Sinéad Ennis has welcomed the introduction of sweeping changes to driver licensing and testing, describing them as the most far-reaching reforms in over seven decades aimed at improving road safety and safeguarding young and newly qualified motorists.

From 1 October 2026, the process for learning to drive will be updated, supported by a public information campaign under the 'Road Ready' brand.

The South Down MLA said: "Keeping our young people safe on our roads must be a priority, and these changes Minister Liz Kimmins is advancing represent a major step forward in how we prepare people for a lifetime of safe driving. "The initiative is designed to ensure learner drivers are better prepared not only to pass their driving test, but also for the crucial period of driving independently after passing their test.

"Graduated Driver Licensing is about putting road safety at the heart of the driver licensing system. These are significant changes, but they are necessary changes. Our young people deserve to be able to use our roads safely, and everyone should have confidence that new drivers are properly prepared for the responsibility that comes with driving independently.

"I look forward to seeing the positive impact these changes can have on reducing serious collisions and saving lives."