First-Time Drink Drivers To Be Disqualified Under Proposed New Laws

Transport Minister Shane Ross will today propose to the cabinet new laws aimed at eradicating drink driving.

Since 2009, first-time drink drivers have received three penalty points and a fine but Minister Ross aims to amend this to a mandatory disqualification from driving.

This morning, Minister Ross told The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk that "there should be less discretion and leniency given to first time drink driving offenders".

Minister Ross will announce that he plans to bring legislation to cabinet next Tuesday meaning all drivers caught drink driving will be automatically disqualified.

Transport Minister Shane Ross tells #pknt there should be less discretion and leniency given to first time drink driving offenders
— Pat Kenny Newstalk (@PatKennyNT) January 5, 2017