Rise in drink-driving figures

More than 1,000 people were detected for drink-driving

The numbers of people detected for drink-driving in Northern Ireland has significantly increased, the police have said.

Police detected 1,032 drivers for drink or drug-driving between April and June this year - a rise of 362 on the same period last year.

Almost one in four road deaths in the province are attributable to drink driving.

The statistics also show that during the three-month period, 1,973 drivers were detected for dangerous or careless driving, 6,510 for non-wearing of seatbelts and 6,988 for speeding.

Superintendent Ian Hamill said the rise in detections was evidence of a "robust and targeted enforcement policy".

He added: "Making Northern Ireland's roads safer for everyone is a priority for police.

It is disappointing that in three months from April to June more than 1,000 people decided to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking Ian Hamill PSNI

"Sadly 102 people have been killed on our roads so far this year. However, the number of people seriously injured is falling."

He said police were committed to tackling the issue of drink-driving through education and enforcement.

"The vast majority of people recognise that it is shameful and unacceptable behaviour which too often leads to tragedy and loss in families," he said.

"It is disappointing that in three months from April to June of this year more than 1,000 people decided to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking.

"That means, of course, 1,000 people who are now facing the fact that they will lose their licences, and, inevitably, in some cases their livelihoods.

"Drink, dangerous and careless driving along with speeding are killing people on our roads."