Triptyque replaced by 709 form to facilitate more traffic between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and encourage tourism.

1965 saw an easing of traffic regulations between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Motorists previously had to complete paperwork called a triptyque, a customs document permitting the temporary importation of a motor vehicle. In an effort to encourage tourism this will no longer be necessary for crossing the border. It is hoped that the relaxing of regulations will encourage tourism. The triptyque has been replaced by a new customs 709 form which is completed by motorists. While the red tape has not been abolished, it has been considerably diminished by the new regulations.

The Mayor of Bangor, CF Milligan was at Killeen customs post to inaugurate the new legislation, where he greeted a group of Dublin car hire executives. The report also features an English couple, Dave Lee and Catherine Williams, who are the first to use the new simplified form.

The meeting at the border was followed by a reception at the Ardmore Hotel in Newry. Managing Director of the Ardmore Hotel, Gerry Scallan, has been foremost in the effort to have the traffic regulation eased and spoke to Frank Hall about the move which he hopes will encourage a flourishing tourist trade.

This episode of 'Newsbeat' was broadcast on 1 April 1965. The reporter is Frank Hall.

'Newsbeat' was a half-hour feature programme presented by Frank Hall and ran for 7 years from September 1964 to June 1971. 'Newsbeat' went out from Monday to Friday on RTÉ television and reported on current affairs and issues of local interest from around Ireland. The final programme was broadcast on the 11 June, 1971.