More than 100 motorists caught driving under influence of drugs or alcohol during weekend

Chief superintendent Jane Humphries said the number detected as driving having taken drugs or alcohol was well above average and urged people to 'call out' this kind of behaviour if they see it this Christmas. File picture: Sam Boal/ Collins

Gardaí detected more than 100 motorists driving under the influence over the weekend, as they said there would be higher visibility from officers on roads around the country over the festive period.

Chief superintendent Jane Humphries said the number detected as driving having taken drugs or alcohol was well above average and urged people to “call out” this kind of behaviour if they see it this Christmas.

“Do not get into the car with them,” she said. “It is not acceptable to get into a car under the influence of drink or drugs. It is increasing your risk of collision, of killing somebody else. You must take responsibility for your driving.” 

It comes as gardaí aimed to drive home its safety message on what is one of the busiest periods of the year on Irish roads.

Chief Supt Humphries said during National Slowdown Day on Friday, they saw the majority of drivers being compliant but there were still more than 600 people caught speeding on the roads.

“That’s putting you, me and every road user at an increased risk,” she said.

What I'd like also to say is that there were a lot of excessive speeds on our lower speed roads. Those are roads that are at 50, 80, and 100 kilometres.

“And the reason I'm picking those out is because that is where the majority of our fatal and serious road traffic collisions are occurring. Those speeds are those speeds for a reason. The reason is because there are vulnerable people using those roads, either pedestrians or cyclists.” 

The senior garda said a key message was for everyone to get home safely this Christmas, as she urged people to take their time, slow down and not to allow themselves to get distracted.

“We want you to pay attention to the road and don’t drive while intoxicated,” she said. “We want you to get home safe and well to your families this Christmas.” 

So far this year, 170 people have died on Irish roads which is 10 fewer than the same time in 2023.

The fatalities so far this year include 33 pedestrians, 69 drivers, four e-scooter drivers/passengers, 17 motorcyclists and 11 pedal cyclists.

“It's still far, far too many people,” Chief Supt Humphries added.

“We have many, many families who will have a loved one and friend who will be missing at their table this Christmas. We do not want to see any more families going through that heartbreak at this time of the year.”