Police were yesterday urged to do more for road safety.

Road safety watchdog W.A. (Toppy) Cowen called for more Policemen on the streets.

"We don't see enough Police presence on our roads,'' the Road Safety Council deputy chairman said.

Transport Minister Wayne Furbert said later: "I think there could be a greater Police presence.'' He added, however, he understood Police commissioner Colin Coxall faced constant demands on Police manpower.

"He has a lot on his plate at the moment.'' Mr. Cowen, also managing director of Pink Beach Cottage Colony, and Mr.

Furbert were at a Cabinet Office Press conference yesterday on National Road Safety Week.

Mr. Furbert said he was happy to support the Road Safety Week activities.

"The issue of road safety is a very important concern to our community.'' Mr. Furbert said Government was preparing a Green Paper -- a discussion document -- on road safety and transport improvement which would take a long-term look at the subject.

He hoped the Green Paper would be before the House of Assembly no later than the end of May.

"Meanwhile, our goals in the short term are to promote road safety through specialised campaigns such as our road user diversity, designated driver and child safety campaigns.'' Mr. Furbert said the National Road Safety Week provided an opportunity for Bermuda residents to focus on improving driving skills.

"There will be a host of activities planned for the week. We encourage the community to take part in all of them.'' Road Safety Officer Delcina Bean-Burrows outlined the Road Safety Week activities.

The week will be officially opened on Sunday with a service at Hamilton Cathedral, starting at 11 a.m..

The week will also feature: a presentation of certificates to teachers qualified to teach Project Ride in public and private schools (April 7); a Cabinet Office presentation of safe and courteous driving awards to public service vehicle drivers with clean driving records for five, ten, 15, 20, 25 and 30 year periods (April 8); and a National Go Slow Day, in which motorists are urged to stick to the 20 mph limit and run their headlights during the day. A "Road User'' procession will leave TCD grounds at noon and go through Hamilton (April 9).

Other events include a 9.15 a.m.-3 p.m. road forum at the City Hall foyer, with safety lectures and videos on defensive driving. Mr. Furbert and the Mayor of Hamilton William Boyle will open the forum (April 10 and 11).

April 12 -- Road Safety Youth Day -- will feature a host of fun activities for youngsters aged five to 11 at Belly Busters. There will also be a road safety gear display, a clown and face painting from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In the evening a free concert will be staged at St. John's Pembroke Sunday School, featuring Buccaneer from Kingston, Jamaica, and local entertainers T.I. and Omega. It will run from 6.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.

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