Minister for Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau says he supports the introduction of drug tests for drivers, “whether mandatory or random”.
Speaking to the media yesterday on the Lands Transport Authority’s plan to implement drug testing for drivers, Ro Filipe said this was a positive step forward.
“I have not received an update from them (LTA) yet but that needs to happen whether it is mandatory or random,” said Ro Filipe.
“It needs to happen through various stages whether they are applying for driving test or driving school.
“There should be some type of random testing, and it needs to be done in liaison with our enforcement agencies, for example police, as we move forward.
“I believe it is a positive step that is something that is needed given the increasing prevalence of drug use and also the impact of safety on our roads.”
He said the proposed initiative would ensure drivers abusing drugs were off our roads.
“I don’t see anything negative about it.
“It should have positive results.
“For those who are applying to drive and current drivers will know when such measures are in place they will definitely refrain from (taking drugs) because it would result in them being prosecuted.
“It would also result in them losing their licences.”
He added speeding was the biggest contributor of accidents in the country which could be linked to drug abuse.
“Some of the data indicate that some of the accidents are caused by over speeding.
“Over speeding is caused by those under the influence, general recklessness and some could be linked to abuse of drugs.
“So, we really need to clamp down on that in order to address issues of road safety.”
Last year the Land Transport Authority had proposed the implementation of laws for mandatory drug testing for both current and new drivers.
