Increase in drug-driving tests

THE NUMBER of incidents of suspected drug-driving has more than doubled to almost 2,000 over the last three years.

Data from the Medical Bureau of Road Safety (MBRS) shows that 1,867 drivers were tested for the presence of drugs last year, compared with 747 in 2005. The number of drivers who tested positive will not be known until the MBRS publishes its annual report later this year.

A motorist is tested for drugs following a Garda request, when a person suspected of being intoxicated shows no evidence of being over the alcohol limit.

The Government’s Road Safety Strategy calls for an expansion of the drug-driving testing programme and drug impairment education programmes for gardaí, doctors and nurses.

Because there is no reliable roadside test for drug impairment, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey plans to introduce provisions for “field impairment testing” so gardaí can identify someone who is intoxicated.

Earlier this year, the Road Safety Authority warned about the apparent increase in drivers consuming a number of different drugs, including alcohol.

Among the most commonly detected drugs in drivers are cannabinnoids, associated with reduced reaction times; benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety and panic attacks; and opiates.

According to the most recent figures available, 24 per cent of the 879 samples tested in 2006 led to a conviction.