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Motorists driving under the influence of drugs are set to be targeted by gardai under strict new road side testing.

Drivers who test positive for narcotics including cocaine, heroin or cannabis face a minimum of four years driving disqualification, a €5,000 fine and up to six months in prison.

Transport Minister Shane Ross announced the new drug driving provisions in the Road Traffic Act 2016 earlier today.

Officers can test motorists with simple saliva test

One of the key measures of the new legislation allows officers to test motorists they suspect of being under the influence of drugs on the road side with a simple saliva test.

The Medical Board of Road Safety has found that of the 3,020 specimens of blood and urine that it received in 2016, 24% confirmed positive for drugs other than alcohol.

(Image: Gareth Chaney Collins)

Of these, 91% were specimens from male drivers, most of whom were in the 17-44 year age range. Cannabis was the most prevalent drug detected, followed by benzodiazepines.

Speaking at the launch Minister Ross claimed the introduction of Preliminary Drug Testing is an important step in tackling drug driving.

He said: Speaking at the launch Minister Ross said the introduction of Preliminary Drug Testing is an important step in tackling drug driving.

He said: “Driving under the influence of drugs has been an offence in Ireland since 1961.

“It is estimated that drug driving is a factor in approximately one in ten fatal crashes. Drug driving not only puts the driver at risk but also passengers and others who share the road.

“The introduction of Preliminary Drug Testing now strengthens the ability of the Gardai to tackle the problem.

“This is just one step in a multi-faceted approach my Department and I are taking to tackle the recent increase in road fatalities.”

Assistant Commissioner Michael Finn of the Roads Policing and Major Event /Emergency Management, stated that: “There will be 86 drug screening devices located in Garda stations nationally and 50 more available for use at the roadside.

“Over time up to 150 devices will be available for use at the roadside. While the test will take longer to conduct than the roadside test for alcohol, the test is easy to carry out and within minutes will tell if a driver has drugs in their system.”

Professor Denis Cusack, was also anxious to allay the fears of anybody taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines: “Drivers with medical conditions should continue to take their prescribed medications in accordance with healthcare advice and medical fitness-to-drive guidelines.

“If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines under the advice of your doctor or pharmacist, and so long as those medicines don’t impair your driving, you have nothing to be concerned about. If you are in any doubt, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about your concerns.”