Toronto Mayor Criticizes Ford Cabinet for Disliking Speed Cameras
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has criticized Premier Doug Ford’s cabinet following revelations that vehicles assigned to cabinet ministers received numerous speed camera violations. Over the past three years, these vehicles accumulated 23 tickets, totaling more than $3,300 in fines.
Cabinet Ministers’ Speed Violations
Documents indicate that cabinet ministers’ vehicles were involved in various speeding incidents. Notably, one vehicle was recorded driving over 150 km/h, triggering alerts for stunt driving. Chow pointed out these violations as a possible reason for the premier’s opposition to speed cameras.
- 23 speed camera tickets in the last three years.
- Total fines exceeded $3,300.
- One minister’s vehicle was recorded at 162 km/h.
Chow’s Response and Advocacy
Chow, along with over 20 other Ontario mayors, is advocating against the Ford government’s plan to abolish speed cameras. She highlighted the troubling fact that provincial ministers’ vehicles had been repeatedly violating traffic laws.
“I notice one thing,” Chow stated, “that provincial ministers’ vehicles have been caught in over 20 violations, leading to fines exceeding $3,000.” She emphasized the need for speed cameras, especially in areas plagued by accidents, such as Parkside Drive, which has a history of serious traffic incidents.
Ford’s Legislation and Alternative Views
Premier Ford plans to introduce legislation to ban speed cameras, labeling them a “tax grab” that fails to reduce speeding effectively. He argues that physical measures, such as speed bumps and roundabouts, are more successful in enforcing speed limits.
Impact of Speed Cameras
Contrary to the premier’s stance, a study from SickKids Hospital showed that speed cameras could reduce vehicle speeds by up to 45%. Multiple stakeholders, including mayors and law enforcement, have urged Ford to maintain the automated speed enforcement program.
- Parkside Drive speed camera has generated around $7 million in fines.
- Several fatalities and injuries reported in the area over the past decade.
- Chow underscores the importance of speed cameras to enhance road safety.
The ongoing debate over speed cameras in Toronto highlights a clash between local governance and provincial policy. As stakeholders continue to advocate for public safety, the future of traffic enforcement remains uncertain.
