New research has shown that 10% of Irish motorists have driven a vehicle after consuming alcohol in the past 12 months.

The research, commissioned by the Road Safety Authority, surveyed over 1,000 people.

The research shows that 16% of those under 24 have admitted to drinking and driving in the past 12 months, up from 7% in 2015 and 4% in 2014.

It also shows that the vast majority (73%) of Irish drivers claim that having no alcohol before driving is the only way to be safe.

Speaking to RTÉ News at the launch of a joint road safety appeal by the Road Safety Authority and An Garda Síochana, RSA chief executive Moyagh Murdock said they were "alarmed" by the research.

Ninety-five people have died on Irish roads so far this year.

Chief superintendent Aidan Reid said 16 people were arrested for driving under the influence yesterday alone.

He said on average 740 people have been arrested every month in 2017 for drink driving.

He appealed to people to take care on the roads this August Bank Holiday weekend.