The RM of Cartier's fire chief feels not enough is being done to protect the driving public and volunteer emergency services members. Dan Bouchard appeared before council this week, discussing the fire hall's work over the past year, as well as some concerns. Reeve Dale Fossay says Bouchard mentioned a few close-calls on the highway during the closures.

"When they're responding to accidents along the Trans-Canada highway, when the visibility has been reduced because of fog or blowing snow, there have been a few incidents where there has been near contact with the fire department truck or volunteers by passing traffic."

Fossay explains the fire chief feels while the highway closures are put in place to protect motorists, they're often implemented far too late.

"The term used was the highway closures were reactive rather than proactive. Usually it's an accident or incident, we believe, that initiates the closing of the highway. I guess the conversation is around if they should be more proactive in closing it, so people aren't out there getting in trouble. We just want to pursue that a little bit more, either through correspondence or an in-person meeting."

He notes the closure of the highways can be a contentious issues, with those voicing their opinion on both sides of the matter.

"I presume amongst the public there's mixed feelings. Some would say it should be closed earlier, and I'm sure there are some that say they can get through on their own."

Fossay says council doesn't have an opinion on the current situation, but says it's vital that their volunteer firefighters remain safe.