Wednesday 13th August 2008
Slashing adult drink-drive limits is back on the agenda as government agencies take a fresh look at wiping out alcohol-related harm.
The Health Ministry's influential drug policy team has recommended that the Transport Ministry evaluate lowering drivers' blood-alcohol limits.
Though short on details, the Health Ministry's National Alcohol Action Plan, unveiled yesterday, outlines a proposed Government blueprint for tackling the ill effects of a boozing culture.
"It is clear from the way New Zealanders consume alcohol and the harms that result, that we need to make real and enduring changes," it says.
The Government announced last week legislation to introduce a zero-alcohol limit for drivers under 20 who do not hold a full licence. It has so far refused to adopt harsher measures for adults.
Government agencies including police, ACC and 10 departments are involved in more than 50 recommendations in the plan to help curb drinking and its harmful effects.
The draft proposals include:
Tackling foetal alcohol spectrum disorder and prenatal exposure to illegal drugs.
Addressing the link between alcohol and sport.
Dealing with the social and parental supply of alcohol to minors.
New Transport Ministry figures show the number of drink/drug road deaths increased to 128 last year from 109 in 2006. The provisional figures show there were 2336 injuries linked to alcohol, costing about $838 million. A quarter of all ACC claims are alcohol-related.