Minister Noel releases committee report on measures to combat impaired driving

Walter Noel, Minister of Government Services and Lands, today released the report of a special committee established to examine measures designed to combat impaired driving. 

Mr. Noel said he will review the report and decide what action should be taken.

The committee recommends a number of initiatives to combat impaired driving including increased driver licence suspension periods, vehicle seizure and impoundment, and enhanced alcohol education programs. It also recommends a 10-year suspension for convictions of impaired driving causing bodily harm, and a lifetime suspension for conviction of impaired driving causing death.

The report recommended against the introduction of an ignition interlock system at this time. The committee cited concerns about cost and practicality. It said the province's size and small population make it difficult to introduce a uniform system which will serve all parts of the province in a cost-efficient and effective manner.

"Despite the committee's reservations, I have directed officials to conduct further study to determine ways which could make this program acceptable for our province," said Minister Noel. "Our objective is to reduce the carnage and cost of impaired driving. The committee has made strong recommendations for increased penalties and other initiatives which I expect to be implemented."

Members of the committee included representatives from various departments and agencies, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, the Crown Prosecutor's Office, the Safety Council and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

The committee's report is available on government's Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/gsl/consultation/

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

2001 11 08                          11:20 a.m.