Ulster Unionist MLA for North Down and Northern Ireland Policing Board member Leslie Cree has welcomed the drop in drink-driving detections over the Christmas period. PSNI figures revealed that there were 414 detections out of 5,780 road side tests, which amounted to a 13% decrease from last year’s figures.

“I welcome the decrease in detections for drink-driving and commend those responsible motorists who obey the law and refrain from drink driving - making Northern Ireland’s roads safer.

“However, I am still disappointed that over 400 motorists were caught drink-driving over the Christmas period. This cavalier attitude is simply unacceptable and unfortunately does result in death and serious injury. I am disappointed that there are people in Northern Ireland who are driving on our roads today who consider themselves to be above the law.

“Recent figures showed that around one fifth of deaths on Northern Ireland’s roads are caused by drink-driving or driving while under the influence of drugs. It is clear that alcohol affects your judgement and the speed of your reactions.

“We must continue to drive this message home - you simply must not get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or taking drugs.”