Ireland has been considering a Road Traffic Bill which includes lowering the legal limit to the equivalent of .05% (50mg/100ml).

The lower limit is endorsed by the World Health Organization, which believes this is the limit when alcohol actually impairs driving ability. The measure would also lower the legal limit for learning drivers, underage drivers and professional license holders to .02% (20mg/100ml).

Allegedly, studies Ireland has compiled from other countries, a driver is 5 to 10 times more likely to be in an accident at the .08% level. 5 to 10 times is a very wide margin, leading many to ask where these studies are and where the actual scientific numbers are to substantiate this claim.

If the measure is passed, it would not go into effect until 2011, because Ireland would need to replace outdated breath testing devices. The current devices would need to be recalibrated to the lower amount, which could take as long as 9 months. Then, the machines would need replaced in another 2-3 years. Officials say they will simply replace the machines now to save the hassle.

They also say that the devices are called into question frequently since DUI in Ireland is a highly litigious crime. The new machines will have a greater assurance of Constitutional rights because they will have a better technology, according to reports.

In addition to the lower limit, Ireland will support more random breath testing. Breath testing will be mandatory at the site of any accident. This is a highly controversial agenda being tested in several countries, including Canada.

The new law does provide for some protection for a person who has drank very little. If a person is found to be between the .05% and .08% BAC limit, there will be 3 penalty points assessed against his license rather than a full suspension. A .05% BAC could be as little as one drink for some women especially.