As part of Operation Artery Gardai have conducted a number of Super MAT (Mandatory Alcohol Testing) checkpoints overnight in the Dublin area.
The emphasis of these checkpoints was to target intoxicated driving through the use of Mandatory Alcohol Testing for the duration of the MAT checkpoint. In addition to intoxicated driving, general road offences were also targeted, including use of seatbelts, vehicle lighting, tyre condition, driving licences, insurance, NCT and road tax.
Four separate Super MAT one hour checkpoints occurred simultaneously between the hours of 23.30hrs on the 11th January and 00.30hrs on 12th January in various locations around Dublin City.
The locations include Drumcondra Road Upper, the Naas Rd/N7, Ringsend Rd/Pembroke St. and Conyngham Rd.
During these checkpoints a total of 888 Vehicles went through. 302 people were breath tested and one arrest was made. There were also 10 general detections for Road Traffic Offences.
Assistant Commissioner John Twomey, Garda National Traffic Bureau, added:
Last night and early this morning we ran a series of highly visible checkpoints around the Dublin area targeting intoxicated driving and other road traffic offences. I would like to thank motorists for their cooperation during these checkpoints and as the figures show the vast majority of people tested were compliant with the legislation.
I want to also send a very strong message to all drivers and remind them that members of An Garda Síochána are out in force every night and day, all around the country, targeting intoxicated driving and other key life saver road offences. Never ever drink and drive.
