Social Democratic and Labour Party MLA Daniel McCrossan has welcomed proposals to increase sentences for those who cause death or serious injury through dangerous driving.

The West Tyrone MLA met with Justice Minister Naomi Long today as part of a campaign led by Peter and Niamh Dolan whose son Enda was killed in October 2014.

The Justice Minister has proposed increasing the tariff for causing death or grievous bodily harm by dangerous driving from 14 to 20 years.

Daniel McCrossan MLA said:

“After the tragic loss of their son Enda in 2014, Peter and Niamh Dolan have waged a courageous campaign to address the unduly lenient sentencing for those who cause death by dangerous driving. Enda was an inspiring young man who had so much left to live for and while nothing can bring their son back, I know that Peter and Niamh have been driven by their determination to secure justice for families who go through this terrible pain in the future.

“We have been working hard on this issue for a number of years and I am pleased that the Justice Minister has indicated her intention to move on this important issue by raising the tariff for these offences from 14 to 20 years.

“I hope that the increased sentences will act as a serious deterrent to those who think about driving under the influence of drink or drugs or without insurance. And I hope that those who lose loved ones in these unimaginably difficult circumstances see justice.

“This has been a long road for Peter and Niamh Dolan but they’ve done Enda proud and if even one person thinks twice about getting behind the wheel of a car while under the influence, it will be a result of their tireless campaign.”