Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 January 2019
122. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the policy input he and his officials had on the latest proposal from the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in relation to increasing penalty points further for speeding and to remove the discretion of drivers bringing their licences to the Garda station within days of being checked; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3474/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe measures referred to by the Deputy are proposed for inclusion in a forthcoming Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.
The Deputy will appreciate that I, as Minister for Justice and Equality, have no direct role in the development of road traffic legislation, nor do I have a direct role in the enforcement of road traffic legislation, which is an operational matter for An Garda Síochána.
My officials consulted with An Garda Síochána in relation to the key proposals put forward in the Scheme, on foot of which, my Department expressed general support for the overall intention of the Bill, namely to improve safety on the road network and influence driver behaviour.
As is normal with all road safety measures with implications for policing and enforcement, I would expect further engagement between the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, officials from my Department and An Garda Síochána as these proposals are developed.
