We’ll put brakes on bad drivers
Minister pledges action over repeat offenders as part of crackdown
COMPULSORY “re-education” and “driver awareness” courses for repeat offenders are being considered as part of the crackdown on dangerous driving, Road Safety Minister James Lawless has confirmed.
Political pressure is continuing to build on the Road Safety Authority amid growing concerns about the number of fatalities on Irish roads.
It was reported over the weekend that the Department of Transport is considering a review that would strip the RSA of its driver and vehicle testing roles.
In response to a parliamentary question, Minister Lawless confirmed to Green Party TD Marc O Cathasaigh that the driver test curriculum is also under review.
This, he explained, will ensure the service is “fit for purpose, future-proofed and can cope with changes in vehicle technology”.
Mr Lawless further confirmed this will also consider the “appropriate testing regime for drivers who have been disqualified”.
He added that he is also “examining alternative and complementary strategies in this area of road safety”, involving education for those found to be driving dangerously.
He explained: “Amongst items under consideration are a graduated approach to penalty points with more severe points being attracted by significant infringements, along with the possibility of compulsory re-education, driver awareness [and] courses for repeat offenders.”
A review of the RSA was ordered earlier this year and a draft report is now being considered. The
Irish Mirror understands that the organisation met with officials from the Department of Transport in recent weeks and was told reforms would be required.
Minister Lawless told RTE Radio 1’s This Week programme on Sunday that he expected to receive the full report on the RSA’S future soon. He confirmed that one recommendation involved taking driver and vehicle testing out of the RSA’S remit to “free them up to regroup around its core mission”.
As of August 4, 113 people had died in 104 collisions on Irish roads.
Possibility of compulsory re-education and driver awareness courses
JAMES LAWLESS ROAD SAFETY MINISTER YESTERDAY