The President's Perspective

Good legislation addresses clearly identified problems, is based on scientific evidence and - very importantly - can be enforced.

Laws, regulations and enforcement are critical to prevent deaths and injuries. The Hazardous Products Act, labor legislation, laws against impaired driving, mandatory seat-belt use and many other regulations have played a major role in improving safety.

Perhaps because of the success of these laws, more and stricter rules and restrictions are demanded in the name of safety. Ban cell phones. Lower the BAC in the Criminal Code. Require muzzles for all dogs.

It is true that cell phones can be a dangerous distraction, too many people are killed by impaired drivers, and dog bites cause serious injuries. However, recent demands for legislation seem to be a knee-jerk reaction with little analysis of the problem in its overall context, and little real research. Strict enforcement of existing laws is not considered. Calling for new regulations has become a panacea.

Canadians concerned about safety must look at alternatives to making more laws. Enforce existing laws. Invest in training and public education to achieve voluntary compliance. If a small core of chronic offenders is causing most of the harm, target that group with specific countermeasures.

Poorly conceived rules, restrictions and regulations may penalize the sensible majority without reducing deaths and injuries.

Good laws are driven by objectivity, hard facts and realism — not emotion or political expediency. Questionable, unenforceable legislation will not effectively address safety concerns.

Emile-J. Therien
President

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