The number of drink driving cases coming before the courts is continuing to fall. There was a 60% drop last year alone when compared with the figures for 2006.

Just over a decade ago, Ireland had one of the worst records for drink drinking - and in 2006 almost 28,000 people were brought before the courts.

Random roadside breath testing was brought in that year and combined with the hard work of both the gardaí and the Road Safety Authority, the figures began to tumble.

According to the Courts Service of Ireland, just over 11,000 drink driving cases were dealt with last year which is a 60% drop on the 2006 figure.

The numbers also show it does not pay to take a chance behind the wheel when you have consumed alcohol.

Aside from the obvious risk to both you and others, a conviction carries harsh penalties with 165 people jailed last year and 4,200 put off the road.