The Green Party has proposed an annual driving theory test for provisional and full licence holders as part of a plan to reduce the cost of motor insurance for young drivers.
Under the proposal announced today, successful completion of the test would lead to a reduction in insurance premiums.
The Greens also propose the introduction of a voluntary "R" plate for young drivers who agree to drive cars of less than 1,300 cc, and who agree not to exceed a speed of 50mph.
In addition, no more than two passengers could be carried in the vehicle.
The scheme would lead to significant reduction in insurance premiums for those taking part in it, but any breach of the rules would result in instant disqualification and standard insurance rates being applied retrospectively.
The party also believes ten hours of on-the-road safety training with a qualified instructor should be mandatory before receiving a provisional licence, with the cost of the service deducted from the driver's first annual insurance premium in their own name.
Green Party Youth Spokesperson Cllr Paul Gogarty said: "responsible young motorists have been penalised for far too long at the expense of more reckless drivers".
