Irish ban hand-held phones

 
Date: 2002-03-22

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The Irish government stopped short of banning hands-free phone use while driving but under a new government move announced last night it will impose heavy fines and up to three-month jail terms on drivers who use hand-held phones while on the move.

Road safety minister Bobby Molloy said he will bring in a new measure that will impose fines of up to 435 Euros (US$495) on drivers who are caught, and also make them liable for enough penalty points to ensure a 6-month ban on driving.

While the fine and jail terms were introduced yesterday, the penalty points and six month driving ban will be introduced in the Irish parliament during the next stage of its Road Traffic Bill.

Mr. Molloy said the ban doesn't apply to hands-free mobile phones, even though research indicates that these are just as great a distraction. "I would prefer to see all drivers stopping in a safe place to use their phones, he said. "I will look at this issue again in the light of further experience."

The minister pointed to widespread concern amongst the public. The new regulations require drivers to park safely before using hand-held phones. The ban also covers emergency services, taxis and other public service vehicles. Read Irish Independent article

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