Galway East TD Sean Canney has threatened to vote against Shane Ross's drink-driving legislation unless incentives are introduced for rural taxis.

The Independent Alliance deputy wants a package of measures in the Budget to offset what he sees as the potential damage to rural life from stricter drink-driving laws.

Minister Ross wants to impose a three-month mandatory ban on drivers caught with between 50mg and 80mg of alcohol in their blood.

Currently the offence is punishable with a €200 fixed charge and three penalty points.

Fianna Fáil has indicated it will not back the bill, but the Transport Minister has the support of Sinn Féin - meaning it should pass a Dáil vote.

Several rural Fine Gael TDs have also raised concerns, but are likely to be ordered to follow the Government line.

Deputy Canney says if the bill is brought in as it is, with nothing for rural Ireland, he will be opposing it.

He called for a package of measures in Budget 2018 for taxis that bring people home from country pubs.