Fines and points: Motorists to be penalised for proximity to cyclists

Over the course of the past two years, 20 cyclists have lost their lives on Irish roads.

Owing to this, Fine Gael have sought to introduce a new law which will fine motorists €80, in addition to receiving three penalty points, if they are caught encroaching on a cyclist's road space.

Should the case make its way to court and result in a conviction, the motorist at the centre of the incident will face fines of up to €1,500 and five penalty points.

The Road Traffic (Minimum Passing Distance of Cyclists) Bill 2017 means that a minimum passing distance will be set at 1.5 metres on roads with speed limits of more than 50 kmh, while roads with lower speed limits would require a distance of one metre.

Fine Gael TDs, Ciaran Cannon, and Government chief whip. Regina Doherty, are seeking the support of Transport Minister Shane Ross and the transport spokespersons of other political parties in a bid to see the passing of the law by the Dáil's summer recess.

As it stands, similar laws have been passed in a number of European countries including France, Belgium, Portugal.

The Bill will be published later today.