Scores of motorists are set to challenge prosecutions for alleged drink-driving because of doubts over the validity of a newly introduced device for measuring intoxication.
The new gauge indicates drunkenness levels from a breath-test on an instant print-out and has been used on a pilot scheme in the west of the State.
But legal experts are challenging one of the figures thrown up by the test, and two cases have been referred to the High Court for a ruling - with many others pending.
Mr Aidan Crowley, a lawyer from Castlebar, Co Mayo, said today: "No solicitor is going to condone drink-driving, but at the same time if there is legislation in that area, it is important we ensure it stands up to make sure it is fair to all concerned".
The potential loophole challenge emerged as the Government pinpointed drunk-driving as one of the three main causes of accidents on the roads.
The Department of the Environment announced the intensification of a campaign to cut down the number of motoring deaths during the bank holiday weekend.
The October Holiday Campaign is part of a five-year government road safety strategy, which Minister of State Mr Bobby Molloy today claimed had cut road deaths by 12 per cent so far this year.
But he said: "Based on year-on-year figures, many more people are likely to die before the end of the year. These needless deaths can be prevented if road users act more responsibly". He added that driving is not a right but a privilege that could be taken away.
PA