RSA Launches Consultation on New Graduated Driving Licensing System for
Learner Drivers
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched, on Tuesday 13th January 2009,
a consultation process to seek the views of the public on the introduction of a
Graduated Driving Licensing (GDL) system for learner drivers in Ireland
The aim of a GDL system is to reduce the number of collisions, deaths and injuries among
learner drivers, particularly the high risk 17 to 24 year olds, during the
learner period. GDL systems generally place a range of restrictions on learner
drivers which also apply for a period, usually two years after passing a driving
test.
"The introduction of a Graduated Licensing system and reforming the way people learn
to drive in Ireland is an important part of the Government's Road Safety Strategy 2007 to 2012."
said Noel Brett, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority.
The objective of the consultation process is to seek the views of interested parties
and open up a discussion on the introduction of a Graduated Licensing system
that's appropriate for Ireland
"Learner
drivers are vulnerable road users and face greater risks and challenges due to
their inexperience. Evidence suggests that the best way to reduce risk is to
introduce measures that are designed to protect them until they have built up
enough experience behind the wheel." Added Mr. Brett.
The RSA has
produced a consultation paper entitled 'Graduated Driving Licensing System -
Consultation Paper 2008'. This document gives a background to the way learner
drivers are taught to drive in Ireland,
highlights Ireland's
road safety track record and gives examples of GDL systems in other countries
and how successful measures have been in reducing risk among learner drivers.
Finally it introduces specific measures that could be considered for this
country and seeks feedback from the public.
Measures
being examined that could form part of a new Graduated Licensing System for Ireland include;
- Zero alcohol levels
- Night-time curfew
-
Increased penalty points
-
Hazard perception testing
-
Age restriction for passengers
-
Mandatory tuition
-
Restricted car power
-
Extended supervised driving
-
Upgraded driving test
"The purpose
of this consultation paper is to look at the likely practical implications of
introducing changes to the way people learn to drive and to look for the views
of the public on the likely impact of these changes." commented Mr. Brett.
"Some changes
have already taken place. For example the old provisional licence has been
replaced by a learner permit. All drivers holding a learner permit must now be
accompanied by a driver who has held a full licence for a minimum of two years.
A person may not take a driving test for six months after gaining a Learner
Permit." He said.
In tandem with this consultation process the RSA is carrying out a study of the way people
learn to drive in Ireland and this will involve further research and discussions with many organisations
involved in driver education, licensing, instruction and testing.
Graduated Licensing systems are in place in a number of countries, most notably Australia, New
Zealand, the US and Canada. A number
of EU countries have partial GDL in place.
The consultative process will last for eight weeks. The closing date for receipt of
submissions is Friday 14 March 2009. Comments can be emailed to
gdlconsultation@rsa.ie or they can
be posted to GDL Consultation, Road Safety Authority, Moy Valley Business Park,
Primrose Hill, Ballina, Co. Mayo.
Copies of the consultation paper can be found on the RSA's website
www.rsa.ie by requesting it from
gdlconsultation@rsa.ie or by
contacting the RSA on locall 1890 50 60 80.
To download a copy of the GDL Consultation Paper click on the following link:
http://www.rsa.ie/Home/upload/File/GDL%20Consultation%20Doc%20V3.pdf
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