Average of 15 learner drivers caught for drink-driving each month

An average of 15 learner drivers are caught drink-driving on Irish roads every month, according to latest figures.

A total of 731 learner drivers were caught over the limit by gardaí between 2020 and 2023.

So far in 2024, 19 learner drivers have been caught for drink-driving.

The Southern Garda Region, comprising Cork, Kerry and Limerick, had the highest number of drink-driving incidents involving learner drivers where 207 incidents or 28 percent of the offences occurred.

The Eastern Region was the next highest with 205 instances of drink-driving involving learner drivers. The Dublin Region accounted for 170 incidents which was 23 percent of the recorded offences.

The Northwestern Region saw the lowest number of drink-driving incidents recorded, where 149 or 20 percent of drink-driving offences were reported.

Lower alcohol limits apply to learner drivers. While a driver with a full licence commits an offence if they are found to have over 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, a learner or novice driver can be prosecuted with 20mg per 100ml.

The maximum penalty solely for drink driving is €5,000 or 6 months in prison or both. All drink-driving offences also result in disqualification from driving for a minimum of three months.

The details were released following a Dáil question by Deputy Catherine Murphy. 

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said: "Road traffic enforcement is an integral part of the day to day duties of all frontline Gardaí. On average 25% of roads policing enforcement and 75% of drug/drink driving checks are carried out by regular members".

The minister added that the budgetary provision for the recruitment of 800 - 1000 new Gardaí this year will both increase the number of frontline Gardaí and allow for the expansion of specialist units, including Roads Policing, as deemed necessary by the Garda Commissioner.