Govt to introduce mandatory training for motorcyclists

The Government is planning to introduce new regulations forcing motorcyclists on provisional licences to undergo basic training before being allowed on the roads.

The regulations will be introduced on a phased basis later this year.

Transport Minister Seamus Brennan said motorcyclists on provisional licences would have to undergo a 10-day training programme before being given a permit to drive on the roads.

He said 70% of Irish motorcyclists do not have a full licence.

Ireland has one of the highest rates of motorcycle-related deaths in Europe, with 45 riders and passengers killed on our roads last year.