Firms to carry out drug tests on drivers

Employers are to be made responsible for drink and drug testing staff who drive for them under tough new laws being drawn up.

Officials say the legislation is primarily aimed at larger transport companies carrying passengers or using heavy goods lorries, but they have admitted they are also exploring how it might apply to small firms and single vehicle operators.

The plan — driven by Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann —has come under fire from members of the Oireachtas Transport Committee, who are concerned it is impractical and will place an unfair administrative and financial burden on private firms.