A DONEGAL TD yesterday
accused Fianna Fail of breaking a pre-election
promise to a local group campaigning for compulsory
drink and drug testing of drivers involved in
accidents. Deputy Joe McHugh said a firm commitment
made by An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to the Public
Against Road Carnage group that his party would
implement these changes without delay if re-elected,
had now been reneged upon.
“A pre-election letter to PARC, from the Taoiseach
himself said: ‘Fianna Fail recognise the need to
introduce compulsory drink and drug testing for
drivers involved in accidents causing injury. If
re-elected we will ensure that these changes are
implemented without delay'," said Deputy McHugh.
“Yet, when Fine Gael introduced an amendment to the
Roads Bill that would provide for this important
road safety measure, Minister Noel Dempsey rejected
it and insisted he will not be making the change.
This morning in the Dáil, the Tánaiste, Brian Cowen,
confirmed that is not on the Government’s
legislative list," added Deputy McHugh.
He said the governing party had now reached "a new
low".
“It is well-known that Fianna Fail has no shame and
will say anything to gain power but to do this on
such a vital issue that has tragically affected so
many lives in Ireland is a new low.” |
