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Drink drivers to be automatically offered rehabilitation course

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Drink Driving

BBC News NI reports:

From Monday 28th June 2021, any individual convicted of a drink driving offence in Northern Ireland will be automatically given the opportunity to undertake rehabilitation training. Completion of this course will result in the individual’s disqualification period being reduced by up to 25%.

Previously referral to the course was at the discretion of the court. A change in the law will now make referral automatic, after which it will be for the individual to decide whether they wish to complete the training.

Commenting on the law change, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon stated “The challenge to curb drink driving is not only about enforcement, it is also about education. I want to make sure people who are convicted of drink driving learn from their experience and, crucially, do not go on to offend again.”

PSNI Chief Constable Simon Byrne stated “This automatic referral scheme for convicted drink drivers will be a positive step towards changing attitudes and behaviour.”

Any person convicted of drink driving faces a mandatory disqualification from driving for a minimum of 12 months, which can be reduced to a minimum of 9 months upon completion of the course. Following the disqualification period, re-sitting a driving test is also mandatory.

If you require legal advice in relation to drink driving or any other motoring offence please contact us for a free initial consultation.


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