The Department of Transportation and Public Works today officially signed an agreement with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada to bring the White Cross memorial marker program to Prince Edward Island.
The White Cross memorial marker program is an initiative to increase awareness about the dangers of impaired driving through the installation of white wooden crosses along the roadside at various points where motorists have lost their life to an accident involving an impaired driver.
“We’re pleased to be able to work with MADD Canada to help remind all Islanders about the dangers of impaired driving,” said Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea. “Even one death from impaired driving is too many. If adopting a program like this can help prevent a serious or fatal accident from impaired driving then it will have more than served its purpose.”
Under the agreement to implement the White Cross program, MADD Canada will work in consultation with the Department of Transportation and Public Works to identify safe, appropriate locations to erect the white cross memorials. Once locations are approved the white crosses will be installed for an appropriate period of time.
“We commend the PEI Government for providing this program to residents impacted by the crime of impaired driving,” says Karen Dunham, MADD Canada's National President.”The memorial white crosses serve as a symbol of tribute and respect for impaired driving victims and the crosses are a significant way for victims' families and friends to honour and remember those loved ones they have lost.”
Upon signing the agreement with MADD Canada, Prince Edward Island becomes only the second Canadian jurisdiction to sign onto the White Cross memorial marker program.