Clubbers targeted in drink-drive campaign
Revellers in rural night-spots will be targeted in an Europe-wide drink-driving blitz tomorrow night.
Road Safety Authority (RSA) volunteers will be breathalysing young designated drivers to promote responsible behaviour behind the wheel.
Nightclubbers in Fermoy, Co Cork; Castlebar, Co Mayo; Naas, Co Kildare; Ennis, Co Clare; and Letterkenny, Co Donegal, will be urged to take part.
The initiative – called EU Night Without Accident (ENWA) – will take place in another 180 nightclubs in 20 European countries at the same time.
Road safety chief Noel Brett said the initiative was a great success last year, with the majority of young people demonstrating positive attitudes to not drinking and driving.
Of 64 revellers checked at three Cork nightclubs, 89% were safe to drive.
“This year we are urging everyone planning a night out on the town to be equally responsible,” he said.
“Don’t get behind the wheel of the car if you have been drinking. Look for an alternative mode of transport.
“Remember, just one drink impairs driving. So let’s make sure that this weekend, and every weekend, is free from drink-driving and free from collisions on our roads.”
The initiative will be run by volunteers who will encourage revellers entering nightclubs to identify a designated driver for the night who is given a wristband.
When leaving the night-spot, the motorist is invited to be voluntarily breathalysed to see if they are alcohol free.
A RSA spokeswoman said with urban areas having greater access to public transport, the authority felt rural areas would benefit more from the scheme.
“ENWA is about young adults taking responsibility for their actions with their peers,” she added.
“If a scenario happens where a driver is over the legal alcohol limit they will be advised not to drive because of the legal and safety implications.”
