Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am sure that the department does not need any clarification as to whether that road is unsafe. We probably more than anyone else, recognize the condition of the road. However, we do not come to the conclusion that the road is unsafe, otherwise we would close it. It is as simple as that.
We believe the road is safe if you drive as to the conditions of that highway. We posted speed signs that reduced the speed limits and we were encouraged that this is in fact what is happening. The speeds have been reduced and that is encouraging to us. We do not want, any more than anyone else, unsafe conditions on that highway.
Those unsafe conditions, from the department's point of view, are largely related to weather conditions rather than to our ability to maintain it. We, more than anyone else, would probably like to increase the reconstruction phase, advance that, and have that highway reconstructed in half the time to address the concerns expressed by the public. However, like I said, the dollars are what is controlling everything right now, and we just do not have them. So we are doing the best we can with what we have. Thank you.