Last Chance to Keep Drama off the Roads

As the race to the Oscars hots up, young filmmakers in Ireland can win their own prestigious gong for filmmaking talent with the Keep drama off the Roads film competition being held by Setanta Insurance.

This competition, which provides young film makes with the opportunity to win €3000 and a public screening, has had its deadline extended to 14^th February following requests from filmmakers eager to submit their entry.

The Keep Drama off the Roads campaign is looking for young people aged 16-25 to create a short film reflecting the devastating effects of drug driving.

Since its launch in November, young filmmakers have been creating their submissions and requests from frantic film directors requesting an extension have urged Setanta Insurance to give entrants an extra two weeks to complete their entry.

A study on drug driving by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety showed that seven out of 10 erratic drivers are under the influence of some kind of drug and that the vast majority of drug drivers - more than 90 pc - were male.

It is these shocking statistics which struck a chord with the campaign's supporter, intrepid TV presenter Baz Ashmawy who has called for young people to think seriously about taking drugs and opting to drive a car.

"Getting this issue out in the open is the first step; driving while under the influence of both illegal and prescription drugs puts drivers and other road-users in serious danger.  It is important that young people consider the devastating impact that drug-driving carries in order to put the brakes firmly on activity which is a world away from glamourous party images that surround us," said Baz.

Keep Drama off the Roads has already received entries exploring various aspects of the effects of drug driving and is pleased with the positive way in which the campaign has been received by Ireland's young people.

Mike Matthews, CEO, Setanta Insurance: "Drug driving is a significant problem in Ireland and our campaign has aided in unmasking an issue which effects so many of us, but is rarely discussed or even acknowledged. Encouraging young people to think about how they would feel if drug driving touched their lives is the first step in tackling this issue."

Those wishing to enter the competition should visit www.keepdramaofftheroads.ie for a full list of entry requirements and advice about making their short film. Closing date for entries is now 14^th February 2010.  An expert panel of judges made up of representatives from Setanta Insurance, Baz Ashmawy and special guests will shortlist the films which most highlight the hazards of drug driving.

Press enquiries:

Jemma Volp-Fletcher/Christine Morgan

Mason Media

0044151 239 5056

jemma@masonmedia.co.uk/christine@masonmedia.co.uk