1,946 arrests for drink-driving

ACC Duncan McCausland says the figures are "frightening"

A total of 1,946 people have been arrested for drink or drug driving in NI this year.

The police made the announcement at the launch of operation Surge, the summer anti-drink drive and road safety operation, on Friday.

Assistant Chief Constable Duncan McCausland has described the figures as "frightening".

He said it was "unacceptable" that a "minority of people" still insisted on driving after taking alcohol or drugs.

"Sadly, police officers and our emergency service colleagues regularly witness the results of drinking and driving," he said.

"It kills, maims, wrecks families and communities, so I am appealing for all road users to consider the consequences of their actions."

Environment Minister Edwin Poots also gave his support to the operation Surge campaign.

"It is all too easy to take a leisurely drink and be tempted to drive home," he said.

"Take even one drink and drive and you will put lives at risk."