TISPOL president Koen Ricour said: ‘Those who choose to ignore all the warnings and drive after drinking or using drugs are taking an unacceptable risk and are putting the lives of others in danger. That’s why officers will be stepping up their enforcement during this coming week. Drivers can expect highly visible and widespread enforcement of alcohol and drug laws during the operation, at any location and at any time of day or night.’

He added: ‘Our advice is clear, simple and unequivocal. If you have had a drink, do not drive. If you need to drive, then do not drink. If you have used recreational drugs, then do not drive. If you are taking medicine, whether prescribed or purchased over the counter, then read the notes of advice that go with it. If these tell you not to drive after taking the medicine, then do not drive. The advice is there for a reason, to keep you and others safe.

‘If you are in any doubt about medicines and driving, then our advice is to consult a healthcare professional before you get behind the wheel.’

During a similar week-long operation in December 2011, a total of 1,025,482 drivers were checked in 27 European countries. Officers reported 13,588 alcohol offences and 1,300 drug offences.