A recession plan or a re-election plan?

My office has been receiving complaints from the public in regard to the Motor Vehicle Inspection program. Two years ago, the Conservative government made changes to the way motor vehicle inspections were done. Tougher rules were intended to improve road safety.
From the public's point of view, changes have not been working, and there has been no proof that our vehicles or roads are any safer.
However, the new rules appear to be creating added costs and frustration. As a result, motorists and businesses are losing faith in the system. It's time for Service Nova Scotia to review the MVI program in its entirety.
Despite this system being in place for two years, a review has been needed almost from the start. The previous Minister of Service Nova Scotia, Jamie Muir, requested a complete review in November 2008, after NDP transportation critic Vicki Conrad wrote to him. Despite this commitment, work has yet to begin on this review.
In the minister's reply, dated December 30, then Minister Muir wrote, "this review will look at the issue of the inspections themselves, as well as what vehicles should be inspected. Staff are currently developing a project plan ..."
For motorists confused by inspection results, and mechanics unsure how to properly complete inspections, this review is not being completed in a timely fashion.
It is important that the review include public consultation. The people being affected must have an opportunity to tell their stories and offer solutions to this problem. The review should also examine three key aspects of the new MVI program, including whether Nova Scotians are better served returning to the system that existed prior to February 2007; whether Nova Scotia should move away from the yearly inspection of automobiles under a certain age; or whether it should maintain the status quo.
The most important thing is the review be taken seriously and completed as soon as possible. One of my constituents has offered to take part in the review, and I'm sure there are many more people willing to make submissions during the review process. We will, unfortunately, have to wait to see if the Conservative government will include public input in their pending review.
For information, call my constituency office 464-3805 or stop by for a visit at 63 Tacoma Drive, Suite 303, in Dartmouth.