The cabinet has today approved new legislation targeting drink-driving.

Currently, first-time offenders are not immediately disqualified. A fine is paid and the offending gets three penalty points and is back on the road, however Transport Minister Shane Ross said that this sends out the wrong road safety message.

Instead of penalty points, such drivers will get a three-month disqualification.

Shane Ross is hoping to pass the legislation through the Dáil and Seanad quickly, and is appealing to senators and TD’s not to amend it.