Finian McGrath has issued an apology to families and victims of drink driving incidents.
The Minister of State for Disability Issues said that Gardaí were involved in political policing and were over the top in enforcing new drink driving laws.
Minister McGrath claimed he'd received complaints from people being breathalysed in the middle of the day.
He has since withdrawn the comments.
Of course I’ve total confidence in An Garda Síochána. I work with them each day and I’ve a right to raise any concerns our citizens may have.
— Finian McGrath (@Finian_McGrath) March 31, 2019
Gardaí estimate 12 per cent of drink driving arrests occur between 8am and 2pm.
Finian McGrath released the following statement this evening:
“ I am aware that my comments regarding the Gardaí and drink driving have caused hurt to families and victims who continue to suffer the consequences of drink driving. It was never my intention to cause pain and I wish to unreservedly apologise to them and also to our Gardaí.
Families and victims suffering the aftermath of drink driving have always been my priority. I voted for and fully support the legislation which automatically disqualifies any motorist found to have consumed alcohol. I also supported the Government Minister who brought this vital legislation forward even though he was criticised from some quarters.
I will continue to support all road safety initiatives and measures.”
