Debates of May 15, 2007 (day 7)

Mr. Speaker…(English not provided)

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Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that the Department of Transportation is issuing revised versions of three NWT driver manuals and is introducing the new Motorcycle Handbook.

The previous versions were close to 20 years old and out of date. The revised manuals are now consistent with other territorial and provincial jurisdictions and contain the latest driver information and techniques to ensure that drivers are able to safely operate all types of road vehicles in the NWT.

The four manuals provided by the Department of Transportation to NWT residents include:

The Basic Driver’s Handbook, which provides information to all drivers.

The Professional Driver’s Handbook, which provides additional information about driving commercial vehicles. It is used with the Basic Driver’s Handbook when learning to drive a truck, tractor-trailer, ambulance, taxi or bus.

The Air Brake Manual, which provides information on the air break system and the components that make up the system.

The Motorcycle Handbook, which provides additional information on the safe operation of motorcycles, mopeds or power bikes. It is used with the Basic Driver’s Handbook.

The four handbooks cover all classes of licences available in the Northwest Territories. They provide important information to help residents to obtain an NWT driver’s licence and become safe and competent drivers.

Paper copies of the manuals are distributed across the Northwest Territories for a fee from our driver and vehicle licensing issuing offices. Digital copies are available for viewing and downloading at no extra charge on the Department of Transportation’s website.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Transportation would like to express its appreciation to Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation and Kingland Freightliner of Hay River for their contribution to the development of these manuals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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