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Eddie Joyce, MHA for the District of Bay of Islands, is concerned that the
Department of Transportation and Works has implemented a new policy for its
snow clearing vehicles across the province this year. Snow clearing vehicles
which use their wing blade and spread salt and sand at the same time are now
only carrying a small portion of this salt and sand. Also, due to financial
restraints, plow operators have been directed not to complete a second run
to either spread salt and sand once they run out or clean up excess snow.
"The new policy of the Department of Transportation and Works is very
dangerous," said Mr. Joyce. "Residents and drivers can have the road salted
and sanded or they can have snow on the side of the road fully cleared, they
can’t have both. The directive has been issued from the department that no
second runs will take place, a policy that could have severe consequences.
"During and after major snowstorms, such as the one experienced last
night, driving becomes very dangerous. This new policy will see higher
snowbanks on the side of the road and less clear pavement for motorists. The
lack of road salt and sand will also make conditions much more slippery.
Children who walk to school or wait for school buses will be forced to walk
on the street during high traffic periods.
"In the Bay of Islands, there are many narrow roads and the snow must be
cleared back to provide enough space for two cars to pass each other safely.
This new policy is an accident waiting to happen. If government wants to
keep this policy, they should ensure two trucks are available, one to
administer salt and sand and another to use the wing blade to fully clear
the snow off the roads. I fear that inaction will result in further
tragedies on the roads and highways of our province this winter season." |