Local MSP David Stewart, Labour, who is a long time road safety campaigner  is disappointed that there has been a rise in  drink drive statistics. The figures for Quarter 3 (1 April 2018 – 31 December 2018) in the Highlands & Islands Division has shown that for the same period in 2017/18 there were 294 drink drivers and for this period in 2018/19 there have been 309.

David Stewart said:

” In Scotland we reduced the amount of alcohol a driver could have in their blood to address this anti social  type of behaviour in our efforts to make our roads safer. Road safety groups and the Police have worked tirelessly to further enhance road safety and make our carriageways safer for all road users. However, the drink driver and for that matter the drug driver, seem to think they are above the law and continue to be a danger to themselves and more importantly others.

” It’s a cliché I know, but something has to give, something has to be done, but what?

“Education is key and I have suggested many times now that those convicted of drink or drug driving should undertake mandatory rehabilitation courses – Drink/Drug Driver Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS). Clearly there is a need for education with regards drink and drug driving. This is where these courses come in to enhance all that is currently being done.

“The course combines presentations, group exercises, group discussions and videos used in conjunction with a course workbook with various exercises to complete and is all geared to educate the convicted driver as to the error of their ways.

“Let’s face it, if the convicted driver is not referred to such a scheme, where are they to be educated as to the danger they pose to other road users and what is to stop them continuing to drink/drug drive once their ban has been completed.

“Another option I feel should be looked at is new cars being fitted with an ignition interlock device or breath alcohol ignition interlock device (IID or BAIID).

” Scotland has been at the forefront of road safety initiatives and has taken the lead in the UK with regards a reduced blood/alcohol level for drivers. Why don’t we go that step further and seriously consider the two options I have highlighted yet again?

Josh Harris, Director of Campaign at the Road Safety charity, BRAKE said

“Drink-driving is a scourge on our roads and it was great to see Scotland take steps to address this through the reduction of the drink-drive limit in 2014. We want to see the government go further and improve both the deterrent and post-offence framework for drink-driving. Research has shown that any amount of alcohol affects safe driving and we want to see Scotland continue to lead the way in minimising drink-drive risk in the UK.”