Vol. 494 No. 4
331 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if it is his intention to provide that the penalty points system to be introduced for drivers will include provision for penalty points to be deducted from car drivers who use their mobile phones while driving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18271/98]
The Government Strategy for Road Safety, 1998-2002, indicates that, in common with a majority of EU member states, it is not proposed at this stage to regulate in Ireland for a specific prohibition on the use of mobile phones by drivers. The safe use of mobile phones by drivers will be however promoted through information campaigns and sponsorship will be sought from the mobile phone industry for this purpose. Work towards developing a penalty points system is proceeding in accordance with the commitment in the Government strategy. This system, when finalised and incorporated in legislation, will be open to modification and adaptation in light of subsequent circumstances.
