Motorists face random breath-testing at checkpoints across the country today as a Garda drink-driving crackdown got under way last night.
Checkpoints were being established under Operation Surround, which began at midnight and runs until midnight on Monday.
Last night the Taoiseach called on motorists to drive safely over the weekend.
"I would urge all those who use our roads to exercise extra caution, particularly over the August bank holiday period when thousands of extra journeys will be made by car and road users travelling on unfamiliar roads," Mr Ahern said.
Random breath-testing, one of a number of new powers which came into place in July under the Road Traffic Act 2006, will be carried out at the checkpoints.
A Garda spokesman said: "What we are doing is targeting towns and urban areas throughout the whole of the country, with a specific emphasis obviously on licensed premises. The whole focus of this weekend is drink-driving but obviously any other offences that are detected will be dealt with."
An average of 344 people are detected drink-driving every week, with alcohol playing a factor in almost half of all road deaths.
"This weekend I would urge everyone to slow down, fasten safety belts and never ever drink and drive," said Minister of State for Transport, Pat the Cope Gallagher. "We should bear in mind that when we get behind the wheel, our lives, and those of other road users, depend on our behaviour.
Over the August bank holiday weekend last year, three people died in road crashes, and 12 people involved in collisions were arrested for drink-driving offences. On the same weekend in 2000, there were 12 deaths arising from nine fatal crashes.
The Irish Coast Guard joined calls for safety first this Bank holiday weekend urging anyone taking to the water to be extra vigilant.
Officials said there was a simple message for anyone going out to sea, swimming or involved in water sports — please use common sense and come back safe.
Swimmers and sailors were warned to be on the lookout for strong currents such as rip tides, high winds and squalls and cancel your trip if conditions are unsuitable. The Coast Guard also people not to mix alcohol and water sports.