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08/12/2003
Christmas anti-drink driving campaign begins
Motorists are to be warned not to drink and drive over the Christmas holiday period in a series of nationwide television advertisements starting today.
Drink-drive deaths have fallen dramatically over the past 20 years. However, in 2002 there were an estimated 560 drink-drive fatalities - a 6% increase over 2001. The government spends £3 million each year on drink-drive related activity and our penalties are among the toughest in Europe.
The maximum penalties for driving or attempting to drive whilst above the legal limit or unfit through drink are six months imprisonment plus a fine of up to £5,000 and a ban for at least 12 months (three years if you're convicted twice in 10 years).
Road Safety Minister David Jamieson reminded motorists to stay sober when driving during Christmas and New Year and make sure they drive safely.
He said: "Drink drivers are still killing people. Last year, one in six deaths on our roads was drink-drive related. The vast majority of motorists know the dangers and obey the law - but a minority of irresponsible and reckless drivers are ignoring it.
"If you are going out and enjoying yourself over Christmas - don't turn your night into a nightmare - leave the car at home, and if you can't use public transport, designate a non-drinking driver. Remember that you could still be over the limit in the morning after a good
night out."
The television adverts will be broadcast from Monday 8 December 2003 until 1 January 2004.
(gmcg)
Drink-drive deaths have fallen dramatically over the past 20 years. However, in 2002 there were an estimated 560 drink-drive fatalities - a 6% increase over 2001. The government spends £3 million each year on drink-drive related activity and our penalties are among the toughest in Europe.
The maximum penalties for driving or attempting to drive whilst above the legal limit or unfit through drink are six months imprisonment plus a fine of up to £5,000 and a ban for at least 12 months (three years if you're convicted twice in 10 years).
Road Safety Minister David Jamieson reminded motorists to stay sober when driving during Christmas and New Year and make sure they drive safely.
He said: "Drink drivers are still killing people. Last year, one in six deaths on our roads was drink-drive related. The vast majority of motorists know the dangers and obey the law - but a minority of irresponsible and reckless drivers are ignoring it.
"If you are going out and enjoying yourself over Christmas - don't turn your night into a nightmare - leave the car at home, and if you can't use public transport, designate a non-drinking driver. Remember that you could still be over the limit in the morning after a good
night out."
The television adverts will be broadcast from Monday 8 December 2003 until 1 January 2004.
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
