Hauliers say leave drink and drug tests to gardaí

The Government has been accused of trying to make employers responsible for drink and drug testing drivers because under-resourced gardaí are struggling to do the job.

The Oireachtas transport committee heard there were question marks over the rationale behind the requirement, which is part of the Road Traffic Bill currently being drawn up.

Gerry McMahon, honorary secretary of the Irish Road Haulage Association, which opposes the plan, said it would be impractical and cumbersome on employers to implement.