FG, Labour stay silent until details published
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OPPOSITION TDs are refusing to say where they stand on the Government's controversial proposal to reduce the drink- driving limit.
Fine Gael and Labour said last night that they want to see the road traffic legislation published before they give their "official" view.
But without ever seeing the legislation, opposition TDs are refusing to say whether they agree or disagree with the drink-driving clampdown.
Labour transport spokesperson Tommy Broughan said his party "would be very reluctant to oppose any initiative that can conclusively be shown to have the potential to further reduce road deaths".
But Mr Broughan stopped short of rowing in behind the Government's proposal to reduce the limit down to 50mg.
"Of course, unlike the Fianna Fail parliamentary party, we have not yet received any specific information on the Government's proposals and we will have to await these before forming a final view. Indeed, the Dail has now been waiting over two years for the proposed Road Traffic Bill," he said.
"We are also deeply conscious of the need to avoid any unnecessary action that would hit rural communities and lead to further social isolation.
"The rural pub is the social hub in many areas. Many pubs have already closed and others are under pressure and nobody wants to see any more closures," he added.
His party colleague, Longford/Westmeath TD Willie Penrose, said he was "easy" about the issue.
Fine Gael has remained silent on the issue since the controversy erupted within the Fianna Fail parliamentary party this week.
A Fine Gael spokesperson said last night: "We are going to wait until the legislation is published to respond formally." Party sources said that Fine Gael was not going to get bounced into taking a stance when Fianna Fail has yet to clarify the legislation. Fine Gael Mayo TD Michael Ring -- one of the party's most vocal deputies on rural issues -- also refused to say where he stood.
Cowen cannot lead country
- Aidan O'Connor
Irish Independent
