Only drink drivers convicted in court are eligible for the rehabilitation course

From October, banned motorists will be charged �60 to take part in the one-day driving course. Previously the island's government paid the costs.

The course is only open to people convicted of driving offences in court.

According to the Isle of Man probation service, which runs the programme, of 56 drivers who have attended the course since 2005 nobody has reoffended.

I recognise that the proposal to charge drink drive offenders to undertake this course was controversial Martyn Quayle, Isle of Man Home Affairs Minister

The decision to charge banned offenders was made by Tynwald last week.

Home affairs minister Martyn Quayle said: "I recognise that the proposal to charge drink drive offenders to undertake this course was controversial.

"It's also worth noting that in the UK drink drivers pay around double that, up to �120, for their version of the course.

"The Manx summary courts have indicated that rehabilitation courses are likely to be used more in future and with many demands on government's purse, a contribution towards the cost of providing these courses will be welcome."

A qualified drug and alcohol officer from the probation service leads the course along with input from the fire and ambulance services and police which will take place four times a year.

Course leader Orla McGlinchey said: "Most of the people attending the course come with fear and apprehension and are pleasantly surprised with the warm reception they receive."