SUMMER ANTI-DRINK DRIVE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED

THE Department of Environment and the RUC have jointly launched a road safety campaign, targeted at preventing drinking and driving over the summer.

The basis for the campaign was arrived at by analyse of statistics, which show that three quarters of all fatal drink drive crashes are caused by 17-34 year old men. The timing of the campaign is also poignant as July is statistically the worst month for drink drive deaths and serious injuries on Northern Ireland’s roads.

Launching the campaign Environment Minister Mr Sam Foster said: “I don’t want to be a killjoy when it comes to young men enjoying the summer, but I encourage them to drive responsibly. Drink and drive and you risk your life, you risk killing or maiming others.

“Public attitudes to drink driving have improved over the past 30 years and drink driving is no longer socially acceptable. However, despite campaign after campaign there are still those who persist in driving after having consumed alcohol.

“Remember, if you get behind the wheel after having consumed alcohol you become a potential killer. Could you live with the shame?”

Superintendent Ian Hamill, Head of Road Policing with the RUC warned that no matter what other pressures are placed on police resources over the summer, catching motorists who drink and drive and bringing them before the courts remains a priority.

Mr Hamill said: “We are not out to spoil anyone’s fun. We are aware people look forward to the summer with its more relaxed atmosphere of trips, parties, picnics and barbecues, and, of course, the vast majority of drivers and other road users have taken on board the message about not drinking and driving.

“But, clearly there is a minority, which chooses not to listen to all the advice that has been given over the years. We are committed to educating the driving public. However, let there be no mistake about it we are also committed to enforcing the drink-driving laws rigorously.”

(AMcE)