Wednesday, November 19, 2008

National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims

No. H 228/08
For release - November 19, 2008

CANADA’S TRANSPORT MINISTER HONOURS THE MEMORY OF CANADA’S ROAD CRASH VICTIMS

OTTAWA — November 19, 2008

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to extend my sympathies to all Canadians who have lost loved ones in road collisions. On this first National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims, we reflect on the lives lost and renew our resolve to improve the safety of Canadian roads.

On average, eight Canadians are killed in road collisions every day. Many more are impacted — family members, friends and other loved ones are left grieving.

We all have a part to play in keeping our roads safe. That is why our government took action and toughened the laws meant to deter impaired driving, while giving police better tools to keep offenders in jail. This is just a start.

Most of the deaths caused by road collisions are preventable and avoidable. Whether it is observing speed limits, wearing a seat belt or abstaining from driving while impaired or fatigued, let’s work together to prevent these tragedies. Let that be the legacy of the victims we remember today.

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Contact:

Chris Day
Press Secretary
Office of Transport Minister John Baird, Ottawa
613-991-0700

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