Gardaí to be given powers to catch drug drivers

GARDAÍ are to be given powers to help secure convictions for drug driving under a new Road Traffic Bill to be published shortly.

Transport Minister Noel Dempsey confirmed yesterday the Government is to press ahead with the controversial bill which will also lower the current drink- driving limit, despite strong opposition from vintner groups and some TDs.

Addressing a seminar hosted by the Road Safety Authority and the European Transport Safety Council in Dublin, Mr Dempsey said the proposed legislation will include provisions for preliminary impairment testing to allow gardaí form an opinion that a motorist is intoxicated due to drugs.