Majority of motorists support 'naming and shaming' drink drivers, poll finds
More than two-thirds of Irish motorists believe that those found guilty of drink-driving should have their names published on a live register.
In an AA Membership and Motor Insurance survey of over 11,000 motorists, 44.92% of drivers said they “strongly supported” the proposal, with a further 22.59% being “somewhat” supportive.
Among the main reasons for supporting the idea was the belief that the risk of being “named and shamed” would further discourage people from driving while over the legal limit.
Despite the high level of support for such an initiative, over 48% of drivers said that such a change would have no effect on their driving behaviour, many of them stating that this was because they would never drink and drive.
Commenting on the findings Conor Faughnan, Director of Consumer Affairs at The AA, stated “Drinking and driving is a reckless, shameful behaviour that should be part of Ireland’s past and not our future.
“Motorists have consistently supported strong enforcement and strong sanctions for the offence. Sadly though it is clear that there are people who have not got the message. It is a tragic Irish problem that hasn’t gone away.”
If a live register for drink-drivers was introduced, older drivers appear to be the most likely group to see their driving habits changed.
More than 30% of drivers over the age of 56 admitted this system would have at least a “moderate effect” on their behaviour.
