Class action lawyer says police stats show moose collisions up in N.L.

<p>ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – A lawyer representing a class action lawsuit against the Newfoundland and Labrador government has released updated statistics he says are from the RCMP and Royal Newfoundland Constabulary on moose-vehicle collisions.</p> <p>The statistics, given to lawyer Ches Crosbie through an Access to Information request, indicate an increase in the number of collisions in territory covered by the RCMP – 702 collisions last year while there were 658 in 2009.</p> <p>Crosbie says when you combine statistics for both police forces there were 783 collisions involving moose in 2010.</p> <p>However, the Mounties say the numbers have to be scrutinized more closely before anyone reaches conclusions.</p> <p>RCMP Sgt. Boyd Merrill says not all of the incidents were caused by moose, while in some the animals did not come into contact with a vehicle.</p> <p>The class action suit is seeking a reduction in the moose population and compensation for those injured or killed in moose accidents.</p> <p>(VOCM)</p>