THE MESSAGE of the seasonal campaign being conducted by the Road Safety Unit of the Ministry of Transport and Works is aimed at curbing road accidents caused by motorists driving while under the influence of alcohol.
The organisers of the campaign have indicated that it is not their intention to deprive the community of enjoyment at this time of revelry and celebration, but to emphasise the importance of being sensitive and sensible to a life and death issue.
The campaign, yet another in a long line of similar drives to bring home the seriousness of the situation, operates against a background of social values and attitudes which has little patience for demonising alcohol. In our culture, the consumption of alcohol is hardly regarded as a matter for concern. Rum, for instance, is a way of life, not only as a recreational habit but a factor of economic importance, being the by-product of one of our most historic crops (the sugar cane).
"Social drinking" is as much a part of the routine of success as professional qualifications. We have 'nuff respeck' for the man who can hold his liquor. We joke that even a devout worshipper can justify 'a little wine for the stomach's sake', encouraged by the injunction of the Apostle Paul. In all seriousness, however, the abuse of alcohol is no laughing matter. The 'no drink-no drive' campaign is a call therefore ,for responsibility, not only for the good of the individual but the wider community.
There are enough statistics to bear out the price paid in injury, loss of life and the suffering of families when drink-soaked drivers fall prey to faulty judgement, poor vision, slow responses, etc., while behind the wheel. Likewise, the cost to the nation's social services e.g. hospitals is a matter for concern.
The 'don't drink, don't drive' campaign recognises that there will be times of human weakness. It is in that spirit that 'the designated driver', one who will accept the responsibility to forego his or her imbibing and pilot friends home safely, assumes importance. We are pleased to note that this is part of the current campaign and would urge full support for it.
We note with interest also that the police have indicated that breathalyser tests are being resumed. It is to be hoped that the many problems and controversies with which the programme has been beset from its introduction here will have been resolved by now and confidence restored to an aspect of law-keeping, vital for the good of the community.
Let us all enjoy the spirit - and yes, the spirits of the holiday season, but let us do so in an atmosphere of responsibility, with due regard for our well-being as individuals and the community as a whole.
THE OPINIONS ON THIS PAGE, EXCEPT FOR THE ABOVE, DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE GLEANER.
