The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Minister of Service NL:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in this Honourable House to recognize the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims.

This annual event honours the memory of those who have tragically been taken from us or injured on Canadian roads.

Mr. Speaker, I doubt there is anyone in our province who has not been touched in some way by a motor vehicle accident. Individuals and families have had their lives forever changed because of incidents on our highways.

We are constantly improving the Highway Traffic Act to ensure that roadways are safe for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. In fact, just last week in this House, we proposed changes to the Act to allow for highway cameras to be used as a means of increasing compliance with the rules of the road.

We will remain vigilant in our efforts, Mr. Speaker. Together, with law enforcement agencies and all stakeholders, we will continue to bring the importance of road safety to the forefront.

Every time we consider making changes to strengthen the Highway Traffic Act, Mr. Speaker, I am reminded of the people I have met and their stories of pain and loss. I invite all members of this Honourable House to join me tomorrow, as I stand with family and friends in honour of road crash victims.

Thank you.