Altar wine may push priests over drink-driving limit

The well-known Catholic priest Fr Brian D'Arcy has reportedly expressed concerns that a planned reduction in drink-driving limits could affect the work of him and his colleagues.

Reports this morning say Fr D'Arcy has pointed out that priests have to drink alcoholic altar wine during Mass and many could end up over the limit if they celebrate several Masses in one day.

He says priests often have to drive from church to church after drinking from the chalice and can also be called out on short notice to visit an ill or dying person.

Vatican rules do not allow the use of non-alcoholic wine during Mass, even where alcoholic priests are involved.