Seven people failed impaired driving tests over the weekend as anti-drink-driving campaigners launched a publicity blitz in a bid to ensure a safe Christmas on the roads.

In all, nine people were arrested by Police on suspicion of drunk driving.

None were involved in road traffic accidents.

The Road Safety Council and the Police want to slash the number of drink-driving arrests and reduce accidents after festive tipples.

And with 2000 looking as though it will top the previous year for breath test failures, Police are especially keen to hammer home the message to those who may be tempted on the roads after Christmas parties.

Part of the plan includes a "designated driver'' programme, which has worked well in other countries.

It involves a group of people choosing one person who will drive for the evening and not touch alcohol. In return, participating restaurants and bars will give that person -- who wears a special badge -- three free, non-alcoholic drinks.

The campaign comes after Police statistics showed a third-quarter rise in the number of drunk driving arrests.

The year to date figure showed a 26 percent increase in people failing breath tests, More than half of those also involved accidents.

The Road Safety Council believes the message that drink-driving is now a major social taboo is slowly getting across.

Between five and ten years ago, it was more accepted, they said, but now people were realising the dangers and the consequences of driving over the limit.