Number of drivers in North detected drink driving up 40%

The number of motorists caught drink driving in Northern Ireland over the Christmas and New Year period increased by 40 per cent compared with last year.

According to PSNI figures released on Friday, 396 people were arrested during its winter drink drive operation between November 27th and January 2nd. This is up from 282 during the same period in 2014-2015.

The youngest person detected by officers was 16 and the oldest was 83.

The figure of 396, 325 male and 71 female, included motorists unfit to drive, or who were unable or refused to give a sample.

It also includes individuals who were caught on more than one occasion.

The highest reading was 140mg, well above the legal limit of 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

Assistant chief constable Alan Todd said: "While we have seen a huge increase in detections, it's difficult to accept this situation as a success. We shouldn't be detecting anyone drink driving.

“It’s disappointing that despite our warnings, a minority of people completely disregarded the safety of themselves and others by continuing this shameful and incredibly dangerous practice.”

Mr Todd spoke of the devastation caused to families who lost a relative in a crash involving a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“Across Northern Ireland there are nearly 400 people who took the risk and they were caught,” he said.

“They are lucky to be looking forward to a court appearance where they will most likely lose their driving license for one or more years, be fined, and will have great difficulty in obtaining car insurance in the future.

“Many also risk losing their jobs or going to jail. The alternative consequences had they not been caught do not bear thinking about.

Stormont Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said drink driving has caused over 2,000 deaths and serious injuries since 2000.

A Road Traffic Amendment Bill passed by the Assembly earlier this week provides for lower drink drive limits, a new penalty regime and powers for roadside check-points.