Transport is the real problem — not the drink limit

IT IS interesting to note that a number of Fianna Fáil TDs who are opposed to Transport Minister Noel Dempsey’s plan to lower the drink-driving limit cite the impact this change would have on older people living in isolated rural areas.

One deputy described them on national radio as the “forgotten people” and said the new proposals, if implemented, would add to rural isolation. It is encouraging that some TDs are not ignoring the plight of many older people in rural Ireland, especially those who do not drive. However, the key issue that needs to be addressed to help these people is not a protection of the existing drink-driving limits, but the provision of a proper rural transport infrastructure.

Without adequate rural transport these people are stranded. Certainly there may be some older people who would like to use rural transport to get to their local pub for a pint and the social interaction that comes with it. However, there are many more who need transport to get to the post office to collect their pension, to get to their local GP’s surgery for an appointment, and to their local village or town to do their weekly shopping.