KEY POINTS:
A campaign aimed at getting the Government to clamp down on recidivist drunk drivers and remove them permanently from the roads will be launched on Boxing Day by families who have lost loved ones in drink-driving accidents.
The Sensible Sentencing Trust organised campaign will remember the lives of those killed by recidivist drunk and drugged drivers by wearing a white rose.
Lobby group Cross Roads spokesperson Megan McPherson said White Rose Day was an opportunity for the families to quietly remember their loved ones, and at the same time be resolute that the Government takes firm action against recidivists in 2008.
"Together we are standing up to say public roads should be safe, civilised places where anyone can make a journey without the threat of being killed by impaired drivers.
"Yet while recidivist drunk and drugged drivers are left to roam our roads the tragedy can only continue."
Ms McPherson said about 29,000 drunk drivers were prosecuted in 2006 with one third of drunk drivers caught were repeat offenders, and over 3000 have at least three drunk driving convictions.
"We want it recognised that the only difference between traditional murderers and the 3000 recidivist drunk and drugged drivers is that their weapon has wheels."
Several families taking part in the campaign lived the with result of recidivist drunk drivers, every day, she said.
" If nothing changes it will mean that by next Boxing Day more lives will have been needlessly wasted. This will represent even more pain, grief and shattered dreams that could have been avoided."
The road toll had increased this year, and stands at 404 - 27 more deaths than this time last year and the Christmas holiday period still remains, she said.
"Politicians are aware that the existing law allows these random killers to continue driving but amending it doesn't appear to be a priority.
"We want to make it clear that in 2008 politicians must deliver what the public wants - safe and civilised roads."
- NZPA
