This article is from page 5 of the 2006-09-19 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 5 JPG
THE number of people arrested on suspicion of drink driving is threatening to spiral out of control – there has been a 70 per cent increase so far this year, when compared with last year.
A massive 333 people have been arrested for the alleged offence, up to yesterday (Monday) which compares with 196 during the same period last year.
Fourteen drivers were arrested over the weekend – eight in the Ennis/Shannon area, four in north Clare and one each in east Clare and west Clare.
The head of the Clare Garda Division Traffic Corps, Inspector Kevin Moynihan says despite repeated warnings, the message is not being taken on board.
“Quite a few people are being breath tested at mandatory checkpoints, but people are still trying it. They can be stopped anywhere at any checkpoint and we are warning people they are likely to be caught,” he said.
He is warning people travelling to work after drinking the night before to bear in mind mandatory checkpoints can be set up anywhere.
He said the crackdown on drink drivers will continue throughout the winter months and those caught will be prosecuted. He is urging people to obey the rules of the road.
“With the long winter nights coming in, people should take care on the roads,” added Inspector Moynihan.