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COSATU Backs Zero-Tolerance Drunk-Driving Plan and Presses Parliament to Act

The labour federation’s endorsement increases pressure on lawmakers to consider Minister Barbara Creecy’s proposal to remove the legal alcohol limit for drivers.

Overview

  • Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has proposed amending Section 65 of the National Road Traffic Act to scrap the legal alcohol limit for drivers.
  • COSATU, through parliamentary coordinator Matthew Parks, publicly endorsed the proposal and urged Parliament to pass the changes without delay.
  • Authorities cite road-safety data showing roughly 14,000 deaths each year in South Africa, with alcohol linked to more than 40% of fatalities.
  • Preliminary festive-season figures reported 1,427 deaths from 1,172 crashes, reinforcing concerns about drunk driving risk.
  • The plan remains at the proposal stage, with unions and officials stressing that consistent enforcement and public education would be essential if enacted.