Local Government Minister Desmond Mckenzie says steps are being taken to reduce motorcycle fatalities in the western end of the island.

His comment follows Tuesday’s (July 12), collision which left two motorcyclists dead in Westmoreland.

Their deaths pushed the overall number of motorcycle deaths in the parish since the start of the year to 66.

Speaking at a townhall meeting in Westmoreland yesterday (July 14), Mr. Mckenzie said accidents are a major concern.

He said with Westmoreland being one of the parishes with a high number of motor cycle accidents, plans are being made with different agencies such as the Road Safety Council, to sensitize bikers on safety guidelines.

The minister reiterated that the issue does not only affect loved ones of the victims but also the health care system and the country’s economy.