Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 May 2001

Vol. 537 No. 3

Written Answers. - Penalty Points System.

Seán Ryan

Question:

51 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when he expects that the proposed penalty point system for driving offences will be in operation; the progress being made in regard to updating computer systems to facilitate the introduction of the points system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15969/01]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

The Road Traffic Bill, 2001, which was published on 28 March 2001, has the principal purpose of providing for the introduction of a penalty points system. I intend that this legislation will be enacted within the present year.

In addition to new legislation, a number of other initiatives must be taken to facilitate the introduction and administration of a penalty points system. Section 25 of the Road Traffic Act, 1994, which will require full driving licence holders to carry their licences while driving, will be commenced at the appropriate time.

The administration of the system will also need to be supported by the computerisation of the national driver file which is currently being completed. In parallel with the completed NDF a project team involving my Department, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Garda Síochána and the Courts Service has developed a business specification for a penalty points functionality to be added on to the NDF. Proposals for the consultancy contract for taking this work forward have been received and are currently being examined in the Department. It is intended that the necessary work for the addition of a penalty point functionality to the NDF will be completed by end 2001.

The successful operation of the penalty points system will also depend on IT improvements being developed by the Garda Síochána and Courts Service in relation to fixed charge payments and court convictions for penalty point offences.