Taking Action to Reduce Impaired Driving in Oxford

WOODSTOCK — The Ontario government is investing $105,161 through the Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) grant program to help police forces in Oxford keep impaired drivers off streets and highways.

“Oxford has among the safest roads in Ontario and we are committed to making them even safer,” said Ernie Hardeman, MPP for Oxford. “Driving impaired, whether from drugs or alcohol is illegal. Making alternate plans to get home safely only takes minutes, and it can save your life and the lives of others.”

RIDE grant funding will help carry out important year-round road safety initiatives such as education campaigns and roadside spot checks over 2020-21 and 2021-22. The funds will be granted over two years to Woodstock Police Service and OPP Oxford for programs in Blandford-Blenheim, Norwich Township, East Zorra Tavistock Township, Ingersoll and Tillsonburg.

As Ontarians prepare to celebrate the holiday season, they are reminded to make plans to get home safely. They can arrange for a designated driver, order a taxi or rideshare, or take public transit. They should also take immediate action if they see someone who may be impaired by arranging a ride for them or even calling 911 if someone is a risk to themselves and others.

“With the holiday season upon us, education campaigns and roadside spot checks are vital tools in the police arsenal to inform people about the dangers of driving impaired and the ways to keep our roads and highways safe,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones.

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Media inquiries, contact:

MPP Ernie Hardeman

519-537-5222