Minister asks Attorney General for 'urgent' advice on penalty points loophole

The Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe is expected to brief the Cabinet on a loophole which could quash penalty points issued to thousands of motorists.

The nature of the flaw has not been revealed, but it is understood to relate to the increased points for offences like using a phone while driving, and speeding.

Minister Donohoe says he has asked the Attorney General for advice on the possible need to change the legislation to close the loophole.

This problem has caused alarm in the Department of Transport with fears that thousands of penalty points issued in recent months could be compromised.

According to the Irish Independent, the Department is not disclosing any details about the loophole for fear it might be exploited.

It says the problem affects the new laws which increased the penalty points issued for not wearing a seatbelt, using a phone while driving and speeding.

Minister Donohoe has now asked the Office of the Attorney General for “urgent” advice on whether the flaw can be removed by changing the legislation.

It is understood Máire Whelan will report back to the Minister this week, while the issue is expected to be raised at this morning’s Cabinet meeting.