With Christmas approaching, An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority in Ireland are appealing to all road users to stay safe and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
A dedicated road traffic enforcement operation conducted by An Garda Síochána has been launched, running throughout the Christmas period until 5 January 2026.
There will be an increased presence on the roads to detect drink and drug drivers and also to deter key risk behaviours such as speeding, mobile phone use and non-wearing of seat belts.
According to a new survey from the Road Safety Authority, 12 per cent of drivers admitted to having driven after consuming alcohol in the past 12 months.
The survey found that the most common scenario for a driver to be on the road while potentially over the legal alcohol limit is after drinking in a pub/restaurant, or at home, and then driving on a rural road, with a slightly higher likelihood of this occurring over a weekend.
A smaller percentage of drivers (four per cent) admit to having driven after using illicit drugs over the past 12 months.
Up to the end of November, An Garda Síochána has detected nearly 8,000 drivers, Driving under the influence of an intoxicant (drugs or alcohol) and carried out over 93,000 checkpoints.
“We are appealing to all those that will be taking to the roads over the Christmas period to slow down, take extra care and to give your driving your full attention and never, ever drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs,” said Assistant Commissioner Catharina Gunne, Roads Policing and Community Engagement.
“Many people will be out socialising with colleagues, friends and family over the next few weeks. Please plan your ahead for your journey. Leave the car at home. Use taxis and public transport where possible to get home and avoid driving the following morning also.”
