Drug-driving has surged in the Republic this year, with Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly saying cocaine was the substance of choice for most drivers caught, and he was now “really concerned” about it. The popularity and availability of the drug was behind the record drug-driving figures, the sources said. Mr Kelly said the Garda organisation was projected to increase to 16,000 sworn members by the end of 2029. Mr Ward said while Garda visibility had improved around Dublin city centre, this needed to be replicated in the suburbs. He said the Dublin west area was a priority region to be allocated more gardaí as numbers in the force increased.

Source: The Irish Times November 11, 2025 23:55 UTC