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22 Apr 2026
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22 Apr 2026
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Cynthia Ní Mhurchú said the figures in Clare and Tipperary are disappointing because they show that learner drivers are just not getting the message
A 22.7% increase in the number of unaccompanied learner drivers caught by gardaí in the Clare/Tipperary Garda division between 2024 and 2025 is cause for concern, according to an Ireland South MEP.
Ireland South MEP and road safety advocate, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, has said she is disappointed with a 22.7% increase in the number of unaccompanied learner drivers issued fixed charge notices by gardaí in the Clare/Tipperary Garda division between 2024 and 2025.
322 learner drivers were issued fixed charge notices by gardaí in Clare/Tipperary for driving unaccompanied in 2024. This rose to 395 people in 2025, an increase of 22.7%. In contrast, Garda figures show reductions in the number of learner drivers caught driving unaccompanied in nearby Kerry and Limerick.
Ní Mhurchú said the figures in Clare and Tipp are disappointing because they show that learner drivers are just not getting the message.
“Learner drivers lack the experience and judgment required to handle complex driving situations," she said.
"That can mean more accidents on our roads. When an inexperienced driver gets behind the wheel of a car without any supervision they are endangering themselves, other drivers and other road users”.
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Ní Mhurchú said it is important to remind parents that learner drivers must be accompanied at all times by someone who has held a full, valid driving licence in the same category for a minimum of two years. Those who are convicted of driving unaccompanied, or those who allow their vehicle to be driven by an unaccompanied learner driver, can have their vehicle impounded.
Ní Mhurchú highlighted the fact that many parents do not know that their car is at risk of being impounded if their son or daughter drives it unaccompanied.
Driving unaccompanied can lead to fines of up to €1,000 and four penalty points.
The Transport MEP said she also wants to see continued improvements in driving test wait times.
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