Cheers &Jeers
CHEERS: THANK YOU
Another year is drawing to a close.
At the Tri-County Vanguard and Saltwire, we want to thank our readers for your ongoing support of local journalism.
We know the size of this newspaper isn't what it used to be. Sadly that's what happens when there are fewer subscribers and less advertisers, which amounts to less revenue. But in our newsroom, we have not sacrificed quality over quantity.
Even with our own fewer resources, we work hard to bring you stories that we hope will inform you and will interest you. And we will continue to do that in 2024.
There won't be a printed issue of the Vanguard next week. We're taking a break for the Christmas holidays. Our website Saltwire.com, of course, is always available.
We'll see you again in print on Jan. 3.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our newsroom.
JEERS: IMPAIRED DRIVING
The Nova Scotia RCMP recently released the monthly provincial impaired statistics for October-November 2023.
Given all of the attention and awareness brought to the issue, not to mention sobering statistics on injuries and fatalities – or the risk of both – it's discouraging to know that people still drink and drive.
During October and November, Nova Scotia RCMP charged 254 drivers with impaired-related offences relating to both alcohol and drugs.
Broken down the numbers were:
• 131 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Alcohol
• 12 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Drug
• 24 charged with Refusal of a Demand Made by a Peace Officer
• 87 issued driving suspensions for Operating a Conveyance While Having Consumed Alcohol
The fact is while these drivers were charged, many more weren't caught, putting themselves and others at risk.
“Impaired driving investigations can be complex, especially when they involve both alcohol and drugs. This is why Nova Scotia RCMP officers receive a variety of training, and have several tools at their disposal,” the RCMP says.
In Nova Scotia, there are approximately 419 RCMP members with training related to drugimpaired driving. The RCMP also have 427 trained breath technicians who are qualified to operate instruments that determine a driver's blood alcohol concentration.
But we also all have the tool of common sense. We know it's wrong to drive while impaired.
There are many other options to get to where you need to – a taxi, a friend or family member, transit if it's an option, or even walking.
If you are impaired, do not include driving on that list.
Editor's Note
Tina Comeau was on vacation while this issue of the Tri-County Vanguard was being compiled. Her column returns in the new year.