Gardai will be out in force this weekend with checkpoints and officers on foot nationwide ahead of one of the busiest occasions of the year.
After a two year hiatus, most of the country will be out celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, revelling in the restriction-free fun.
On weekends like this, Gardai often warn drivers of one offence that could lose them their licence as thousands head out to enjoy the festivities.
Earlier this week, Gardai confirmed: “We will be doing checkpoints day and night throughout this festival period.
"I would appeal to those of you who are socialising and consuming alcohol to leave your car at home or designate a driver and remember you may still be over the limit the morning after.
"We must change the current trends we are seeing in road fatalities in 2022. Too many families have already lost loved ones this year.
"An Garda Síochána are pleading with people to stop taking risks, make the right decisions and never ever drive while under the influence of alcohol."
Recently a warning was published online by officers saying: ”If you are planning on having a drink, remember - alcohol & driving do not mix.
“Plan your transport home. A failed roadside test & subsequent conviction for intoxicated driving could cost you your licence.”
According to Irish law, the legal limit for fully licensed drivers is 50 milligrammes of alcohol per 100ml of blood.
The legal limit for professional and learner drivers is 20 milligrammes of alcohol per 100ml of blood.
The penalties for a learner, novice and professional drivers remain the same at three months disqualification from driving and a fine of €200.
It takes an hour to process one standard drink and experts warn that there’s no quick fix.
One standard drink includes half a pint of beer, stout or lager, or a small glass of wine (100ml), or a pub measure of spirits (35.5ml).
In 2021 alone, more than 8,000 fixed charge notices were issued for 'Driving While Intoxicated' according to garda figures.
