57 officers caught drink-driving

Fifty seven police officers have been convicted of drink-driving in Northern Ireland over the last five years.

The figures were released in an answer to a parliamentary question asked by DUP Upper Bann MP David Simpson.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Leighton said officers convicted of drink driving would be dealt with robustly.

"(They) will go through a court case, as with any other person, and that will happen first, then they will appear before a discipline hearing," he said.

"That misconduct hearing will have several sanctions available to it ranging from dismissal down to a caution.

"But there are other penalties, such as reduction in rank or severe fines, which can be imposed."

The officer could also be required to resign which, he said, was a slightly lesser penalty than dismissal.