Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins met students from St Mary’s High School and Limavady High School at their shared campus in Limavady to discuss the Graduated Driver Licensing scheme.

The scheme aims to cut fatal and serious road traffic collisions involving new drivers, mainly young ones. It sets a revised training, testing and post-test framework for new drivers and motorcyclists. Officials launched it within a new Road Safety Strategy Action Plan, created with emergency services and other agencies.

Kimmins stated the changes mark the biggest update to driver licensing and testing in nearly 70 years. The measures target young drivers most at risk of death or serious injury on roads.

In 2024, car drivers aged 17-23 caused collisions with 164 casualties, either killed or seriously injured. That age group accounted for 24% of fatal or serious collisions while holding 8% of licences.

The scheme requires structured learning via a Driver’s Programme of Training and Logbook. It seeks to prepare drivers beyond technical skills by addressing how attitude, personality, behaviour and feelings influence driving.

Kimmins called road safety a key priority for her department. The scheme will help ensure safe road use by all.

The Department plans a public information campaign on the scheme soon. Officials will consult approved instructors, the PSNI and other stakeholders before introduction.