Penalty points are cutting road deaths

The introduction of the penalty points system for speeding has helped cut road deaths by one third, official figures suggest.

Despite the dramatic reduction in road fatalities, Transport Minister Seamus Brennan has urged motorists not to "slip back into old habits". He also urged the gardai to continue to make enforcement of speeding their number one road safety priority.

The Minister confirmed that the penalty points system would be extended on June 1, to cover no insurance. Non-wearing of seatbelts will be included from July 1.