Drivers set to be fined 拢200 for mobile phone use
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No precise timetable has been given for the increase in the fines, but it could be as soon as November
Tougher penalties for drivers who use mobile phones at the wheel could be introduced in Northern Ireland in weeks
The plan is to impose a fine of 拢200 and six penalty points, an increase from the current three penalty points and a 拢60 fine.
Donald Starritt, from the Department of Infrastructure, told a Stormont committee there was no precise timetable.
He said he was hopeful the penalties would be in place by November.
Two Sinn F茅in members said they were concerned some people would struggle to pay the 拢200 fine
But the SDLP's Dolores Kelly said: "In my opinion unless it hits people's pockets it doesn't work."
In March this year, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said she intended to legislate for tougher measures against people using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.
Speaking to the 成人快手 at the time, Ms Mallon said the 拢60 fine "doesn't reflect the seriousness" of the dangers of driving while on the phone.
- Published1 November 2019
- Published9 March 2020
