About 320 people lost their lives in drink-related crashes on Irish roads during the past five years, according to the National Safety Council. Many of those died during the Christmas period and their passing brought trauma and heartbreak to their families and friends. The continuing high incidence of drink driving reflects major problems involving social behaviour and law enforcement in this State. While behavioural patters and public attitudes have gradually altered, major problems still exist. Too many motorists still drink and drive, in spite of a succession of publicity campaigns. And road-traffic laws relating to alcohol consumption are weak and poorly enforced.
A new Road Traffic Bill, designed to address some of these problems, will finally come before the Dβil today. The legislation was promised by the Government three years ago as part of an urgent, comprehensive road-safety strategy involving the introduction of penalty points for motoring offences and a computerised enforcement system. But it has been bedevilled by delays. A commitment to random breath testing for alcohol was dropped in favour of selective testing involving an accident or traffic offence. An accurate register of drivers has not been established. And a new computer system required to operate the strategy has not been purchased.
In an attempt to reduce the number of road deaths, the Garda S∅ochβna will embark on high-profile road-traffic enforcement measures this Christmas. And their efforts will probably be reflected in a surge of prosecutions. During the last August bank holiday weekend, a similar exercise saw a rise of 67 per cent in those charged with drunk driving while the number charged with speeding offences more than doubled to 4,203. Special Garda campaigns save lives and make the roads safer. But their sporadic nature reinforces a belief by some motorists that they can get away with breaking the law at other times. Unfortunately, we do not have a dedicated traffic corps like other European countries. And an active Garda presence on our roads is the exception, rather than the rule. More resources are needed if the traffic laws are to be consistently applied.
The National Safety Council's drink-driving campaign is to be welcomed. But motorists must also slow down and wear their safety belts if the death rate is to be reduced.