Menu
12/03/2003
Tough new laws for road offences unveiled
It has been revealed that tougher sentences for so-called joyriders and new legislation to improve road safety will be spearheaded in a review of the Road Traffic Penalties legislation.
A consultation document released today proposes a number of, what the government describes as "significant, and in some cases fundamental", reforms to the law. The consultation period will run for 12 weeks.
Criminal Justice Minister, Des Browne, said: "This review is aimed at reducing the number of deaths on our roads and raising the level of road safety awareness in Northern Ireland.
The paper comprises a total of some 25 main proposals, together with a number of other, more technical, issues for consultation.
The most significant changes put forward by the document relate to:
Mr Browne added: "It also includes proposals to make tough new penalties available to judges in sentencing so-called joyriders and sends a clear message that the government regards this type of abhorrent behaviour as utterly unacceptable. I believe that those involved in this corrosive and destructive crime should pay a heavy price and this document contains a framework to allow this to happen.
"In recent months we have all witnessed a worryingly high number of fatal collisions across Northern Ireland. Already this year the lives of too many families in this community have been touched by tragedy in this needless way."
(GMcG)
A consultation document released today proposes a number of, what the government describes as "significant, and in some cases fundamental", reforms to the law. The consultation period will run for 12 weeks.
Criminal Justice Minister, Des Browne, said: "This review is aimed at reducing the number of deaths on our roads and raising the level of road safety awareness in Northern Ireland.
The paper comprises a total of some 25 main proposals, together with a number of other, more technical, issues for consultation.
The most significant changes put forward by the document relate to:
- a requirement to re-train or re-qualify after disqualification or, in some cases, as an alternative to prosecution
- an increase in the penalties available for dangerous driving and driving while under the influence of drink or drugs where the offence involves causing death or grievous bodily injury the creation of the offence of aggravated vehicle taking for Northern Ireland together with the associated causing death or grievous bodily injury offence, with high level penalties
- an increase in the maximum penalty for dangerous driving heavier penalties for repeat drink-driving offenders and drivers with a high level of alcohol
- a new two-tier fixed penalty system for speeding, which will award a higher level of points to those who exceed the limit by a wider margin.
Mr Browne added: "It also includes proposals to make tough new penalties available to judges in sentencing so-called joyriders and sends a clear message that the government regards this type of abhorrent behaviour as utterly unacceptable. I believe that those involved in this corrosive and destructive crime should pay a heavy price and this document contains a framework to allow this to happen.
"In recent months we have all witnessed a worryingly high number of fatal collisions across Northern Ireland. Already this year the lives of too many families in this community have been touched by tragedy in this needless way."
(GMcG)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
25 November 2024
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
04 September 2008
Jailed Joyriders' Grave Record
Two car thieves with more than 150 convictions between them have each been jailed for two years - although that fate seems less dramatic than that of other so-called 'joyriders', several of whom have been killed.
Jailed Joyriders' Grave Record
Two car thieves with more than 150 convictions between them have each been jailed for two years - although that fate seems less dramatic than that of other so-called 'joyriders', several of whom have been killed.
29 May 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.
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.
19 September 2018
Up To 100 Roads Closed As Storm Ali Hits NI
A growing number of roads across Northern Ireland are closed due to adverse weather conditions as a result of Storm Ali.
Up To 100 Roads Closed As Storm Ali Hits NI
A growing number of roads across Northern Ireland are closed due to adverse weather conditions as a result of Storm Ali.
20 September 2018
Number Of Roads Remain Closed Following Storm Ali
A number of roads remain closed across Northern Ireland following the damage caused by Storm Ali. The following roads are still closed, however the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is working to clear the obstructions along with its multiagency partners.
Number Of Roads Remain Closed Following Storm Ali
A number of roads remain closed across Northern Ireland following the damage caused by Storm Ali. The following roads are still closed, however the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is working to clear the obstructions along with its multiagency partners.
-
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.
