Róisín Shortall
Question:208 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the proposed timescale for the introduction of additional offences under the penalty points scheme. [27002/02]
Written Answers. - Traffic Regulations.
The penalty points system was introduced in respect of speeding offences with effect from 31 October 2002. The extension of the operation of the penalty points system to all of the offences listed in the first schedule of the Road Traffic Act, 2002 will be pursued with a view to applying the penalty points system fully by the end of 2003.
Róisín Shortall
Question:209 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce credit card size driving licences; and the proposed timescale. [27003/02]
I propose to introduce a plastic card licence that will comply with the EU model specified in Council Directive 96/47/EC amending Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences. I am anxious that the card licence be in place as early as possible. My Department is considering the detail of the proposed card, including the security features, together with the scope of the changes to be made to the system of issuing driving licences, with a view to preparing the necessary tender documents. I will be making regulations in due course for the introduction of the card licence following consultation with the EU Commission. It is my intention to issue a credit card sized plastic card as an interim measure pending full implementation of a smart card system.