asked the Minister for the Environment the steps he proposes to take to deal with the problem of uninsured drivers.
32.
Written Answers. - Motor Insurance.
30.
asked the Minister for the Environment if he has any plans to introduce new legislation in regard to motor insurance in this country.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 32 together. In so far as my area of responsibility is concerned, I have already taken steps to deal with the problem of uninsured drivers. Under the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act, 1984, the maximum fine for the uninsured use of a motor vehicle was increased from £100 to £1,000. The mandatory period of disqualification for a second or subsequent offence of uninsured driving within any period of three years was increased from six months to one year. The sentence of six months imprisonment may be imposed instead of or in addition to a fine.
In December 1984 I made the Road Traffic (Insurance Disc) Regulations, 1984, which provide that motor vehicles being used in public places must display windscreen insurance discs with effect from 1 July 1986. The discs are being issued by motor insurers with all new motor policies and all renewals of existing policies and all insured drivers should have received the discs by 1 July next. At present, my Department are engaged in a review of road traffic legislation, including that on compulsory motor insurance. I hope to be in a position to introduce a Road Traffic Bill next year. It would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment in this matter at this stage.