Nine arrested for drink driving under ‘Operation Surround’

More than 1,600 drivers were breath tested overnight and nine arrests made as part of a major Garda operation to clamp down on drink driving over the long weekend.

Nominated towns were surrounded around the country and mandatory alcohol testing checkpoints were set up between 12.30am and 1.30am, aiming to intercept intoxicated drivers.

A total of 2,853 vehicles passed through the checkpoints in the hour-long period, with 1,613 breath tests carried out.

Nine drivers were found to be over the limit, and were arrested.

Speaking about "Operation Surround", assistant commissioner John Twomey of the Garda National Traffic Bureau said people who consume alcohol before driving are behaving "in a totally irresponsible manner".

A total of 1,926 motorists were arrested in the first three months of this year on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

“Drink driving is totally unacceptable and we will continue to intensively target these selfish drivers who think that it won’t affect their, or others safety on the road,” he said.

“Even if you don’t meet a checkpoint, you could still be breath tested if you run a red light, enter a bus lane, speed, or if you’re involved in a road traffic collision.

“Never take the chance, it could prove very costly… the least of which are penalty points, a fine or the loss of your licence. If you’re drinking alcohol, forget about driving.”