As part of the government’s efforts to increase awareness of road safety, mandatory drug testing has been introduced for drivers involved in serious collisions, reports RTE.
Currently, only drivers involved in road accidents are subject to mandatory alcohol tests.
Minister of State Jack Chambers said he was determined to change that.
A government minister has confirmed that new roadside equipment, which has been used by Gardaí for several months, enables drug testing.
“I have asked my officials in the Department of Transport as part of the legislative group to progress work on this so the necessary legislative changes can be drafted,” Mr Chambers said, reports RTE.
This issue is now expected to become a priority reform and will be discussed at the next Ministerial Committee on Road Safety.
“Drug driving is as serious an issue as drink driving and the legislation needs to reflect this. Drug drivers must face the full consequences of the law,” the Minister said, reports RTE.
Yesterday, Tánaiste Michael Martin said there was evidence of an increase in drug use by drivers and inconsistencies in current testing regulations.
Speaking to Colm Ó Mongáin on RTÉ Today, Mr Fagnan said there was “no doubt” that drug use was a contributing factor to road safety problems in Ireland.
“It’s a good deal more hidden than alcohol use, and it’s not just the classic illegal drugs,” he said, reports RTE.
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan has stated that the Government is “absolutely committed” to implementing the changes around mandatory drug testing, also speed limits on roads, “next year”, reports RTE.
“We have 83,000km of minor rural country roads and we have to change the signage on every one of those. That takes time to change the legislation, both for mandatory testing for drug abuse and for the speed limits but we’re absolutely committed to delivering that next year,” he added, reports RTE.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.