New laws to target the ‘significant issue’ of drug-driving

New road safety measures aimed at clamping down on drug-driving and closing a loophole in legislation covering the taking blood samples have been announced by Minister for Transport Paschal Donohoe.

Mr Donohoe said he signed-off on measures to allow blood samples to be taken from drivers rendered unconscious after a crash or who were too seriously injured to provide consent.

When the driver regains consciousness their consent will be requested for the use of the blood sample in any pending prosecution, and a refusal will be considered an offence.

Such an offence will carry penalties including a driving ban.

Mr Donohoe said research by the coroner’s office in Co Kildare had shown drug use by drivers was a factor in 10 per cent of cases over a ten-year period.

Mr Donohoe said gardaí have been given the power to ask drivers to perform a series of roadside coordination and balance tests, including finger to nose test, standing on one leg and walking a straight line.

Both the drug tests and the mandatory blood sample measures become effective immediately.

Further refinement of the drug testing system will be outlined in the next Road Traffic Bill which is to be published in the coming weeks.

Speaking on RTE Radio’s Morning Ireland programme Mr Donohoe said he was satisfied drug driving was a significant issue in road deaths.