Sir, - As one who served for many years on the National Safety Council I am saddened at the recent upsurge in road deaths and particularly the increase in accidents resulting in multiple fatalities. Countless appeals, advertising campaigns and the never ending chronicle of horrific accidents do not appear to affect those determined to drive fast and take risks regardless of the danger to themselves and to other road users.
I suggest, therefore, immediate legislation to provide a simple tariff to deal with those who insist on their selfish right to drive fast and are detected:
15 per cent over the legal speed limit (whether 30 mph or 70 mph): one month's licence suspension.
30 per cent over the legal speed limit: three months' suspension of licence and impounding of the vehicle for the same period. This would discourage unscrupulous employers from putting unreasonable pressures on their employees and change the lifestyle of all road hogs.
The early introduction and implementation of legislation along the lines suggested would ensure fewer sad homes this Christmas. - Yours, etc.,
Robert K. Gahan,
PC,
Kilgobbin Lawn,
Stepaside,
Co Dublin.