Half of farmers against relaxing drink-driving law

More than half of farmers were opposed to a proposal, by TD Michael Healy-Rae, that drink-driving laws should be relaxed to allow rural people drink and drive.

An Irish Examiner poll of milk suppliers, linked with the ICMSA, found far from supporting the controversial proposal from the South Kerry TD and his brother Cllr Danny Healy-Rae, a majority of farmers did not support the call.

The survey found 56% disagreed or strongly disagreed with the Healy- Raes, although 43% broadly favoured some softening of drink-driving laws. Overall, just 18% strongly agreed rural drivers should be allowed drink after a few pints.