Thompson becomes the third Manitoba community to launch the highly effective Report Impaired Drivers program.
Report Impaired Drivers will be administered by Thompson RCMP, in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance, the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission, and MADD Canada.
Residents of Thompson and area are encouraged to call 677-6911 if they suspect a vehicle is being operated by an impaired driver. Thompson now joins Brandon and Portage to have this grass-roots program.
“Through RID 911, the public can play a key role in helping to avert the tragic consequences of drunk driving,” said Assistant Commissioner Bill Robinson, Commanding Officer of RCMP “D” Division. “It is alarming that one in three fatalities on the roadways is alcohol-related. With this program, the public can help to prevent senseless tragedies.”
Report Impaired Driver 911 is an initiative of MADD Canada, which has been promoting the campaign throughout the country. The concept is to involve the public in reporting any suspected impaired drivers to police by calling 911.
“Report Impaired Drivers is truly a partnership between police and the public,” Attorney General Andrew Swan, minister responsible for Manitoba Public Insurance, announced today. “This program allows members of the public to do their part in identifying suspected impaired drivers. Manitoba will continue to be proactive in reducing alcohol-related deaths and injuries on our roadways.”
More than 70 communities throughout Canada have taken up some form of the campaign. Brandon was Manitoba’s first community to implement the program.
Manitoba Public Insurance will be working with the Thompson community to provide support and awareness.
“Reducing the number of alcohol-related deaths on our roadways is a priority of our corporation,” says Marilyn McLaren, CEO/President of Manitoba Public Insurance. “Our corporation is continuously exploring initiatives which will achieve this goal. This project matches up well with our mandate.”
The province of Manitoba has been recognized by MADD Canada for its proactive approach in reducing alcohol-related vehicle deaths and injuries. Impaired driving is a serious problem and the number one criminal cause of death in Canada.
