Mr. Speaker, today, October 21, is National Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day, NSAIDD. It is also the tenth anniversary of this national day that focuses attention, especially among teens and young drivers, on the serious consequences of driving while impaired or distracted. More than 500,000 students across Canada, including the Northwest Territories, are actively engaged in reducing impaired and distracted driving on this day of awareness. It’s encouraging to see that many young people are advocating safe and healthy lifestyle choices and responsible decision-making.
Regrettably, impaired driving continues to be a serious problem in the Northwest Territories and in other parts of Canada. Despite years of intensive public education, more severe penalties and increased law enforcement, impaired driving continues to take the lives of Northerners. In the Northwest Territories seven people lost their lives due to collisions involving alcohol over the past five years. Another 86 people were injured. These collisions could have been prevented.
With the increasing use of technology such as cellular phones and text messaging, driver distraction is now an integral component of public information and messaging campaigns of this national driving awareness day. It is also a focus of our own Drive Alive! program, and for good reason. With the difficulties related to regulating and enforcing distracted driving, public information and awareness will be a key to reducing distracted driving. Some studies have shown that use of cellphones while driving slows reaction times to an extent similar to being intoxicated. I am very encouraged that messages regarding the effects of distracted driving have been included in this national day of awareness, especially in light of the positive role that public awareness has played in reducing impaired driving.
Yes, great progress has been made to reduce the incidence of impaired driving in Canada. In the past 20 years, as a result of the work of groups such as NSAIDD, MADD and SADD, there has been a steady decline in the number of collisions and injuries involving alcohol. I want to acknowledge the great work these groups have been doing in fighting impaired driving in the Northwest Territories.
I know Members of this House will join me in applauding the attitude and actions of these young adults who are promoting safer driving choices and participating in the National Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day across Canada. They have made a real difference and will continue to do so. I encourage all Members to join the voices of our young people and spread the importance of making responsible choices when it comes to driving.
First, speak up. Say no to getting into a vehicle with a driver who is impaired. Speak up when others in your vehicle are distracting the driver or when the driver is fatigued or driving recklessly. Then speak out. Take a stand against the great harm that impaired and distracted driving does in our territory and in your community.
Thank you, Mr. McLeod. The honourable Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Miltenberger.
