No technology available to conduct drug tests on motorists

Minister for Transport Martin Cullen has said the Government will introduce technology to test motorists for drug-driving as soon as it is available.

Earlier today, the head of the Garda Traffic Corps, Assistant Commissioner Eddie Rock, said the gardaí are currently relying on their own judgement due to the lack of any machine to conduct such tests.

Studies have found traces of illegal and prescription drugs in samples given by many motorists tested for drink-driving, but these cannot be used to bring prosecutions.

Campaigners are demanding action to crack down on driving while under the influence of drugs, but Mr Rock said today that he knew of no device to conduct roadside drug tests.

Mr Cullen, meanwhile, said as soon as the Government finds a system that can work with confidence, it will be introduced as soon as possible.

"What we're talking about is a much more simplified, random method of having a system in place to drug-test people on the side of the road," he said.

"No country has cracked that yet, but there's an absolute international will to see this achieved and Ireland is very much involved in that process."