The Government was today urged to resolve issues holding up the introduction of random breath-testing by the chief executive of MEAS (Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society) at the launch of its Christmas designated driver campaign.
"Bearing in mind that alcohol is estimated to be the primary cause of one third of all fatal road accidents, we must as a society ensure that people who drink, don't drive. Random breath testing by gardaí would greatly assist this move," added Ms Sheehan.
Meas is a drinks industry initiative to combat alcohol misuse and abuse.
Minister for Transport Martin Cullen today reiterated his key message that "if you drink, do not drive".
"Drink driving is unacceptable and it kills people. I would encourage people who want to drink as part of the Christmas festivities to designate one of their party as the non-drinking driver for the evening," said Mr Cullen.
Using the slogan "Drive Straight and Designate", the Meas campaign wants to get people who are socialising during the Christmas period to designate a member of their group who refrains from drinking alcohol so they can drive everyone home safely.
This is the third year Meas has organised a Christmas designated driver campaign. It will be supported by a national radio advertising campaign.
"Our message to Christmas revellers is simple. Before heading out, whether it is to the pub, or to a friend's house, everyone should plan how to get home safely. A simple, practical way is to designate one person as the non-drinking driver.
"And the job of that designated driver is to bring friends or colleagues home safely", Ms Sheehan added.