RSA: New drink-driving penalties 'proportionate'

The Road Safety Authority is rejecting claims that the new drink-driving regime sends out the wrong message.

Changes to drink-driving legislation come into force next month and will see the breath test limit being reduced.

Gardaí will also be given new powers under the new legislation including being able to impose three penalty points and an on-the-spot fine of €200 for motorists who are caught slightly above the new legal limit of 50 milligrams.

Chief Executive of the RSA Noel Brett said he believes the new penalties are "proportionate".