Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

On this the House is ad idem. I very much welcome the results of the survey from the Road Safety Authority, which shows the profound change over a period of years in public opinion. The voices in this House which have argued for a reduction in the alcohol limit have been proved to be in tune with public opinion. Unfortunately, there are the likes of Deputy Mattie McGrath in this world who do not want change and have articulated a view that one can drink and drive. That is no longer acceptable.

Will the Minister continue, with the Road Safety Authority, to provide a budget particularly for bringing about awareness of the effects of drink on people? The key point is that no matter how low the levels of drink, it can affect how people drive.

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