Service NL
December 7, 2016

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Eddie Joyce, Minister of Service NL:

Minister Recognizes National Safe Driving Week

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in this Honourable House to recognize December 1 to 7 as National Safe Driving Week. This year’s theme - Icy and Dicey: Avoid Unnecessary Risks - is especially appropriate as we head into the winter driving season.

Mr. Speaker, in recent weeks, I have been honoured to recognize the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Project Red Ribbon Campaign.

Today I continue this safety theme by asking all motorists to learn how they can adopt safer, more defensive driving habits to reduce the risks associated with winter driving. This includes ensuring our vehicles are equipped with good winter tires and that they are well-maintained to operate properly in Newfoundland and Labrador’s challenging weather conditions. Residents should also adjust driving habits to allow for increased stopping distances and yield the right-of-way to snowplows, so they can do their job effectively. Just as importantly, I encourage all residents to always wear a seatbelt.

Mr. Speaker, National Safe Driving Week allows me an opportunity to renew our government’s commitments to eliminate distractions behind the wheel and to speak out against driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue.

As we move into the new year, I urge all Honourable members to join me in promoting road safety awareness in our province and in reminding all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians of the shared responsibility for keeping our roads safe this winter.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2016 12 07                              2:25 p.m.