Fermanagh and Omagh have recorded the biggest decrease in drink and drug-driving arrests.

According to the latest PSNI data, there were just nine arrests made in the area from December 1, 2023, to January 1, 2024.

This is a significant drop from the 31 arrests made in the same period last year.

The data, analysed by CompareNI.com, highlights an ongoing issue across Northern Ireland, with nearly 300 arrests made last Christmas for drink or drug driving.

Belfast, Derry City and Strabane, and Mid Ulster topped the chart for the highest number of arrests, with 65, 37, and 36 arrests respectively.

Ian Wilson, car insurance expert and managing director of CompareNI.com (Image: Seopa) Over half of those arrested were aged between 30 and 49.

The youngest was 14, and the oldest was 82.

The highest evidential breath test reading recorded during the campaign was 159µg/100ml, more than four and a half times the legal limit.

Ian Wilson, car insurance expert and managing director of CompareNI.com, said: "It’s shocking that drink or drug driving is still such a prevalent issue.

"With the festive season approaching there’s real cause for concern given that over half of the district council areas saw an increase in arrests last Christmas."

A survey by CompareNI revealed that 83 per cent of respondents acknowledged that drink driving is more of an issue at Christmas time.

Of these, 43 per cent admitted knowing someone who has driven over the legal limit.

Mr Wilson said: “However, it is positive to see the survey results returned 71% were in favour of changing the law to zero alcohol behind the wheel.

"With a wider range of zero alcohol wines and beers and an increase in public transport options across Northern Ireland, it is hoped that this Christmas will see a dramatic reduction in drink driving offences."