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PSNI crackdown sees increase in number of drink-drivers detected

The PSNI launched a crackdown on drink drivers towards the end of last month and have already seen a sharp increase in the amount of drink-drivers detected compared with the same period last year								Picture by Colm Lenaghan, Pacemaker
The PSNI launched a crackdown on drink drivers towards the end of last month and have already seen a sharp increase in the amount of drink-drivers detected compared with the same period last year Picture by Colm Lenaghan, Pacemaker The PSNI launched a crackdown on drink drivers towards the end of last month and have already seen a sharp increase in the amount of drink-drivers detected compared with the same period last year Picture by Colm Lenaghan, Pacemaker

THERE has been a spike in the number of drink-drivers detected during the first two weeks of a police crackdown compared to last year.

Some 104 motorists were caught between November 26 and December 9 – 31 more than for the same period for 2014, according to figures released by the PSNI on Friday.

The statistics include drivers who were unfit to be behind the wheel or who were unable or refused to provide a sample.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said: “While we have tested and detected more people, it’s difficult to accept this situation as a success. We shouldn’t be detecting anyone drink-driving.

“It’s disappointing that despite our warnings, there are still people who completely disregard the safety of themselves and others by continuing this shameful and incredibly dangerous practice.”

So far, 70 people have been killed on Northern Ireland’s roads this year.

Mr Todd added: “Every year across Northern Ireland, drinking and driving kills, maims and wrecks families.

“Police will not tolerate people who insist on driving after having taken drugs or drink.

“ We are again appealing for all motorists to consider the consequences of their actions.

“Think about the consequences to yourself and your family of being involved in a serious collision.

“How would you feel if your actions resulted in you or one of your family being paralysed?

“How would you feel if some innocent person was killed?

“Particularly, as we approach one of the busiest weekends for socialising, people need to think ahead and plan how to get home with just as much care as they put into planning where to go and what to wear.

“People out for the night should get a lift home with a non-drinking friend or family member, or a licensed taxi driver.”

Anyone who is caught drink-driving faces losing their licence for a least a year and a hefty fine, police have warned.