Ignition Interlock Program Moves A Step Closer To Implementation

Amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act will give officials the authority to use the Ignition Interlock Program in the fight against drunk driving and related injuries and deaths on Nova Scotia roads.

The Department of Transportation and Public Works introduced proposed changes to the act, today, Oct. 30, to allow for a reduction in the mandatory period that a licence can be revoked if a person conforms to the requirements of the Ignition Interlock Program.

An ignition interlock is a small, hand-held breath-testing device fitted to a vehicle's ignition. A driver must blow into the device and if alcohol is detected and is higher than a pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start.

The current legislation prevents a person from driving while suspended with an impaired driving conviction. The amendments will bring Nova Scotia legislation in line with the Criminal Code of Canada, which allows for a similar exception.

"Making Nova Scotia roads among the safest in the country is one of the key goals of the department," said Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Transportation and Public Works "While giving offenders an incentive to participate in the program, we are also giving them access to counselling and support services, and educating them about the consequences of their behaviour. This change in behaviour is the key to the success of any drunk driving intervention."

The proposed changes to the act will also enable the registrar of motor vehicles to make the program available to both first-time and repeat offenders. Other drivers may also be referred to the program at the discretion of the registrar.