A Canada Day reminder not to drink and drive
For many of us, the best season is summer. School lets out, Canada Day unites our country from coast-to-coast-to-coast, and the nicer weather brings vacations and more joy to our lives. But as we celebrate with family and friends at BBQs, festivals and dining out on patios, we should never forget our responsibility to never drink and drive.
According to a CTV article on March 18 of this year, “…357 drivers have been charged with impaired driving as of March 12. That’s up from 319 at the same time last year.” As reported in City News, the Ottawa Police Service, in mid-May of this year, 16 people were charged with impaired driving-related offences.
Earlier this year, three young children were killed when an allegedly impaired driver collided with their vehicle. Their lives were stolen in an instant. No words can capture the weight of that loss.
The OPP laid over 11,500 impaired driving charges last year – over 2 years there has been a 35% increase. These are not just statistics – they are shattered lives, grieving parents, and empty classrooms.
Drinking and driving is a scourge on society; yet the number is increasing. The loss of innocent lives plagues families and communities to no end.
Despite the increase in incidents, the Ford Government’s official policy is to offer reduced penalties and a waiver of a criminal record for those caught drinking and driving – all in the name of speed. How will people learn if there are not tough consequences?
A few weeks ago, I made a statement in the Legislature about the scourge of drinking and driving and the need for new ideas to curb it.
I have begun working with legislative counsel at Queen’s Park to introduce new legislation in the fall sitting of the Legislature. I’ve met with MADD and other stakeholders both here in Ottawa and in Toronto and will be continuing that outreach to get as many ideas as possible over the summer.
Drinking and driving is never acceptable. Today, one can have alcohol delivered to their homes. You can likely walk to a store. If you are out, public transit, taxi, Uber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing options are available. There are no more excuses to be made. All of us know full well the dangers of drinking and driving.
We need a culture where getting behind the wheel impaired isn’t just illegal — it’s unthinkable. Because, what if it was your loved one struck down?
CANADA DAY AT THE LEGION – Canadian Legion Branch 632 on Taylor Creek Road will be hosting a fun-filled day of family-friendly activities with music and food starting at 11 am. FREE FOR EVERYONE 
ORLEANS FARMERS MARKET every Thursday from 11 am to 4 pm in the parking lot at the Ray Friel Recreation Centre on Tenth Line Road. Shop the freshest seasonal produce, meat and dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, crafts and more while getting to know the folks who grew and made it.
CUMBERLAND FARMERS MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with 85 local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds! FREE ADMISSION 
STRAY DOG BREWING COMPANY presents Crroked Creek live and in concert in their taproom. From Montreal, Crooked Creek effortlessly blends bluegrass and country music genres. Tickets $15 available at 
