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29/05/2012
Shake-up For Learner Drivers In The Pipeline
The Environment Minister has tabled plans that amount to a radical shake-up of the rules for learner drivers.
Teenagers could be able to get behind the wheel at the age of 16-and-a-half, and the 45mph speed limit for new drivers could be scrapped.
If approved by the Executive at Stormont, the reforms could be introduced through the Assembly later this year.
Under the plans, the earliest anyone could get a full driving licence would be at the age of 17-and-a-half, and the post-test period would extend from one year to two, during which time drivers would wear an 'N' sticker.
Learner drivers would be allowed on motorways when in dual-controlled cars with their instructor, and would have to take at least 12 months of lessons before sitting their driving test.
Alex Attwood, Environment Minister, said the changes were designed with road safety in mind.
He said: "Car drivers under 25 are responsible for 44% of road fatalities but hold only 11% of full car licences. We need to change how we help new drivers become safe drivers for life."
Otto Thoresen of the Association of British Insurers said: "Politicians in Westminster should consider following Northern Ireland's lead in making the changes that are needed to ensure that the young drivers of today become the older drivers of tomorrow. By giving young learners a more controlled driving experience before obtaining a full driving licence, they will learn to drive rather than learning to pass the driving test."
(NE)
Teenagers could be able to get behind the wheel at the age of 16-and-a-half, and the 45mph speed limit for new drivers could be scrapped.
If approved by the Executive at Stormont, the reforms could be introduced through the Assembly later this year.
Under the plans, the earliest anyone could get a full driving licence would be at the age of 17-and-a-half, and the post-test period would extend from one year to two, during which time drivers would wear an 'N' sticker.
Learner drivers would be allowed on motorways when in dual-controlled cars with their instructor, and would have to take at least 12 months of lessons before sitting their driving test.
Alex Attwood, Environment Minister, said the changes were designed with road safety in mind.
He said: "Car drivers under 25 are responsible for 44% of road fatalities but hold only 11% of full car licences. We need to change how we help new drivers become safe drivers for life."
Otto Thoresen of the Association of British Insurers said: "Politicians in Westminster should consider following Northern Ireland's lead in making the changes that are needed to ensure that the young drivers of today become the older drivers of tomorrow. By giving young learners a more controlled driving experience before obtaining a full driving licence, they will learn to drive rather than learning to pass the driving test."
(NE)
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21 May 2018
Teenager Assaulted In L'Derry
A teenager has been assaulted in Co L'Derry. The attack, which is being treated as sectarian, happened in the Waterside area just after 10pm on Saturday, 19 May. The 15-year-old was repeatedly kicked on his head, face and back. He was able to get away and a member of the public brought him home.
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A teenager has been assaulted in Co L'Derry. The attack, which is being treated as sectarian, happened in the Waterside area just after 10pm on Saturday, 19 May. The 15-year-old was repeatedly kicked on his head, face and back. He was able to get away and a member of the public brought him home.
24 September 2015
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19 December 2012
Man Dies Following Incident On The M2
A man has died following an incident at the Hightown Bridge on the M2 near Belfast. Police were forced to close the motorway in both directions this morning. Police also urged drivers caught up in the delays to continue to have patience, as officers worked to get the traffic flowing again. The road and Hightown Bridge have now been re-opened.
Man Dies Following Incident On The M2
A man has died following an incident at the Hightown Bridge on the M2 near Belfast. Police were forced to close the motorway in both directions this morning. Police also urged drivers caught up in the delays to continue to have patience, as officers worked to get the traffic flowing again. The road and Hightown Bridge have now been re-opened.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
