St. John’s, NL (September 13, 2024) – Lin Paddock, Progressive Conservative MHA for Baie Verte-Green Bay, calls for urgent action to address increasing road safety concerns in rural Newfoundland and Labrador, due to overgrown brush along the province's highways.

"In some cases, the overgrown brush extends beyond guardrails and obscures critical road signs, making it difficult for motorists to spot large animals, such as moose, especially at night," Paddock said. "This is a widespread issue. Highways across my District are severely overgrown and suffering from inadequate brush maintenance. In a number of communities, this overgrowth is also endangering students and pedestrians. This serious safety issue affects every district in rural Newfoundland and Labrador and must be addressed immediately."

Paddock underscored the dangers posed by obstructed highway signs, asking, "What's the point of highway signage if it's hidden behind overgrown brush?"

He called for a regular and proactive roadside brush-cutting maintenance plan to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents, especially involving wildlife. Paddock stressed that implementing a proper brush-cutting plan could prevent accidents and save lives.

"Addressing critical safety needs, especially in areas where overgrown brush affects student safety as they wait for buses or walk to school, must be a top priority now," he added.

"With four transportation ministers in four years, the Furey Liberal Government has failed those who rely on our highways for work, business, school, and medical appointments. A proper brush-cutting maintenance plan is crucial for ensuring safe roadways, so it's time for this government to prioritize the safety of rural Newfoundland and Labrador by addressing critical safety issues and by keeping road sightlines clear of hazards."

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