Provisional Garda statistics released today show that 564 people were arrested for drink-driving during the week from St Patrick's Day to last Sunday.
These figures compared to 390 drink-driving incidents the previous week.
In 2007, 427 people were arrested on suspicion of driving while drunk during the week from Monday, April 2nd, to Easter Sunday.
It is not known whether there were more drink-driving incidents in 2008 because St Patrick's Day fell in Holy Week this year.
A Garda statement said enforcement in the drink-driving area will continue to be prioritised.
