Pubdate: Mon, 13 Dec 2004
Source: BBC News (UK Web)
Copyright: 2004 BBC
Contact:  http://news.bbc.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/558

DRUG-DRIVERS TESTED IN AUSTRALIA

Victoria Says Its Drug Testing Is A World First

The random drug testing of drivers has begun in the southern Australian 
state of Victoria.

Authorities say the checks are the first of their kind and aim to cut the 
number of drug-affected motorists dying on the roads.

Around 9,000 drivers are expected to be screened during the year-long trial.

A third of drivers killed on the state's roads last year tested positive to 
drugs other than alcohol, according to Victoria's police minister.

Victoria's Police Minister, Andre Haermeyer, said the roadside checks were 
a world first.

They will target people who have used cannabis and methamphetamines at 
nightclubs and dance parties.

Truck drivers who take drugs - usually methamphetamines - to stay awake 
will also face scrutiny.

A media officer at Victoria Police, Sheree Argento, said these two drugs 
were being focused on because "obviously, they are the two most accessible 
drugs, and the two that people are most likely to take and then drive".

Test Process

The test involves asking drivers to place a small absorbent pad on their 
tongues for a few seconds.

The screening of saliva will not detect prescription drugs or medication 
such as cold or flu tablets.

Drivers testing positive will then be required to give a second sample, 
which will be sent to a laboratory.

Those found to have used illegal substances will be fined and could lose 
their licence.

Ms Argento said that 32 drivers were tested on the first day of the 
screening on Monday. Twenty-two of these were truck drivers.

One man tested positive, although it is not known which drug this was for. 
He was given a fine of A$300 and three demerit points.

Ms Argento said the tested drivers all complied with the procedure. She 
said they knew what to expect because of publicity about the scheme ahead 
of its launch.

An Australian survey recently revealed that one in four men under the age 
of 25 said they had driven a car after taking an illegal drug.

The tests could soon be extended to other parts of Australia.

Police in New South Wales are expected to begin a 12-month trial next year, 
along with similar roadside checks in Tasmania.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth