Almost 700 drivers arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence during Garda operation 

Almost 700 drivers have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of an intoxicant since the beginning of An Garda Síochána’s Christmas and New Year Road Safety Enforcement Operation. 

This year's operation, which commenced on November 30 and will continue until 7am on January 4, focuses on the dangers of driving under the influence of an intoxicant, without a seatbelt, speeding or using a mobile phone while driving.

Gardaí said that in this period, at least 673 drivers have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of an intoxicant. 

Over 166 of these drivers were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.

Fixed charge notices issued by An Garda Síochána between December 1and December 28th, 2023 for key "lifesaver offences" include; in excess of 12,147 for driving in excess of the speed limits, 882 for use of mobile phones and 247 for non-compliance with seatbelts.

In the same period an Garda Síochána has conducted in excess of 3,714 Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) checkpoints.

To date, 181 people have lost their lives in road traffic collisions on Irish roads. 

This is 27 more deaths than at this time last year. 

There have been no fatalities over the past seven days. 

A spokesperson said: "An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to motorists to drive safely on our roads this Christmas and New Year, never drive under the influence of an intoxicant, reduce speed, always wear a seatbelt and never use a mobile phone while driving."