Gov't purchases 2,000 helmets for distribution to motorcyclists

By Prince Moore    

 

The government has purchased 2,000 helmets for distribution to motorcyclists.

 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness said this is in response to the number of fatal crashes involving motorcyclists who fail to wear helmets.  

 

Mr. Holness said the helmets were purchased from the Live Good budget, and that another 9,000 helmets will be procured for distribution to motorcyclists to ensure their safety.

 

"Some of that is going to be paid for by the increases that we have seen based upon the revenues that have come in from the enforcement of the fines and fees. So we are using the increase in revenues from enforcement to put it back into your safety. So it's not just to punish you and take money from you. We are investing it back into your own safety," the Prime Minister reasoned. 

 

He said the government has started to distribute the 2,000 helmets across the island. 

 

"One method of giving out these helmets is that as you come to renew your registration, or you are registering anew, we will provide you with a helmet," he disclosed. 

 

Mr. Holness was speaking Thursday at the St. Ann's Bay Transport Centre in St. Ann.