In over 600 high schools across Canada, including the NWT, students are actively engaged in spreading a message that calls for a healthy and responsible outlook towards this serious social issue. Regrettably, impaired driving continues to be a serious and chronic problem in the Northwest Territories and in other parts of Canada. Despite years of intensive public education, more severe penalties and increased law enforcement, the offence of impaired driving remains the most common crime in the country.

This behaviour continues to cause an inexcusable amount of human suffering and costs individuals and societies a staggering amount of money. On average, 21 people are killed, and hundreds more are injured, every week in this country due to the senseless and thoughtless actions of impaired drivers.

Yes, Mr. Speaker, progress has been made in recent years to reduce the incidence of impaired driving in Canada. However, there is still a long road ahead before the day arrives when this problem can be eliminated.

This government acted on its responsibility to contribute to a solution for this problem when it implemented amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act last year. These amendments have greatly increased penalties for offenders and introduced other measures that address this important issue. In August of this year, as part of its broad strategy to reduce impaired driving, the Department of Transportation brought in a Graduated Drivers Licensing Program that gives new drivers more time to gain the skills, knowledge and experience needed to safely take their place on our streets and highways.

It’s encouraging to see that many young people have embraced the view that drinking and driving is not acceptable, and are actively involved in promoting that view to their peers and others.

These young people are taking part in activities that are organized each year at this time to observe this special day. This highly commendable event serves to focus attention, especially among teens and young drivers, on the serious consequences of getting behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol.

Mr. Speaker, here in Yellowknife, members of the St. Patrick’s High School chapter of Students Against Drunk Driving organized a number of special events to mark this day. This SADD chapter, which has now been operating for over 10 years, has been a strong voice for responsible behaviour, and for measures to step up the fight against impaired driving.

I know Members of this House will join me in applauding the attitude and actions of these young adults. They have made a real difference already and will continue to do so. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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