NEW LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE TO LOOK AT WAYS TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC SAFETY, REDUCE FATALITIES

The Legislative Assembly today passed a motion creating a new legislative committee on traffic safety made up of both government and opposition MLAs.

Members of the new committee are government MLAs Darryl Hickie, Herb Cox, Roger Parent, Warren Steinley and Nadine Wilson and opposition MLAs Danielle Chartier and Doyle Vermette.

The committee is expected to hold meetings throughout the province over the next few months, consulting with interested individuals and organizations.  It will consider and report on ways to improve traffic safety and reduce the number of accidents, injuries and fatalities caused by factors like impaired driving, distracted driving, excessive speed, wildlife and intersections.

In 2012, there were 175 traffic fatalities in the province, making it the deadliest year in recent years on Saskatchewan highways. 

“Everyone in Saskatchewan would like to see fewer accidents, injuries and deaths on Saskatchewan highways, so it makes sense that this is an area where members on both sides of the Assembly can work together toward a common goal of improving traffic safety,” Hickie said.  “As a former police officer, I know how many tragedies could be prevented by simply avoiding dangerous practices like drunk driving, distracted driving and speeding.”

The committee is to complete its final report by August 30, 2013.

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For more information, contact:

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8927