Varadker secures approval for minimum hit-and-run jail sentences

Minimum jail sentences for hit-and-run drivers will be introduced as part of plans for tougher sanctions against dangerous driving.

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.