Ferris statement from Sinn Féin press office
Read more about: Kerry North, Sinn Féin 
The key sentences, following his arrest on suspicion of drunk-driving sound tough but it’s not clear what they actually mean in his case.
Martin is very mindful of the issue of drink driving particularly given the high level of fatalities on our roads. He would be the first to be critical of anyone who would drive while over the limit. It is totally unacceptable and indefensible behaviour
Also interesting is the decision to make his first comment on the matter a statement issued from the party rather than from himself. The headline on the SF press statement includes the information that it was a random breath test, as if to say that nothing about his actual driving had attracted attention.
Doesn’t mention in the SF release that he was arrested – it’s as if he was just stopped for a random test and sent on his way, which doesn’t seem to be the case according to RTÉ.
This could actually bode well for Ferris – plenty of rural voters dislike the zero tolerance approach to drink driving and think that people can have “a couple” of drinks and still be fit to drive… if there’s any impression I took from the last Frank Opinion it’s that some people would prefer there to be no drink-driving law as it’s bad for business.
I reckon that adam has hit on something. First the dislike of the Drink driving legislation and second the nature of rural voters. Think Lowry. They like to circle the wagons if the man is worth it. It could pose problems to him, no doubt about it. But dont be surprised if they are less than one might expect in the constituency.
Wednesday has posted on this too, interesting point raised viz the timing. It did seem to have the effect last time of hardening support, this though is likely to be different.
It will benefit him. He was struggling according to polls. This will get him to top the poll
When I first saw the headline I thought “stitch-up”. Him and the Bill have issues.
Can’t see how it would be a stitch up unless he was stone cold sober. The other factor is that this is highly unlikely to come before the courts this side of the election. And even if it were, he could use the Collins (Michael, Limerick West) defence to get it moved until after as we’re in a delicate time in the electoral cycle don’t you know.
Along with the topcop being caught recently this is another example of how unwilling community leaders, representatives are in succumbing to laws which actually make sense and are for the general welfare of the public. The consumption of alcohol, narcotics adversely affect a person’s ability to respond to challenges on the road. Speeding of course is even more problematic. It would be sad if this gets him to the top of the polls.
Ahh come on lads….
It’s not like he was blind drunk driving the wrong way down the motorway.
We all know what damage that does to your political career.