By Julie Waters
THE first steps are being taken towards the introduction of ‘Jaidyn’s Law’ a proposed change in legislation that would make drug testing mandatory following serious road traffic collisions.
The campaign follows the death of 16 year-old Jaidyn Rice who was a pedestrian when she was knocked down on the outskirts of Bangor in July last year.
North Down MLA Stephen Dunne, together with North Antrim Assemblyman Paul Frew, chair of Stormont’s Justice Committee, have tabled an amendment to the upcoming Justice Bill, which could bring about a change to the current legislation.
Their efforts have been supported by Jaidyn’s mother, Elaine Clarke, and grandmother, Judith Millar, who have met a number of families who have suffered similar losses and highlighted the need for change.
The campaigners are now calling for Stormont to consider making drug testing automatic in collisions involving death or life-changing injuries, and would be called ‘Jaidyn’s Law’ in memory of the much-loved teenager.
Said Mr Dunne: “Jaidyn was an advocate for truth, fairness, justice and community, with a passion for supporting and caring for others.
“In her memory, Jaidyn’s Law seeks to ensure that in the most serious road traffic incidents, no family is ever left questioning the effectiveness of the law surrounding road traffic accidents,” he added. “Her legacy is a call for clarity, consistency and protection for every family across Northern Ireland.
“I would like to commend the family of Jaidyn who continue to lead a dignified campaign for justice and safer roads across Northern Ireland, after she lost her life so cruelly last year.
“I have been supporting the family in campaigning for Jaidyn’s Law and I have organised and attended meetings alongside them, with the Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and Justice Minister Naomi Long, together with senior PSNI officers, and I thank all those who took the time to meet with us.
“We have also met with Paul Frew MLA who was extremely helpful in exploring avenues as to how we could change the law and we have been able to table a number of amendments to the Justice Bill in the hope that the Assembly will approve Jaidyn‘s Law.”
Mr Frew said: “I was glad that I could meet with the family of Jaidyn at Stephen’s request and explore how we could make a difference in this awful scenario. My heart goes out to all those impacted by traffic accidents.
“The impact of drug misuse in many of these scenarios cannot be overlooked and I believe that drug testing needs to be a more common and routine practice in order to prevent the tragic loss of life on our roads. I really hope these amendments make the marshalled list and the Assembly approves and passes this into legislation.”
