Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe admits difficulties in outlawing driver phone use

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe has defended dropping plans to outlaw all use of electronic devices while driving, saying the legislation as proposed would have been too easily challenged in court.

Legal experts in his department are now struggling to find a way to prohibit use of hands-free phones and other gadgets while permitting the use of touch-screen car stereos and other digital displays that are now in-built in newer car models.

The new Road Traffic Bill had intended prohibiting all uses of hands-free electronic devices with gardaí due to be given powers to issue fixed charge notices carrying an automatic three penalty points and a €60 fine.