A large scale mandatory breath testing operation was carried out by An Garda Siochana across Dublin last night as part of Operation Artery.  The Mandatory Alcohol Testing (MAT) checkpoints were set up to target drunk drivers across the county and Gardai made one arrest.

Four one hour checkpoints were set up from 11.30pm last night at the Drumcondra Road Upper, the Naas Road/N7, Ringsend Rd/Pembroke St. and Conyngham Rd. A total of 888 vehicles went through the checkpoints where 302 people were tested as part of the initiative.

John Twomey, the Assistant Commisssioner of the Garda National Traffic believes that the checkpoints have sent out a strong message to the public.  Speaking about the operation Mr. Twomey said “I want to send a very strong message to all drivers and remind them that members of An Garda Síochána are out in force every night and day, all around the country, targeting intoxicated driving and other key life saver road offences. Never ever drink and drive.”