Penalty points: Campaigners slam 'face-saving stunt'

The Mothers Against Drunk Driving group has described the introduction of a penalty points system for motorists as a "face-saving exercise" by the Government.

The system, whereby motorists have points deducted from their licence for each offence they commit, is due to come into force on Thursday, despite opposition from the Gardai.

Gertee Shields from Mothers Against Drunk Driving said: "It's a waste of time. The Gardai themselves have expressed concern that they don't have the equipment or the manpower to monitor or to enforce it.

"Without putting in place a traffic corps and as much equipment as is needed or whatever resources the Gardai needed, it's really only a face-saving exercise."