Drink-driving law - Gardaí and judiciary must agree

THERE is an urgent need to clear up the confusion surrounding recent drink-driving legislation, which has been branded “absurd and unfair”.

The law in question, involving strict penalties for those convicted of drink-driving, has been referred to the High Court to test its constitutionality.

Given the appalling carnage caused by drink-driving on our roads, it is vital for legislation in this area to be watertight.

It is also essential to ensure a level playing field exists where legislation could militate unfairly against certain drivers.

At issue is the question of retrospective penalties and the rights of drivers to apply for restoration of their licences after a period of the ban has been served.

On this issue, it is vital for gardaí and the judiciary to be singing from the same hymn sheet.