Dempsey: I’d prefer tougher sanctions

TRANSPORT Minister Noel Dempsey admits he would have preferred to introduce tougher sanctions for those who break the proposed new drink-drive limit.

Legislation is expected to be passed by next summer that will reduce the limit for experienced drivers from 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood to 50mg.

But a number of Fianna Fáil backbenchers threatened to revolt if Mr Dempsey imposed driving bans on those who breached the new limit.