Opposition to present petition calling for action to protect against moose vehicle collisions

Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones today accepted a petition from the Save Our People Action Committee (SOPAC) that will be presented to the legislature when the House of Assembly opens later this month. The petition contains approximately 20,000 signatures from people throughout Newfoundland and Labrador looking for action to protect against an increasing number of moose vehicle collisions.

“I want to recognize the hard work and efforts of SOPAC, and Committee Chair Eugene Nippard, in organizing this petition to bring further attention to the growing concern of moose vehicle collisions on the province’s highways,” said Ms. Jones. “Through debate and discussion, I am hopeful that government will recognize that this is an increasing problem that must be addressed.”

Jones is encouraging government to look at all available options to determine what potential courses of action can be taken in this province to reflect our unique situation, challenges and geography in tackling this safety issue. It is estimated that over 120,000 moose now live in the province and over 700 moose vehicle accidents occur on the province’s highways every year.

“There has been a significant discussion taking place as to potential solutions to address this growing moose concern. Some people have suggested highway fencing, increased lighting and more hunting permits as options to explore. There may be no single answer to protecting against moose vehicle collisions, but we must move forward with a detailed and serious evaluation of our best options available. Other jurisdictions have implemented their own reviews and we should learn from their experiences. While our circumstances and challenges may be unique, we must be diligent in ensuring that we provide the safest highways possible for the traveling public. Unfortunately, government has yet to show their commitment to addressing this problem and I hope the magnitude of this petition will finally show the minister that action is needed.”