Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am very reluctant to get into any more trouble with the Judiciary than I am already in another sphere by commenting on the Deputy's last remark. There is a need for more consistency in sentencing, especially in the area of traffic offences, and I suspect that some of the penalties are too light in certain areas. In view of the road deaths, I would like to see a more consistent form of penalty being imposed. The Deputy is probably aware that the upcoming bail Bill will contain a clause that people will, in certain circumstances and at the discretion of the court, be forced to hand up their licences when they have been charged with serious offences. This is quite new and is a measure of which I and my Department would fully approve.

I thank the Deputy for his contribution to this debate, it has been very helpful and genuine. I hope to be able to respond and take more concrete measures if necessary to reduce road deaths.

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