Justice Minister Naomi Long proposes increasing maximum sentence for death by dangerous driving to 20 years
Naomi Long outlined the plans in a meeting with victims families who have for years campaigned for change
Eighteen year-old Enda Dolan was knocked down by a driver who was high on drink and drugs
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BBC News
By Julian O Neill
Published
image copyrightDolan family
image captionThe proposal has been outlined by Justice Minister Naomi Long, after she met with the parents of Enda Dolan
The maximum jail term for causing death by dangerous driving in NI is set to increase from 14 to 20 years, Justice Minister Naomi Long is proposing.
She outlined the move in talks with the parents of teenagers Enda Dolan and Lesley-Ann McCarragher.
Mr Dolan was killed by dangerous driving in 2014, and Ms McCarragher in 2016.
However the legislative change, subject to assembly approval, is not likely until after the 2022 Stormont election.
Mrs Long s decision follows a review of sentencing policy started in 2016.
Two families who have united to call for stiffer penalties after losing teenage children to dangerous drivers have criticised plans to impose 10-year prison sentences on travellers who try to evade coronavirus quarantine rules.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Tuesday that people returning to England from 33 red list destinations would have to pay £1,750 to quarantine for 10 days in Government-designated hotels.
Those caught lying about their movements could be fined £10,000 or jailed for 10 years.
But critics have said the penalties are disproportionate to the offence, with former Supreme Court justice Lord Sumption arguing the penalties are more severe than those for some violent or sexual offences.