Can you be fined for eating or drinking while driving in Northern Ireland?

Yes, if eating or drinking causes you to drive without proper control or due care; eating itself is not a separately named blanket offence.

The Northern Ireland Highway Code specifically lists eating and drinking among distractions drivers should avoid. A driver who takes a hand off the wheel, misses a hazard or drifts out of position may be dealt with for the underlying driving offence. A sandwich or drink is not automatically unlawful whenever the car is moving, but that is no defence if your driving becomes unsafe. Stop somewhere legal before eating if you cannot keep full attention on the road.