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P.A. Sask Party MLA reflects on 2018

Dec 27, 2018 | 11:00 AM

The work to keep drunk drivers off the road was one of this year’s big highlights for the Saskatchewan legislature for Prince Albert – Carlton member.

Joe Hargrave said the overall number of deaths caused by drunk drivers was down, which he attributed to the help of many groups.

“A 40 per cent decline and I think that’s good work from the police, good work from SGI in their awareness campaign, and good work on behalf of the people of Saskatchewan who are taking notice of it,” he said.

As of September, there is now zero tolerance for drug impairment for all drivers and includes a penalty of immediate license suspension (up to five years if convicted) and the vehicle can be seized for up to 60 days. There are also longer vehicle seizures for impaired drivers with passengers under the age of 16. Experienced drivers who are impaired and transporting passengers under 16 will face longer roadside license suspensions. Hargrave said he was a bit concerned what impact the legalization of recreational marijuana would have.

“Hopefully that doesn’t negatively impact what we have been doing on the impaired driving file,” he said.

Hargrave said the province’s new ride sharing legislation will also help keep drunk drivers of the road. The legislation was passed by the provincial government earlier this month, and it is up to the municipalities to draft its own rules and regulations. Several Prince Albert city councillors are expected to discuss the file in the new year.

Another highlight for Hargrave in 2018 was the introduction of mandatory training for commercial truck drivers. Starting in March, drivers seeking a Class 1 commercial license will be required to undergo at least 121.5 hours of training.

“There’s more work to be done on the farm piece. We know that, but right now it’s good,” Hargrave said.

Looking ahead to 2019, Hargrave said he would like to see some sort of announcement regarding Victoria Hospital. For years there’s been discussion around a new hospital and Hargrave who campaigned on the issue, said his position has not changed.

“I’m a strong believer in it and our premier has indicated he’s in favour of it and I would really like to see an announcement far sooner than later, that’s for sure,” he said.

 

nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell