"Zero Tolerance" drink-drive limit comes into operation in Ireland

Professional drivers in the Republic of Ireland are now subject to a “zero tolerance” drink-drive limit.

The new rules came into force on 27 October as part of a raft of changes that see a reduction from 80mg/100ml to 50mg/100ml for the general driving population, and to 20mg/100ml for CV drivers, learners and newly qualified drivers.

The change has been welcomed by Alex Attwood, Northern Ireland’s Environment Minister, who announced a 20mg/100ml limit for professional drivers north of the border in September, which is due to come into force next year.

“These changes will bring drink drive limits in Ireland into line with those in most European countries,” he says. “I would remind all drivers that whatever the limit, the key message remains the same: your driving is impaired from the very first drink.”