Industry group unveils drink-driving campaign

A new campaign is asking partygoers to appoint a designated driver to stay sober and drive people home safely over the Christmas.

Organised by Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society (MEAS), the scheme is in its second year and has the support of the Garda, the National Safety Council, the AA, the publican organisations (LVA and VFI), and other bodies in the drinks industry.

The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, welcomed the campaign. "Drink driving is dangerous and unacceptable. . . . This campaign highlights a very simple solution to the problem," he said.

MEAS chief executive  Ms Fionnuala Sheehan said: "Before heading out, whether it is to the pub, or to a friend's house, it is especially important that we plan how to get home safely. A simple, practical way is to designate a member of our group as the non-drinking driver."

MEAS also runs an annual competition for publicans to find the best programme to support designated drivers. This typically includes free non-alcoholic beverages for the driver, running private coaches and reduced taxi rates.