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Eddie Joyce, Opposition Transportation and Works Critic and MHA for the
District of Bay of Islands, says an accident that took place this morning on
a poor section of road in McIvers proves the need for government to fix this
problem immediately. "I have been raising concerns regarding this very
poor section of highway in McIvers since last year," said Mr. Joyce. "I have
warned the minister that this was an accident waiting to happen, and this
morning everyone was lucky that a tragedy did not take place. A truck
carrying a load of wood supplies hit this section of road and shifted the
materials. Luckily the driver managed to avoid hitting other vehicles and
going into the ditch, and the load of supplies did not fall off the truck.
However, two forklifts were called in and delays took place as the truck
could not be moved until its load was stabilized.
"I am hoping that this morning’s incident will be a wake-up call to this
government and the minister. School begins next week and busses will be
traveling over this very dangerous section of highway. It’s not too late to
address this problem and commence repairs, I just hope something will be
done before a more serious accident takes place.
"It is also my understanding that the minister is in the Corner Brook
area today. I encourage him to take this opportunity to visit McIvers and
see firsthand the terrible condition of this road. The communities in the
Bay of Islands and myself have made representation to the Department of
Transportation and Works regarding these safety concerns. We are still
awaiting a response from the minister. Government is well aware of the
safety issues that exist in the Bay of Islands, and it is incumbent upon the
minister to ensure funding is granted for this project before it is too
late."
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