The day after the Ford government proposed new rules to get tough with car thieves in Ontario, it’s also going after those convicted of driving under the influence.

 

 

Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria announced he’ll introduce legislation Thursday that would see those convicted of impaired driving would have to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle and would not be allowed behind the wheel again if they kill someone while impaired.

Ontario has an ignition interlock program but Sarkaria says it currently does not apply to first offences nor is it mandatory.

The proposed measures would also require convicted impaired drivers to undergo mandatory remedial education and treatment.

”One-in-three fatalities on the road are or can be related to impaired or drug impaired driving. Just last year, we’ve seen a 30% increase in instances involving impaired. So we need to get the message out there that we are serious about combating impaired driving,” added Sarkaria.

”Anybody … who makes a very stupid decision to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, impaired or drunk faces the toughest penalties in the country.”