Sir - In response to Fintan Lambe (December 13th), I would like to clarify that the current "Designate Dessie" drink-driving campaign is sponsored by the drinks industry as a whole under the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (co-financed by the European Commission) and not by the Irish Vintners Association, as mentioned.
The designated driver campaign aims to encourage people to consider the option of taking it in turns not to drink alcohol in order to take the responsibility for driving while out socialising with friends over the festive period. By adopting this approach all of us will be accepting a greater degree of personal responsibility for our own safety and the safety of others.
Finally, on the question of paying for the "Designated Dessie's" soft drinks for the night, surely it would be a very small price for his or her nominating group to pay, knowing the peace of mind it will give them in relation to getting home. - Yours, etc.,
Pat Barry, Chairman, Social Affairs Committee, Drinks Industry Group of Ireland, Anglesea Road, Dublin 4.