Report Impaired Drivers 911, a new initiative to remove impaired drivers, launches in Portage and area.
A new initiative to remove impaired drivers from Portage and area roadways will soon be launched. Report Impaired Drivers 911 will be administered by the Portage RCMP, in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance, the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission, and MADD Canada.
Residents of Portage and area are encouraged to call 911 if they suspect a vehicle is being operated by an impaired driver. Portage is Manitoba’s second community to implement RID 911, which was launched in Brandon last spring.
“Through RID 911, citizens can play an active role in helping to avert the heartache and tragedy caused by impaired driving,” said Assistant Commissioner Bill Robinson, Commanding Officer of RCMP “D” Division. “The RCMP continues to work with its valued partners to increase road safety through strategic enforcement and awareness initiatives aimed at changing high risk driving behaviour.”
RID 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.
More than 70 communities throughout Canada have taken up some form of the campaign. Brandon took the opportunity to be the first in Manitoba.
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.
“RID 911 is a grassroots program which allows members of the public to do their part in identifying suspected impaired drivers,” Attorney General Andrew Swan, minister responsible for Manitoba Public Insurance, announced today.
“Manitoba will continue to be proactive in reducing alcohol-related deaths and injuries on our roadways.”
Manitoba Public Insurance will be working with the Portage 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.”
