What follows is the text from John Weston’s remarks in the House of Commons concerning the tragic accident north of Whistler, June 7th. Also included is a letter sent to Pique Cycling in regards to this, and what MP Weston is doing to represent Cyclists and the need for safety.
Arne Elias, Chair of the federal non-profit Canada Bikes, will be moderating a meeting with John Weston, Senator Nancy Greene Raine and other concerned cyclist on June 20th, 9:30 AM, Black Tusk Room, Brennan Park Recreation Centre in Squamish.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the tragic death of two cyclists and another person in my riding last week.
On June 7th, Ross Chafe and Kelly Blunden were cycling north of Whistler, when they were struck and killed by a driver who was reportedly impaired. They were both fathers and key figures in the community. Also killed was the passenger in the car, Paul Maurice Pierre Jr, a member of the Lil’wat Nation.
The driver had three previous convictions for impaired driving. He was prohibited from being behind the wheel.
Our grief can compel us to action. We need good safety protocols for cycling; and to incarcerate impaired drivers.
My hope is that initiatives like the Attorney-General’s new proposed law, the Cycling Town Hall I convened in Ottawa on May 25, and the forum on cycling safety that I’ve organized for June 20th in Squamish will create positive change. For the sake of Ross and Kelly, and those who loved them, grief can compel us to take action. For them, and for all who bike, may we bring about enhanced rules and policies, for both drivers and cyclists.
Please rise with me in a united spirit of condolence for those who grieve the loss of Ross, Kelly, and Paul.
– John Weston, House of Commons