Paul Kehoe
Ceist:70. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport if the start date for a driving ban can be deferred (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26694/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 19 May 2021
Ceisteanna (70)
Freagraí scríofa
The penalty point system was designed to improve driver behaviour, thereby making our roads safer for all. A driver who is detected committing a driving offence, and who subsequently has penalty points endorsed on their licence, is expected to change their driving habits for the better. Drivers who have the occasional lapse in judgement receive penalty points, and then can learn from the experience as a reminder to obey road traffic legislation in the future.
However, a driver who has exceeded the penalty point limit has been detected engaging in criminal driving behaviour which puts themselves and other road users in danger on a number of occasions in a three year period. It is therefore appropriate that a period of disqualification is imposed.
It is not possible to defer the start date of a driving disqualification, and I have no plans to amend the current arrangements. If drivers wish to avoid disqualification, they should ensure that they drive safely by obeying the legislation in force.