Gardaí on 'problem' with 'non-conforming' number plates in Kilkenny

Gardaí in Kilkenny have issued a statement concerning the growing number of modified number plates they are encountering on the roads.

"As anyone who uses the roads will have noticed, there are a huge amount of drivers with what we call non-conforming number plates," a garda spokesperson said.

"Some may have so called 'German' style, others a raised gel number but most concerning are the more recent tinted plates.

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"These are extremely hard to read at night and some may have an anti infra red coating aimed to hinder ANPR.

"Why is this a problem? Well basically because our job necessitates that we can read your plate, easily. This is to curb disqualified drivers, speeding drivers and criminals who we try to hinder.
 
"An illegible plate due to tint, excessively small font or ridiculous italics WILL get you stopped and you may face court. A stealth number plate is a plate designed to make it harder for automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems to read the registration. This can be done in a few ways, such as infrared blockers and/or a coating that prevents ANPR cameras using infrared light to capture the plate clearly'
 
"The rules dealing with vehicle registration plates are in SI 318/92 Vehicle Registration and Taxation Regulations 1992, as amended. This law outlines the format, dimensions and technical specifications that must be displayed on registered vehicles.
 
"The main requirements on the format of vehicle registration plates are:
- The registration number, which consists of numbers and letters, must be black on a white reflective background.
- The name of the county of registration must be in Irish, (for example, Baile Átha Cliath).
- The EU flag and the letters "IRL" must be placed on the left-hand side of the plate. The flag shows 12 gold stars in a circle, with the letters "IRL" in white underneath it, all on a blue reflective background.
- No other numbers, letters, or marks, should appear on your registration plate."

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