Darien Fenton MP
Spokesperson on Transport Safety
Associate Spokesperson on Labour

3 December 2009
Media Statement

Minister’s explanation for rising road toll pathetic

Labour’s Transport Safety spokesperson, Darien Fenton says that Transport Minister Steven Joyce’s explanation for the rising road toll as reported on Radio NZ this morning is pathetic.

“New Zealand’s road safety record has gone backwards this year. Our road toll has already exceeded the numbers killed in road accidents by this time in 2008, with the holiday period still ahead of us,” Darien Fenton said.

“But all Steven Joyce can say is that the road toll is higher in 2009 because there was a lower level of travel in 2008 when petrol prices were higher.

“I find that an extraordinary comment, particularly because New Zealand has been the throes of a deep recession this year, with wage cuts and lay-offs, so it’s unlikely any family or individual would be making unnecessary road journeys.

“Every one of the deaths on our roads has a massive impact on families and loved ones. It’s the Minister’s responsibility to come up with solutions, not excuses.

“I hope we see some sensible and innovative suggestions coming from the Minister as to how New Zealand can tackle our rising road toll in the 2020 Transport Safety strategy, which is due to go to cabinet in the New Year,” said Darien Fenton

ENDS

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