Debates of March 10, 2009 (day 26)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes, that Bill 14, An Act to Amend the Motor Vehicles Act, be read for the second time.

Mr. Speaker, this bill amends the Motor Vehicles Act. A new short-term permit is created and an application for a driver’s licence may now be made based on a licence that has been expired for up to two years. Nurses are required to report medically unfit drivers in the same manner as is required of a medical practitioner. A person is prohibited from operating a vehicle with obscure or damaged lights or reflective devices and drivers are required to reduce their speed when close to emergency vehicles with flashing lights. The registrar’s duties are clarified with respect to sharing disclosure use and protection of records and personal information. Access to accident reports are enhanced for persons involved in accidents and drivers and employers are held liable for intervention in operation of commercial vehicles. The authority for a demerit point system is expanded as is the Commissioner’s authority to enact regulations for repair, maintenance and inspection of vehicles. Reference to jurisdiction is given greater precision and other minor improvements are made throughout the act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Bill 14, An Act to Amend the Motor Vehicles Act, has had second reading and will be referred to a standing committee.

---Carried

Item 20, consideration in Committee of the Whole of bills and other matters: Tabled Document 7-16(3), Ministerial Benefits Policy; Bill 5, Professional Corporations Act; Bill 9, Northern Employees Benefits Services Pension Plan Protection Act; Tabled Document 25-16(3), Supplementary Appropriation No. 1 (Infrastructure Expenditures) 2009-2010, with Mr. Bromley in the chair.