Drivers now face an automatic ban after drinking half a pint

Drivers who get behind the wheel after just half a pint will now face an automatic ban under strict new laws.

Controversial new legislation proposed by Transport Minister Shane Ross has finally passed in the Dáil following months of filibustering.

The legislation does not change the limits for alcohol consumption, at a blood alcohol level of 50mg for experienced drivers, but anyone found over this will now be put off the road for three months.

The limit is lower for learner drivers and professional drivers, at a blood alcohol level of 20mg. One standard drink is considered enough to put someone at risk of going over the limit, which includes a glass of beer, a small glass of wine or a pub measure of spirits.

In addition, the legislation will also introduce strict new laws aimed at learner drivers.

Unaccompanied learner drivers can now have their vehicle seized by gardaí and motorists who allow learner drivers to drive their vehicles unaccompanied will also face prosecution and a fine of up to €2,000.

The amendment to the law that deals with learner drivers is named after the Clancy family, who lost two members in a road traffic tragedy almost three years ago involving an unaccompanied learner driver.

Statement from Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson, Road Safety Authority (RSA) on passing of the Road Traffic (Amendment ) Bill 2017

As Chair of the RSA, I welcome the passing of the Road Traffic (Amendment ) Bill 2017 by both  Houses of the Oireachtas. The extent of cross party support for the Bill reflects a long standing commitment by the vast majority of public representatives to support laws that improve road safety.

Tough laws to police and deter killer behaviours like drink driving require societal consensus and acceptance to make a difference. I commend Gillian Treacy, Noel Clancy and the Road Victims Groups who are tireless advocates for safer roads. They know the terrible grief of losing a loved one in road crashes and devote enormous effort to ensure others do not experience the same loss.

I particularly want to acknowledge the generosity of the Treacy family who lost their beautiful child Ciaran in a drink driving crash. By sharing their compelling testimony in the RSA Crashed Lives TV campaign which is currently running they have made a major contribution and I believe have changed hearts and minds about  driving an alcohol.

For this law to be effective and save lives, it must be accompanied by strong visible and widespread enforcement by an Garda Síochána.

Enforcement statistics for the first six months of 2018 showed in excess of 4000 motorists arrested for driving under the influence. These numbers show that despite some improvement in driver behaviour over the years, there remains a stubborn cohort of people to continue with high risk behaviour, endangering themselves and other road users.

I would appeal to road users to be especially careful on the roads over these summer months and help us reduce road traffic fatalities and serious injuries. Tags: Парламент, пдд