Although his latest Bill that will see first time Drink Driving offenders being banned from driving is making its way through the Dail, the Minister for Transport Shane Ross has angered many by admitting that he did Indeed in fact get behind the wheel whilst under the influence of alcohol.
Mr Ross who is hoping the new legislation will be introduced soon has received a backlash of criticism after he revealed that he has in the past driven a vehicle under the influence even though he knew of the dangers involved.
With many questioning the introduction of the new law the Transport Minister has been labeled as a hypocrite given that he is more than happy to severely punish those for a mistake that he has also openly committed in the past.
Speaking about his wrong doings in the past Mr Ross said: “It was a long time ago but it was part of the culture 30 and 40 years ago.”
“People, very regrettably did drink and drive and I certainly would have done it – it would be dishonest to say that I didn’t.”
“I obviously regret it and I don’t want other people to do it now that I realise the dangers of it.”
“We’re much more enlightened now than we were then.”
Mr Ross, who also revealed that he gave up drinking 30 years ago, said the new laws, would see deaths on Irish roads dramatically reduced.