GRAVENHURST - Ernie Eves, Ontario's Premier, today promised that his government would introduce legislation to help protect Ontarians' safety and called on the federal government to introduce tougher penalties for those who drink and boat.

"Operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol -- whether on land or on water -- is dangerous and illegal," said Eves. "It's time for the federal government to protect Ontarians and bring penalties for drinking and boating in line with those for drinking and driving. Our government is prepared to act now to protect the safety of Ontarians."

Although the regulation of waterways and vessels is a federal responsibility, the Eves government would like to see penalties for drinking and boating made as tough as Ontario's proposed penalties for drinking and driving. In the absence of federal leadership on this issue, the Eves government will introduce legislation that would, if passed, suspend the drivers' licences of those convicted of operating a boat while impaired.

"People who operate any vehicle while impaired put lives at risk," said Eves. "Our government will do everything possible to ensure that those who drink and boat face the same severe consequences as those who drink and drive."

"Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) supports the Ontario government's tough stand on drinking and boating," said Andrew Murie, MADD Canada's National Executive Director. "If you drink, don't boat. Together, we can make Ontario's roads and waterways the safest in the world."

Mixing alcohol and boating is more hazardous than many people realize. According to national statistics, approximately 40 per cent of all power boating fatality victims have a blood alcohol level that is over the legal limit. Last year in Ontario, there were 35 fatal boating accidents in which 43 people were killed.

The Eves government has taken a hard line on drinking and boating. The OPP uses 124 marine vessels to patrol the province's waterways and enforce the law. Since 1998, the OPP has increased its maritime patrol hours by nearly 60 per cent. Last year alone, 1,229 charges were laid related to alcohol and boating.

"People should be able to travel our lakes and rivers without worrying about those who would endanger their lives by drinking and boating. Current drinking and boating penalties must be stiffened," said Eves. "In the meantime, officers will be on the water this weekend to keep our waterways safe, protect our citizens and catch those who break the law."

Contact:

Premier's Media Office
416-325-7600