Truck Sideguards: Olivia Speaks Out in Parliament
Ms. Olivia Chow (Trinity—Spadina, NDP): Mr. Speaker, every year, Canadian cyclists and pedestrians die needlessly when they are sucked under the back wheels of large trucks. Twenty-five years ago in Europe, truck side guards were made mandatory. As a result, cyclists’ deaths in Britain were cut by 61%. Having side guards may have saved the life of Jenna Morrison.
What will it take for the minister to act to protect Canadians and make truck side guards mandatory?
Hon. Steven Fletcher (Minister of State (Transport), CPC): Mr. Speaker, our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have been involved in this type of tragic bicycle or pedestrian incidents. The case last week that the NDP member raised is very tragic. We take all these types of safety matters seriously. We are looking to research to see what can be done in this area.
Having said that, if the provinces feel that side guards are necessary, they are capable of mandating them themselves. I look forward to working with the member and any other member who has an interest in this topic.
Do your part! Contact Transportation Minister Denis Lebel and urge him to act now!
Phone: 613-996-6236 Email: denis.lebel@parl.gc.ca
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