Local TD Malcolm Byrne Speaks With Party Leader Following Arrest On Suspicion Of Drink-Driving

Taoiseach Micheál Martin was briefed by Wicklow Wexford TD as the results of further testing are awaited

Fianna Fáil Wicklow–Wexford TD Malcolm Byrne has confirmed he was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving after failing a roadside breath test in Dublin last week, saying he informed his party immediately after the incident.

The Gorey-based TD was stopped at a Garda checkpoint on Pearse Street in the early hours of Thursday morning while en route from a city-centre hotel to Dublin Airport.

In a statement, Deputy Byrne said:

“I was stopped at a mandatory Garda checkpoint in Dublin city centre, close to my hotel, and I was subsequently arrested on suspicion of drink driving. I am co-operating fully with An Garda Síochána. As the matter is ongoing, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage. I informed the party of this matter immediately.”

Deputy Byrne failed a breathalyser test before later providing a urine sample at Pearse Street Garda Station. The results of that test are still pending.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin was swiftly informed of the incident.

Mr Byrne, who represents Wicklow–Wexford and chairs the Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence, attended Dáil proceedings the evening before the incident before travelling for parliamentary and work engagements.

While no decision has been made on disciplinary action, the case will increase pressure on Fianna Fáil leadership, particularly given Micheál Martin’s previously stated hard line on drink driving-related issues, including the sacking of then-minister Barry Cowen in 2020 over an undeclared driving ban.

Any outcome is likely to depend on the result of the pending urine test and whether further legal proceedings follow.