Consultation on Proposals to Modernise Northern Ireland's Drug Driving Laws

Every death and serious injury on our roads is one too many. Road traffic collisions remain a major cause of death and injury, with devastating consequences for victims, families, communities and emergency services. Research shows that driving after taking drugs can significantly impair a person's ability to drive safely, increasing the risk of collisions and causing lasting harm.

While drink driving continues to present a significant challenge, evidence suggests that drug driving is an increasing concern. The PSNI is detecting growing numbers of drivers who have consumed drugs, and the number of people killed or seriously injured in collisions involving drug-impaired drivers has increased over recent years.

The current legal framework for tackling drug driving in the North is based on proving impairment. This approach has changed little over many decades. As drug use patterns, technologies and enforcement methods have evolved, it is important that our legislation keeps pace and provides an effective framework for protecting all road users.

This consultation seeks views on a range of proposals to modernise the North’s drug driving laws. The measures include the creation of new offences linked to specified drug limits rather than just impairment.

Alongside the proposals being consulted on, the NI Assembly has agreed that several measures which support drug (and drink) driving enforcement should be progressed through amendments to the Justice Bill.  These are currently before the Assembly and will therefore not form part of this consultation.  These measures relate to preliminary testing by the PSNI.

I am committed to ensuring that the North has a robust and effective framework for tackling drug driving. The views received through this consultation will play an important role in shaping future legislation and helping us deliver safer roads for everyone.

Together, we can help create a safer road environment for all who live in, work in and visit the North. I therefore urge you to consider the proposals set out in this document and submit your response before the consultation closes. Your contribution matters and will help shape the future direction of drug driving policy here.

Liz Kimmins MLA

Minister for Infrastructure