Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador
 
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News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

   

 

Accident in McIvers demonstrates need for road repairs

August 31, 2006

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."

 

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477