Just under 700 people were arrested for suspected drink driving over Christmas.
Gardai have just released figures for their dedicated 35 day enforcement campaign over the festive period.
More than 36,000 drivers were breath tested during that time, and 13 of those arrested were detained on Christmas Day. 20 people were arrested on average each day.
The figures also show 17 people lost their lives on the roads between December the first and the fourth of January.
Assistant Commissioner John Twomey said today:
"As we announced in advance of this targeted Christmas campaign, there was considerable Garda enforcement activity, as evidenced by over 36,000 drivers being breath tested, and nearly 700 drivers arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. It is totally unacceptable that some people continue to drink or take drugs and drive.
"Even on Christmas Day, when families should be enjoying time with their loved ones, 13 people were arrested on suspicion of intoxicated driving, which is two more than Christmas Day 2013. These people put themselves and others at significant risk. They may now face considerable penalties including being banned from driving. Had they heeded the many safety messages that have gone out as part of this campaign this could have easily have been avoided.”