Brennan announces penalty points extension

The expected extension to the penalty points system was announced today by the Minister for Transport, Mr Seamus Brennan.

Mr Brennan extended the system to include offences of driving without insurance and not wearing a seatbelt.

Those convicted of speeding and drink-driving already lose points on their licence under the system.

Yesterday, the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors threatened industrial action if the system was extended because the scheme was not yet computerised, making it unwieldy for gardaí to use and process offences.

Mr Brennan also endorsed in principle a system operated by the insurance industry that rewards law-abiding in motorists with lower insurance premiums.