Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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236. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the average financial penalty imposed through the court system on persons found guilty of driving without a motor insurance policy in place and that being the first offence committed; his plans to further strengthen legislation in this area for the future to deter persons from driving uninsured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26294/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in exercising its functions, which include the provision of information on the courts system.

However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has provided a Report on the average fine imposed by the courts for driving without motor insurance. This is not confined to those who committed their first offence. Court statistics are not compiled in such a way as to provide information on fines issued to first offenders only.

As road traffic legislation is the responsibility of my colleague, Shane Ross, T.D., Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, the question of any amendments of the legislation is a matter for consideration by him.