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Contact: John
Emmanuel
Wednesday, April 07, 2004 – An increasing number of fatalities coupled
with a sharp increase in the number of cases of disabilities due to vehicular
accidents, have prompted health officials to categorised road traffic injuries
as a major public health problem facing the country. That disclosure came
Wednesday, April 7th from Health and Human Services Minister Honourable Damian
Greaves as St. Lucia joins the rest of the international community in marking
World Health Day.
The combination of increasing traffic intensity and indiscriminate road usage,
Mr. Greaves says has contributed to the problem and has given rise to an upsurge
in road accidents over the years. In 2003 the island recorded 22 fatal accidents
which resulted in 27 deaths. Already for 2004, 12 road fatalities have been
recorded thus far. St. Lucia is increasingly feeling the socio-economic brunt of
road accidents says Minister Greaves.
“An increase in accidents means a higher level of absenteeism and overall
decrease in productivity,” he told the nation in a televised addressed. The
National Insurance Corporation (NIC), he indicates “has to pay a significant
amount of money in workers compensation that could have otherwise been put to
more productive use.” The Minister, who also holds the portfolio for Family
Affairs and Gender Relations, says in addition, road injuries such as broken
limbs and paraplegia reduce the families’ potential to earn income and
profoundly affect the bread winners’ self-esteem. The psychological impact of
road accidents, he points out is profound, when it comes to public confidence on
St. Lucian roads. “Accidents breed discontent and fear, thus it is imperative
that people feel confident in using our roads,” laments Mr. Greaves.
He says his Ministry believes firmly in prevention as the primary strategy in
addressing road safety. A significant part of that approach will require
reducing the risk factors that contribute to accidents. In that regard, Mr.
Greaves has called for greater attention to be paid to the use of seat belts,
child car seats, motorcycle helmets, designated drivers, limiting alcohol
consumption, and increased caution regarding pedestrians and cyclists.
In the end, Minister Greaves points out, strengthening of road safety awareness
will require a multi-sectoral approach, involving the Road Transport Board, the
private sector, NGOs, community groups, and the Ministry of Health. The theme
for this year’s observance is “Road Safety is no Accident”.
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