's praise for the GPDA, we beg to differ, it has failed to stand up and be counted, and in many ways has become much like many (but not all) of the individual drivers, afraid to speak out for fear of angering the powers that be; Bernie, the team bosses and the sponsors that ultimately pay the bills.

When we see the GPDA stand up and firmly make a stand, then we'll believe in it, until then it's just a dog with no teeth.