Drink-drive permit plan ‘grossly irresponsible’

Alan Shatter said it was “grossly irresponsible” for politicians to encourage drivers to exceed the alcohol limit.

The justice minister, responding to calls from Kerry County Council for drink-driving permits for rural motorists, was supported by Transport Minister Leo Varadkar and Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan.

Speaking at a briefing in Dublin Castle held by Tispol, the European Police Network, Mr Shatter said politicians should not contradict road safety rules for their own “self promotion”.