Momentum calls for random drug and alcohol testing for safer roads
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Momentum fully supports the call made by top medical professionals in the Emergency Department of Mater Dei Hospital for the introduction of random drug and alcohol testing for motorists in Malta “without the need for reasonable suspicion.”
“This is not just a necessary step, it is long overdue,” the Party said.
In a statement on Friday, Momentum warned that “too many lives have been shattered, too many families left broken, and too many near-misses ignored. Road safety in Malta cannot wait for another tragedy. We must act with urgency and determination.”
“Momentum stands firmly behind the implementation of random testing, in line with proven international best practices that have saved lives across Europe,” it said.
The Party insisted that drinking or taking drugs before getting behind the wheel is not a “personal choice,” it is a “public threat.” Random testing is not about punishing people, it is about deterrence, about prevention, and about protecting innocent lives. “Allowing reckless behaviour on our roads to go unchecked is something we should all be worried about.”
Momentum´s Matthew Agius said, “we are encouraged by growing awareness among professionals, citizens, and civil society on this issue. But awareness without action is meaningless. It is time for Parliament, authorities, and enforcement agencies to rise to the occasion and introduce a robust, transparent and fair system of random roadside testing, one that is backed by law, supported by technology, and enforced consistently.”
He added that “Momentum believes that a culture of responsibility, accountability, and safety on our roads must be at the heart of our transport policy. We have no room for complacency.”
Agius concluded by calling on the Government to “fast-track the legislative and logistical framework necessary to make this a reality. Road building should also take into account speed calming measures rather than encourage higher speeds – Let’s make our roads safer.”
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