Bringing banned drivers to book

Ulster Unionist environment spokesperson Roy Beggs has welcomed the implementation of a new law which will keep banned drivers off UK and Irish roads.

"Dangerous driving is dangerous wherever you are, and it is only fitting that the punishment should be applied with equal consistency.

"Those drivers who think that they can flout the law without consequence when driving outside their own state will be brought to book by this development.

"Road deaths are an all too regular occurrence in Northern Ireland , and any move which minimises the danger from those who pose the most serious risk to other road users is very welcome.

"This is an important step forward in road safety, and will ensure that drivers who should not be on our roads cannot take advantage of separate jurisdictions," the East Antrim UUP MLA said.

"Disqualified drivers were banned for a reason, and this will ensure that their Northern Ireland record is recognised in the Republic of Ireland , and vice versa.

"I welcome this ground-breaking agreement, which best serves the people on both sides of the border."