Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 264: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda checkpoints established in the years 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011 to facilitate random breath checks on motorists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21753/11]

Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 265: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of random breath checks carried out on motorists in the years 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21754/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 264 and 265 together.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table shows the numbers of mandatory alcohol testing (MAT) checkpoints and roadside breath-tests conducted at such checkpoints for the years 2009 and 2010 and in 2011 up to 17 July.

An Garda Síochána carries out MAT checkpoints in conjunction with its ongoing enforcement of drink driving legislation, with specific initiatives carried out over the Christmas and New Year period and bank holiday weekends. The objective of the checkpoints is to increase the compliance culture among road users and detect incidents of alcohol impaired driving, thereby reducing road traffic fatalities.