Penalty points system 'could be PR disaster'
A new penalty points system for motorists could ‘‘flop’’ unless the correct technology is in place to manage the system, the Insurance Federation has warned.
While welcoming the new initiative, which will see persistent offenders banned from the roads, the group raised fears that police and government computers were not ready to handle the system.
A spokesman added that it should be introduced quickly to win public confidence and that it could potentially turn into a public relations disaster for the Government unless handled correctly.
Transport minister Seamus Brennan said on Friday that the system would be gradually introduced from October - initially targeting speeding motorists and then extending to include other offenders.
The system, similar to the one operating in Britain and Northern Ireland, should be fully in place by the end of 2003.
Its introduction has already faced a series of delays because computer equipment was not available.
IIF spokesman Martin Long said the scheme, if properly managed, could be ‘‘the most effective tool in the road safety armoury’’.
‘‘We welcome any initiative that increases enforcement on the roads,’’ he said.
But he added: ‘‘Currently it is well known that the technology is not in place.
‘‘Unless it is implemented properly with the appropriate technology it is going to be a public relations, and actual, disaster.
‘‘Unless the Gardai and the Department of the Environment have the right computers, it is going to flop.’’
Points will be imposed for speeding (two points), careless driving (two points), dangerous parking (five points), failing to wear a seatbelt (two points) and driving while using a mobile phone (one point).
The points can be increased if the offending motorist makes an unsuccessful court appeal against the sanction.
And the courts can still impose bans and fines for offences.
If the driver commits no other offences within three years of the points being added the slate will be wiped clean.
Drivers who incur 12 points on their licence will be banned for six months.
More serious offences, such as drinking and driving, will still be dealt with as criminal offences.
