Calgary’s police chief says the force is catching fewer drunk drivers on city streets and he’s giving credit to new Alberta laws.

Rick Hanson says the province’s new penalty, which nabs drivers with a blood alcohol level of .05 and .08 and suspends their license for three days, is sending a message to drivers.

Calgary police have seen a drop of just over 50 per cent in the number of licenses suspended.

Hanson tells The Calgary Sun he believes motorists are starting to see the serious consequences that come with getting behind the wheel after drinking.

The comments were made as MADD Canada launched their 25th annual Red Ribbon Campaign encouraging drivers to drive sober over the holiday season.