Police in Derry City & Strabane have secured £2,000 in funding from the Derry & Strabane Policing & Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) for seven new light-measuring devices to test window tints on vehicles.

Current legislation mandates that front windscreens must allow at least 75% of light to pass through, while front side windows must permit at least 70%. These regulations do not apply to the rear windscreen or rear passenger windows.

Strabane Neighbourhood Policing Team Sergeant Ryan Johnston expressed gratitude for the funding, stating that police are "extremely grateful" to the PCSP for the new tint meter devices. Sergeant Johnston highlighted the potential dangers posed by non-compliant window tints. "It's important drivers understand the potential dangers that can arise from tinted windows that don't comply with the law," he said. He cited recent tests in Strabane where some vehicles recorded light transmission readings as low as 12% and 43%. "Window tints will restrict a driver's ability to see the more vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, especially in low light conditions. Visibility problems are particularly bad around times like dusk, or bad weather when light levels can change quickly."

He added: "We want drivers to understand the risks with illegal window tints and the dangers they can pose for drivers, their passengers and other road users, and so we are extremely grateful to Derry & Strabane PCSP for this funding.”

Chair of Derry & Strabane PCSP, Martin Reilly, affirmed the partnership's commitment to road safety. "We are committed to making our roads safer for everyone in Derry and Strabane. This funding for new tint meters will provide our police with the necessary tools to enforce the law effectively and, crucially, to educate drivers on the very real risks associated with illegal window tints. It's an investment in the safety of our community."

Sergeant Johnston warned that enforcement action for illegal window tints can include Fixed Penalty Notices or, if necessary, vehicle seizure. He concluded by stating: "Road safety is everyone's responsibility and that means everyone doing all they can to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and fit for purpose and playing their part in keeping our roads safe for everyone."