System will help cut roads 'slaughter'

THE new penalty points system will bring down the unacceptable level of death and serious injury on Irish roads, according to Transport Minister, Séamus Brennan.

From tomorrow all motorists run the risk of clocking up penalty points on their licence and increased fines if caught speeding.

An extra 60 traffic offences, such as breaking red lights and failing to wear a seat belt, will also carry penalty points when the full system is rolled out next year. Drivers will also be required to carry their driving licences in their vehicles at all times from January 2003 onwards to strengthen the enforcement of the points system.