Tony Ryall - National Law and Order Spokesman

7 April 2004

More information, not less, makes roads safer

More road information, not less, will make our roads safer, says National MP Tony Ryall.

"Instead of the Government taking down every speed camera sign, they should be replacing them - giving the public more information about crash black spots and dangerous intersections," he says.

He is commenting on an announcement today that the Government is removing all speed camera signs this weekend as part of its new 'anywhere, anytime' programme.

"How will overseas visitors know that speed cameras operate here if there are no road signs to tell them?

"Other jurisdictions that operate 'anywhere, anytime' camera programmes advise motorists that such cameras are in operation.

"If visitors don't know, how can the cameras have any effect?

"What drivers want is more information, to see a strong police presence on our highways, and have positive dealings with police officers.

"Last year the police issued more tickets than ever before, yet the road toll increased for the first time in years.

"Today's announcement is the kind of initiative that is making New Zealanders increasingly suspicious of the use of speed cameras.

"The cameras should target areas with a crash history, not those area's that collect the most revenue," says Mr Ryall.

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