To date in 2022, a total of 114 people have died on Irish roads.
A new campaign has been launched to highlight the impact a driving disqualification may have on those planning a J1 Visa Programme next summer.
An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and USIT Travel have come together to remind students that a drink or drug driving conviction could stop them “from going to the US on their J1 or ever”.
The campaign is aimed at new and returning students across Ireland as they settle back in college and begin to consider a summer abroad next year on USIT’s J1 visa programme.
As part of it, a video has been released telling the story of a group of friends experiencing the summer of a lifetime on their J1 visa in the US juxtaposed with another friend’s experience back at home because he was disqualified from driving.
The RSA says the story highlights “the contrast between an incredible summer abroad and the disappointment of missing out on such an experience as a result of reckless drink or drug driving behaviour”.
As is outlined on the USIT website, “if you have committed/ been arrested and/or convicted of any criminal or drink driving offence, you will not be eligible for the J1”.
Clip via RSA Ireland
In a statement marking the campaign, USIT’s Lisa Collender said: “The J1 visa programme is a fantastic opportunity for students to kickstart their travel and career dreams.
“This is why we want students to seriously consider how these dreams can be taken away with a drink or drug driving offence.
“Ask yourself: is the risk worth sacrificing a summer of a lifetime working abroad?”
Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, roads policing and community engagement, encouraged students to enjoy themselves in a responsible manner and remember that the decisions they make today can affect their tomorrow.
“While the majority of people don’t drink and drive, some continue to take risks, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” she said.
“A drink or drug driving conviction can result in a driving ban of up to six years, it could impact on travel plans and job opportunities for young people, particularly those who want to pursue a J1 visa.”
To date in 2022, a total of 114 people have died on Irish roads, 11 more than the same period in 2021.
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