The measures require Gardai to conduct mandatory testing of drivers for alcohol at the scene of a crash where someone has been injured, or of a driver who has been injured and removed to hospital.
Noel Brett of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) says 'this measure is another important step towards removing the scourge of drink driving from our roads.' He believes it will save many lives and prevent many serious injuries.
He has praised the public for their change in attitudes and behaviour over the past decade as drinking and driving is now viewed by most people as anti social behaviour. Offenders risk a hefty fine and the loss of their driving licence for a length period if prosecuted.
The RSA is also appealing to road users in advance of the June Bank Holiday weekend to take extra care when using the roads and to also keep an eye out for farming machinery.
A total of 53 people have been killed and 116 seriously injured in June Bank Holiday crashes between 2000 and 2010. So far, 77 people have died on the roads to date this year, a decrease of 11 on the same period last year.
