No. H 140/09
For release - October 10, 2009
OTTAWA — The Government of Canada took action today to improve the testing of child car seats and ensure children have the best protection possible in vehicles.
Canada's Transport Minister John Baird introduced new amendments that, once passed, will make Canada's testing standards of child seats unprecedented and world-leading.
"By introducing more rigorous testing, our government is taking action to ensure child car seats provide unequivocal protection to children," said Baird. "By introducing these new testing standards, as well as passing strict street racing laws and introducing legislation to crack down on drug-impaired driving, our government remains steadfast in protecting the lives of Canadians on our roads."
The proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Restraint Systems and Booster Cushions Safety Regulations include a new testing procedure requiring child seats to be tested with a three-point lap/shoulder belt. Canada is leading the world with this amendment.
The amendments will also ensure that testing reflects modern realities, uses state-of-the-art equipment and leads to a safer environment for children in the event of a collision.
The proposed regulations were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, today. A 45–day comment period follows, during which interested parties may provide their views to Transport Canada. After consideration of all comments received, Transport Canada will make any necessary changes before pursuing final approval and publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II, at which time the regulations will come into force.
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