'Specs' Camera Catches Just One Driver

Figures released today reveal that just one motorist has been caught speeding by a speed camera on the A2 road.

Thirty-two Speed Enforcement Camera System (SPECS) cameras operate on the main A2 road in north Down since being switched on in May.

The 'Specs' cameras monitor traffic flowing in both directions of the A2, between Bangor and Hollywood.

Department of the Environment Minister Arlene Foster welcomed the use of the 'Specs' system on the A2.

"Speed is one of the main causes of death and serious injury on our roads. If you crash, speed will always make things worse. The SPECS system on the A2 is to be welcomed as it will encourage drivers to drive at a reasonable and sensible speed," she said.

A 'Specs' system also operates on the A1 Dual Carriageway between the Sheepbridge Road and Newry.

It is reported that 77 motorists have been caught speeding in the two years they have been in operation.

The Northern Ireland Safety Camera Scheme uses four different types of cameras, those being Red Light Running Cameras, Speed enforcement camera system, fixed cameras and Mobile Camera Units.

A public perception survey of the Northern Ireland Safety Camera Scheme found that women take a more positive attitude towards the use of safety cameras than males. It was also found that age was also a "significant factor" in peoples' perceptions, with respondents in the older age groups generally being more supportive.

Community background was also a factor in attitudes.

Motorists caught by speed cameras are fined a fixed penalty of £60 together with three penalty points on their driving licence.

If the case if brought before court, offenders can be fined a maximum of £1,000, awarded three penalty points and may face disqualification on discretion of the magistrate.

(DS/JM)