Start with effective measures. Then debate measures that have a marginal impact, at best.

Éduc’alcool submitted a brief to the Quebec National Assembly’s Committee on Transportation and the Environment, in which it presented its position on amendments to the Highway Safety Code.

In light of scientific research and for all the reasons contained in it, Éduc’alcool recommended that the Committee begin by taking action that would most effectively combat the problem of drunk driving, as follows:

Whereas the certainty of sanctions and the objective probability of arrest are the most effective in influencing the people who are most likely to drive with a high blood alcohol content; therefore, the first and most important measures would be to increase the number of road blocks, simplify police procedure and enforce the law to the fullest extent, particularly at the times and in the locations most at risk.

Whereas many impaired drivers frequent bars and public establishments where alcohol is served; therefore, the Service in Action course should be made mandatory for all owners of licensed establishments and their serving staff, to make sure that they are fully aware of their social, cultural and legal obligations.

Whereas the problem of drunk driving cannot be isolated from the larger issue of society’s relationship to alcohol, and whereas the results obtained to date speak eloquently; therefore, we must continue to promote responsible drinking and accountability among the largest possible majority of the population, regardless of whether or not people drive.

Only after all these measures have been taken, i.e. after the government has implemented the most effective means to improve the situation, will it be time to consider the possibility of changing the Highway Safety Code to lower the legal blood alcohol limit for driving. The effect of such an amendment could be analysed in terms of the situation at that time.

(French only)