Varadker secures approval for minimum hit-and-run jail sentences
Leo Varadkar, the transport minister, last night got the agreement from his ministerial colleagues to accept a Fianna Fáil motion to clamp down on the practice of drivers escaping the scene of a crash.
Mr Varadkar accepts the opposition’s argument that the current penalty of a maximum of six months in prison for hit-and-run accidents, is far too lenient and is not enough of a deterrent.
He has told the Fianna Fáil spokesman, Timmy Dooley, that he accepts the broad thrust of his bill aimed at toughening up laws which will be debated in the Dáil on Friday.
Mr Varadkar said he will introduce most of its proposals through a committee stage amendment of the current Road Traffic Number 2 Bill, which is currently going through the Oireachtas.
However, he is opposed to Mr Dooley’s proposal to lengthen the period during which a driver can be tested for alcohol or drugs from three to 24 hours.
His department has received advice that this is not medically possible and cannot be implemented.
“The minister wants to see meaningful jail sentences being imposed for serious hit and run incidents,” said a spokesperson for the minister.
“The aim is to deter people from leaving the scene of a collision, and ensure that appropriate penalties are in place for anyone who does leave the scene of an accident after causing death or serious injury.”
