Minister Abbott Meets with SOPAC and Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to Road Safety

Original Release: https://www.gov.nl.ca/releases/2023/ti/1107n03/

Transportation and Infrastructure

November 7, 2023

The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, met yesterday with representatives of the Save Our People Action Committee (SOPAC) to discuss the Provincial Government’s efforts regarding road safety in the province, particularly as it relates to moose-vehicle collision prevention. Minister Abbott was joined in the meeting by Lucy Stoyles, MHA for Mount Pearl North. The Provincial Government remains committed to investing in initiatives aimed at helping to minimize moose-vehicle collisions in Newfoundland and Labrador. This includes providing annual support of $30,000 to SOPAC for its Moose Sightings Hotline and public awareness campaigns. Additional measures include an annual investment of approximately $2.5 million for brush cutting efforts along provincial roadways, as well as signage. Building upon previous moose fencing pilots throughout the province, the Provincial Government also committed to continuing to explore moose fencing as a possible measure to help improve safety on provincial highways. A vegetation suppression program is also being explored, which will help slow growth in areas where brush clearing has occurred. Quotes “The safety of the motoring public on provincial highways is a top priority for our government, including mitigating moose-vehicle collisions. I was delighted to meet with SOPAC officials to discuss our ongoing relationship, and to discuss initiatives to help reduce moose-vehicle incidents, as well as how we can continue to build upon this relationship. We are continuing to explore additional brush clearing efforts, vegetation suppression and other sections of highway for potential moose fencing.” Honourable John G. Abbott Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure “We were pleased to meet with Minister Abbott about our shared priority of road safety and our work to help reduce moose-vehicle accidents. We know that our collective efforts can make a difference, even if it’s one accident that we help prevent. We look forward to our continued collaboration on this important topic that affects all residents of the province.” Linda Bishop Chairperson, SOPAC