Local police have warned those who continue to get behind the wheel of a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs that it will not be tolerated.
The warning comes after provisional figures show 31 people were arrested for drink/drug driving related offences across C District in September alone.
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Alcohol and You was launched recently at the Downshire Civic Centre and is an interagency programme dealing with alcohol issues and dependency and is run by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.[/caption]
A total of 13 people were arrested last weekend alone and a further six were arrested this weekend.
Superintendent Brian Kee said: “It is still shocking and extremely disappointing that despite all of the warnings, there are still people who disregard the safety of themselves and others by continuing to drink or take drugs and then drive.
“We will continue to focus on those who are putting themselves and others at risk. We will seek detections and prosecutions at every opportunity. We know the vast majority of right thinking people do realise that drink or drug driving is shameful and unacceptable but clearly there is still an irresponsible minority who ignore all advice and warnings.
“These people risk killing or injuring themselves, their family, friends and other innocent road users.
“We would like to thank those in our community who report instances of drink or drug driving and we encourage anyone who believes they spot an offender to report it immediately.
“The consequences of drink or drug driving can be life shattering. Think about the consequences to yourself and your family of being involved in a serious collision. How would you feel if your selfish actions resulted in a serious, life changing injury to yourself, a family member or another innocent person? What if you killed someone?
“The message here is a very simple one and we want local people to take heed…
“NEVER, EVER, DRINK OR TAKE DRUGS AND DRIVE.”]]>
