Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to leave a message for the government on two telephone issues. First and most pressing is the obvious need for introduction of 911 emergency telephone service beginning in our major communities. The Minister’s position on this can only be described as stubborn and illogical. The arguments for realizing the clear advantages of 911 service are overwhelming.
A well researched and documented feasibility study shows the service can be cost effectively introduced on a phased-in basis. Today’s media reports confirm that NorthwesTel, after 10 years of study and investment, is technically able and eager to introduce 911 in any or all communities.
Even when this government finally sets out to introduce 911 service, its installation will have to be phased in over several years. The basic reasoning that no communities can have 911 until all communities can have 911 simply doesn’t make sense. Would the Minister say that no community may have a paid fire department unless all communities have paid fire departments? Does he believe that small community residents are so mean spirited that they would deny this service improvement to larger communities? Where and when we can, we must take steps to protect the lives and property of our citizens and do what we can and strive to do even better always.
Mr. Speaker, I ask the Minister to reverse his unacceptable position and introduce his plan for phased introduction of 911 emergency service on the basis of the feasibility study’s sensible recommendations.
Secondly, I want to put my support on record with other Members for the introduction of a ban on cell phone use while driving. My colleagues have eloquently put forward the wealth of information proving this hazard and information on the example of bans put in place or planned by other jurisdictions. One constituent who called me said that while walking around the airport loop and narrowly being missed by several vehicles, she started keeping tally. She saw 32 drivers…
Thank you, Mr. Bromley. I am going to stop you there. Your Member’s statement is supposed to be on one topic. So we will stop you there. Thank you, Mr. Bromley. The honourable Member for Frame Lake, Ms. Bisaro.
