Islanders are advised to make transportation plans in advance before partaking in holiday festivities involving alcohol or cannabis. Cpl. Gavin Moore, the P.E.I. RCMP’s media relations officer, highlighted the heightened risk of impaired driving during the festive season due to numerous gatherings and celebrations. Moore emphasized that the primary focus is on ensuring safety rather than solely apprehending impaired drivers. The RCMP has increased its presence, implemented more traffic stops and checkpoints to enforce laws against impaired driving, and deter individuals from making the dangerous choice to drive while impaired.
Approximately one-third of the RCMP’s impaired driving arrests result from reports provided by the public. Moore urged Islanders to treat impaired driving as an emergency situation and to promptly report any signs of it, such as swerving, speed control issues, or lane deviation by calling 911. Planning ahead and arranging for a sober driver to provide transportation after celebrations is strongly recommended by Moore to prevent impaired driving incidents.
In Tignish, residents have access to a well-known option for safe transportation after New Year’s Eve parties. Hal Perry, the Liberal MLA for Tignish-Palmer Road and Official Opposition leader in the P.E.I. Legislature, has been offering rides to individuals following the December 31 festivities for the past 15 years. Perry initiated this tradition to set a positive example for his children, promoting responsible decision-making around drinking and driving. He also highlighted the service’s importance in rural areas lacking public transit or taxi services.
Perry expressed his enjoyment in providing these rides, considering it one of his most fulfilling responsibilities throughout the year. Beyond New Year’s Eve, he extends his taxi services to various local events and weddings across Prince County, emphasizing the collective effort needed to enhance road safety.
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