Following up on the story in the April issue of The Canadian Vindicator on the Government of Ireland's move to forbid the use of hand-held cellphones by people when driving automobiles, Newfoundland bids to become the first province in Canada to take similar action.

Introducing legislation in the House of Assembly in St. John's, Government Services Minister Walter Noel said: "We are convinced cellphone use by drivers constitutes a serious diversion which must be discouraged."

"While all Canadian provinces are considering similar legislation, we are the first province to propose action."

The minister cited a public opinion poll that suggested some 39% of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador believe the use of hands-free units was acceptable for drivers.

"We are limiting this change to hand-held cellphones at this time because it appears to be a more serious problem for which prohibition has broader public support, " he added.

Health groups, including the Canadian Medical Association, have called on all provinces to introduce a ban on the use of cellphones by drivers. However, the Canada Safety Council has said there isn't enough proof to blame the devices for making roadways more dangerous.

Legislation on the subject has also been introduced in New York State and in 30 countries worldwide.

The proposed ban in Newfoundland and Labrador will only apply to drivers of vehicles. Passengers may still use hand-held cellphones.