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 campaign, organised by the Sensible Sentencing Trust, will remember the lives of those killed by recidivist drunk and drugged drivers by wearing a white rose.
Megan McPherson, spokeswoman for the lobby group Cross Roads, 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 drinking drivers were prosecuted in 2006. One-third of them were repeat offenders and more than 3000 had had at least three drink-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 with the 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 stood at 404 - 27 more deaths than at this time last year - and the Christmas holiday period still remained, 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
