A law banning the use of mobile phones in cars is expected to be enforced from early October, it emerged last night.
The Department of Transport said the prohibition, enacted earlier this year but left dormant amid concerns over its enforceability, will be implemented as quickly as is practicable.
Use of hands-free kits and of two-way radios by the emergency services have been exempted from the regulations following consultation with the Gardaí. Only the use of a phone, as opposed to merely having one in a vehicle, will be banned.
When the legislation was unveiled in March, gardaí expressed fears over its practicality. Since then it has remained in legal limbo. Agreement has now been reached between the Department, the Office of the Attorney General and senior gardaí over enactment of the law.
The revised regulations will be presented to Cabinet in mid-September. Drivers caught on the phone will be liable to fines of up to €190 for a first offence, €435 for a second offence and, ultimately, a possible three-month prison sentences.