Seanad debates

Wednesday, 14 May 2003

The programme introduced by the Minister is not just about penalty points or penalising drivers, it is about changing an attitude of careless disregard by certain drivers, both for other road users and for the privilege of holding a driving licence. Fines have not worked in the past, but the fact that people can now lose their driving licences through the penalty points system has helped to focus their attention on showing due care on the roads. This change in culture among drivers will be further enhanced by the expansion of the programme the Minister intends to introduce. From 1 June, uninsured drivers will attract a high number of penalty points. When that aspect is taken in conjunction with driving dangerous vehicles and a failure to use seat belts, drivers could find themselves being put off the road after just two offences. That is the way to indicate that driving in a manner that puts lives at risk will no longer be tolerated.

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