Irish Govt could permit moderate drunk driving in rural areas

Looks like the Government of Ireland is making certain considerations for senior residents who visit pubs on the outskirts of their residential areas. Danny Healy-Rae, Councilor of County Kerry has stated that these citizens need to socialize but fear the prospect of losing their driving licenses in the bargain. To counter these constraints, the Irish Government is contemplating putting forth a motion that would allow some Irish citizens to drive even after consuming two to three drinks.

Currently Ireland’s measures against drunk driving stipulate a maximum amount of .05 percent in the blood stream while this limit is at .08 in most states across the US. It was noticed, that seniors fearing getting on the wrong side of the law, preferred to stay home instead of being out socializing with village elders and friends. This was primarily due to lack of public transport or any other suitable means of transportation to get home after consuming alcohol. Healy-Ray stated that the motion would consider some Irish to drive after two to three drinks and would be limited to some people in certain specific areas.

This view is not endorsed by Mayor of Kerry. Alcohol Action Ireland also scuttled the view due to the fact that this could put lives of drivers and other members of the community in a grave risk of both life and limb. Healy-Rae’s motion was however passed in a local council meet winning by a vote of five to three. Healy-Rae has now approached the Minister of Justice for due consideration.