16 people were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drink or drugs on Christmas Day.
This is up from last year, when 11 people were arrested.
Gardai say it marks a huge increase and is a worrying trend.
Since the launch of their Christmas road safety campaign, Gardai have arrested more than 650 drivers on suspicion of intoxicated driving.
There is an increased Garda presence on the roads over Christmas.
They say "Too many families have lost loved ones to drink and drug driving. An Garda Síochána are pleading with people to stop taking risks, make the right decisions and never ever drive while under the influence of drink or drugs."
Gardai are reminding anyone who gets behing the wheel this festive season to be responsible and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
