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NLIS 3
June 4, 2001
(Government Services and Lands)


Minister seeks public input into cell phone and driving policy

Walter Noel, Minister of Government Services and Lands, wants to know how citizens in our province feel about the use of cell phones in vehicles.

Mr. Noel said: "I have asked officials to complete their current study of legislation and/or practices throughout the country and to report, with recommendations, by mid-July. I also want to know how Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feel about this matter and I encourage people to make their views known.

"There appears to be more and more concern expressed about cell phone use while driving, and many organizations and groups are convinced this practice is a serious distraction.

"A cell phone in a vehicle may be a distinct advantage in the case of an emergency, but I am concerned about the use of the phone while driving.

"Until we have clear assessment and direction, the Department of Government Services and Lands encourages all motorists to use their cell phones when parked, or if absolutely necessary, to pull to the side of the road, and park, to dial or answer their phones."

This matter will be discussed later this month by the Standing Committee on Road Safety Research and Policies during a meeting of the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA). The CCMTA has members from all Canadian governments as well as associate members from transportation related organizations.

Citizens may contact the minister in writing or by e-mail at the following addresses:

CELL PHONES AND DRIVING
Office of the Minister
Department of Government Services and Lands
Second Floor, West Block
Confederation Building
St. John's, Newfoundland
A1B 4J6
cellphones@gov.nf.ca

Contact: Rick Callahan, Communications, (709) 729-4860.

2001 06 07                                                   11:30 a.m.


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