Cross Border Driving Loophole Closed

A loophole in the law, which allows drivers to circumvent the law has been closed as ministers from both sides of the border met in Belfast.

Delegates from Great Britain, Ireland and Northern Ireland, including all the ministers for transport, held talks aimed at harmonising the road safety regulations, and so close the loopholes presently being exploited by some drivers.

At present, a motorist who is disqualified in Northern Ireland can still get a licence to drive in the Irish Republic and vice versa.

The situation also applies to Britain, but Thursday's talks will focus on ways to close these loopholes. An agreement on the matter would be the first practical step of its kind in Europe.

In a statement, the British Minister for transport, Stephen Ladyman, pledged to close the loophole that permits drivers to potentially accumulate 18 points on their licence before receiving a ban as quickly as possible.

Penalty points in Northern Ireland are not currently recorded in Britain, meaning motorists could clock up nine points in both regions before they reached the 12 point limit that would constitute a ban.

Mr Ladyman told the Commons Transport Committee that the current state of affairs is "unacceptable" and insisted that the government was intent on correcting the loophole.

However, the lobbying group Safe Speed has said that the changes to regulations would likely impact upon just a handful of motorists.

Northern Ireland Environment Minister, Sammy Wilson, welcomed the progress made toward reaching an agreement.

He said: "I believe this will deal with the worst offenders who think that they can disregard the law without consequence when driving outside their own state."

The Irish Transport Minister Noel Dempsey also welcomed the move. He said: "This deal on the mutual recognition of disqualified drivers across all three jurisdictions is good news for road users.

"All three Governments are working hard to save lives on our roads and this deal will be a very welcome addition to that work," he said.

However, motorists need not worry yet, as the minister said that primary legislation had first to be passed before the regulations could be changed.

(DW)