Motor Vehicle Safety

 

Tuesday, May 29, 2001

 

Mr. Bill Blaikie (Winnipeg—Transcona, NDP): Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Justice in her capacity as the minister in charge of dangerous driving legislation, et cetera.

The minister will be aware of the controversy surrounding the use of cellphones while driving. The Canadian Medical Association Journal had an editorial on it today. Could the minister tell us whether she would be willing to convene a meeting of her provincial counterparts to discuss the merits of various ways of regulating the use of cellphones while driving?

Hon. Anne McLellan (Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): Mr. Speaker, obviously the hon. member raises an issue of some growing concern for many Canadians. I would certainly be happy to have a discussion with my provincial and territorial counterparts in relation to this issue.

Since the hon. member is a member of the justice and human rights committee, he might want to suggest the committee take up the subject. If he has recommendations I would be happy to consider them.