Publication of convicted drink drivers names to be reviewed

18 August, 2009 - 09:48

Police will review the policy decision not to publish the names of convicted drink drivers said Acting Deputy Commissioner Michael Player.

"We have accepted that there may be no legal impediment to publicly naming those convicted of drink driving offences and will work with Courts to bring about a satisfactory solution," said Mr Player.

The issue centres around the fact the information is owned by Courts and not by Police and the policy decision not to provide the names to the media was based on internal legal advice.

"Police's responsibility is to bring charges to court. Information on convictions post court action is a matter for Courts and is required to be gathered directly from the court."

Mr Player acknowledges the deterrent effect of publishing the names of those convicted of drink driving offences and the current debate and public support for this to continue which has lead to the Police to review the decision and reverse the policy.

"Our road safety mandate strongly supports finding a solution to any barriers around publication of convicted drink drivers and we'll be talking to our colleagues in Justice and Courts to find a solution," said Mr Player.

ENDS