New Garda roadside drug testing for drivers to begin this month

New roadside preliminary drug testing will be introduced on Wednesday April 12, and will allow for oral fluid from drivers to be tested for drugs.

The introduction of the new form of testing will coincide with a large Garda operation over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Speaking about the introduction of the new testing and the Bank Holiday weekend operation, Assistant Commissioner Michael Finn said: “Many drug drivers delude themselves into thinking they can be better drivers under the influence of certain drugs and imagine themselves at low risk of collision.

“This is simply not true, drug-driving is one of the most dangerous offences that can be committed on our roads and we must remind all drivers of this.

“The introduction of preliminary drug testing on the 12th April will give An Garda Síochana the same tools to tackle drug driving as are in place to tackle drink driving.

“I have no doubt that more drug drivers will be apprehended as a result of this new power.

The new testing system will allow the Gardai to establish checkpoints for testing drivers for drugs with similar powers to existing alcohol testing checkpoints. 

This system will allow Gardaí to test a driver’s saliva for cannabis, cocaine, opiates (for example, heroin, morphine) and benzodiazepines (for example, Valium). 

Drivers with medical conditions should continue to take their prescribed medications in accordance with healthcare advice and medical fitness-to-drive guidelines, which can be viewed at http://www.rsa.ie/RSA/Licensed-Drivers/Safe-driving/Medical-Issues/ .

But be aware of how the drugs you are taking might affect your ability to drive.

If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines under the advice of your GP 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 GP or pharmacist about your concerns.

A statutory medical exemption certificate is allowed for in the law for people who have been prescribed medicinal cannabinoids (medicinal marijuana). If this applies to you, you should carry the medical certificate with you while driving.

To date this year, 47 people have been killed on Irish roads, an increase of 4 when compared to the same period last year.