Mayo hotel becomes first in Ireland to install mobile breathalyser

IN a ground-breaking move for guest safety, the Broadhaven Bay Hotel in Belmullet has become the first hotel in Ireland to install a Flinebox Mobile Breathalyser Device, in partnership with the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

This innovative, self-service breathalyser allows guests to check their alcohol levels before driving, helping them make informed decisions and avoid any risks on the road.

The RSA is piloting the devices across the country, with the north Mayo hotel being the first business to offer the service.

Whether you’re attending a wedding, a local event, or staying overnight, guests can use the device by simply breathing into a straw to receive an instant reading of their blood alcohol level. If over the legal limit, the machine calculates the time when it will be safe to drive, removing any uncertainty about whether it’s safe to get behind the wheel.

Mary Walsh, assistant wedding coordinator at the Broadhaven Bay Hotel, expressed her excitement about the arrival of the new device: “As a popular Mayo wedding venue, and with many Christmas parties booked for the festive season ahead, the arrival of the breathalyser device in our reception area is perfectly timed. We’re delighted to be able to offer this extra service to our guests and to do our bit to contribute to road safety in our region.”

The initiative is especially valuable for events like weddings and Christmas parties, where guests can ensure they’re fit to drive the next day without having to guess. The breathalyser offers peace of mind for both locals and tourists, knowing they can enjoy their time responsibly.

Christine Hegarty of RSA Ballina worked closely with the hotel to launch this pilot, which has already been used successfully at major events like Electric Picnic.

The RSA aims to roll these devices out across the country to promote safe driving habits.

Mairéad Melody Carr, manager of Mayo North Tourism, praised the hotel’s responsible approach: “Broadhaven Bay Hotel continues to lead the way in guest safety and innovation. By introducing this service, they’re putting their guests’ well-being at the forefront and setting a new standard in responsible hospitality.

“It’s fantastic to see a local business so dedicated to ensuring safety for both locals and visitors alike.”

For more information about the Broadhaven Bay Hotel and their new mobile breathalyser, visit https://www.broadhavenbay.com/.