Minister backs random drug testing for drivers

Transportation Minister Ron Felipe Tuisawau has expressed his support for drug testing for drivers, whether mandatory or random. He believes this measure is positive and will contribute to improved road safety.

Speaking to the media yesterday, Ron Felipe addressed the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) plan to implement drug testing for drivers. He stated that while he has not yet received an updated progress report from the LTA, the testing, whether mandatory or random, should be implemented as soon as possible.

Ron Felipe emphasized that drug testing should be conducted in phases, including when applying for a driver's license or attending driving school. Simultaneously, it is necessary to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, such as the police, to conduct random tests. He added, "Given the increasing prevalence of drug use and its impact on road safety, I believe this is a necessary and positive step."

He believes that the proposed initiative will have a positive impact by ensuring that drug-affected drivers are kept off the roads. "For those applying for driver's licenses and existing drivers, when these measures are in place, they will definitely avoid (drug use) because it could lead to prosecution or even loss of their license."

Ron Felipe added that speeding is a major cause of traffic accidents in the country, and this may be linked to drug abuse. "Some data shows that some accidents are caused by speeding. Speeding can stem from being under the influence of drugs, general reckless driving, and drug abuse. Therefore, we really need to crack down on these behaviors to address road safety issues." The Land Transport Authority proposed legislation last year to implement mandatory drug testing for existing and new drivers.