The new penalty points system is not intended "just to put people off the road", the Dβil was told.

Its primary purpose is "to prevent recurring breaches of traffic laws" by instilling a greater "precautionary approach", said Mr Bobby Molloy, Minister of State for the Environment.

He said he expects a recommendation "very shortly" from the Road Safety Group about banning the use of mobile phones while driving.

Mr Michael Moynihan (FF, Cork North West) believed that "public representatives are probably among the biggest culprits as we are constantly on the phone", and said hand-free sets should be used.

Mr Austin Currie (FG, Dublin West) said there was an "unanswerable case for banning hand-held phones and it should be an offence for which there is a considerable penalty".

The penalty points system, said Mr Molloy, balanced constitutional provisions and the overall administration and enforcement of road traffic legislation. He denied the new system would give the Garda new powers "to directly impose penalties on motorists".

Both Opposition and Government deputies criticised elements of the system.

Mr Ivor Callely (FF, Dublin North Central) was not sure that a person should be automatically disqualified after reaching 12 points over three years. "We are pushing this a little too hard," he said, stressing the need for practical tests for young drivers before they are allowed on the road.

Mr Brian Hayes (FG, Dublin South West) believed that reducing the number of points on payment of a fine would discriminate against the poor. "A wealthy person in his BMW or black Mercedes could continually drive carelessly, flout the law, pay up whenever caught and get away with it. However, a poor person who may not be able to afford an on-the-spot fine, gets five points."

The Bill now goes to Committee Stage.