Survey shows that majority of Irish motorists are in favour of ‘naming and shaming’ drunk drivers

Thoughts?

68% of Irish motorists believe that those found guilty of drink-driving offences should have their names published on a live register. In an AA Membership and Motor Insurance survey of over 11,000 motorists, 44.92% of drivers said they “strongly supported” the proposal, with a further 22.59% being “somewhat” supportive. Among the main reasons for supporting the idea was the belief that the risk of being ‘named and shamed’ would further discourage people from driving while over the legal limit. Despite the high level of support for such an initiative, over 48% of drivers admitted that such a change would have no effect on their driving behaviour. However, many of those who said the change would have no impact on their driving stated that this was because they would never drink and drive. Commenting on the findings Conor Faughnan, Director of Consumer Affairs at The AA, stated “Drinking and driving is a reckless, shameful behaviour that should be part of Ireland’s past and not our future. Motorists have consistently supported strong enforcement and strong sanctions for the offence. Sadly though it is clear that there are people who have not got the message. It is a tragic Irish problem that hasn’t gone away.” While increased efforts have been made in recent years to highlight the risks of drink-driving, the AA survey suggests that some drivers may still be taking the risk of driving while over the legal limit of 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood (0.05). Over 19% of those asked said the risk of being ‘named and shamed’ would have a major impact on their driving habits.