Gardaí are advising motorists in Dublin to take extreme care while driving this bank holiday weekend.
Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid of the Dublin Metropolitan Region Traffic Corps was speaking today at Dublin Castle ahead of a number of planned Garda operations which will involve high profile mandatory alcohol checkpoints across the city in conjunction with Garda speed checks.
The main focus this weekend will be on speeding and in particular the 50km zones which the Garda Síochána analysis service has identified as the areas that vulnerable road users are most at risk. There will be a particular focus this bank holiday weekend on the enforcement of drink-driving legislation, speeding and wearing of seatbelts, particularly by back seat passengers. However any breaches of road traffic legislation will not be taken lightly by members of An Garda Síochána.
Chief Superintendent Reid revealed that there have been 10 fatalities in the Dublin Region so far this year. He appealed to motorists to slow down in areas with high concentrations of pedestrians such as housing estates and shopping centres.
At this time of the year with good weather and long evenings more people are using bicycles and we ask that motorists be aware of the increased number of cyclists on our roads. Cyclists should also be aware of their obligation to obey the rules of the road.
Motorcyclists are reminded to check their bikes to ensure tyres, brakes and lighting are all in good condition and that they take time to familiarise themselves with their motorcycles before embarking on journeys and ensure their helmets were correctly fitted.
In co-operation with the National Roads Authority and Dublin City Council safety messages will be displayed on Variable Messaging Signs (VMS) on all arterial routes and also in the city centre.
Interviews will be facilitated by contacting the Garda Press Office 01-6662071 on Thursday 3 June 2010.
Garda Press Office.
