"Operation Focus” is an initiative whereby An Garda Síochána will focus our enforcement resources in a concentrated fashion on known high risk locations for a 24 hour period moving from Garda region to Garda region throughout the year.
The objective is to "Focus” the attention of all road users on the ongoing enforcement around the main causes of deaths on our roads – speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, dangerous driving, non-use of seatbelts and the unlawful use of mobile phones.
The initiative commences today, the 24th February 2012, in the Dublin Region and will be extended to all other Garda Regions nationwide throughout the year.
All Garda resources including safety cameras will be utilised and will be supported by the "Road Safety Authority”.
Assistant Commissioner John O’ Mahoney speaking earlier today said "while the continued downward trend in fatalities is to be welcomed we appeal to road users to continue to "Focus” on road safety in order that we can continue the reduction in deaths and serious injury and spare families the pain and grief associated with such sudden loss of a loved one. Enforcement continues to be a high priority for An Garda Síochána as can be seen at this location”.
One death on our roads is One too many.
Already this year, after only 7 weeks, 22 people have been killed on our roads, confirming that there is no room for complacency.
Assistant Commissioner O’ Mahoney also said "Today is the first day in a series of such operations that will be held in each region throughout the country. The objective is to remind people that it doesn’t pay to take chances on our roads. As a community we all have a duty to ensure that no family should lose a loved one on our roads as a result of reckless behaviour.
Noel Brett, Road Safety Authority said "Enforcement by An Garda Síochána continues to be a vital component in the battle to reduce deaths and serious injury on our roads. I welcome the initiative "Focus” and I am confident that it will lead to the prosecution of people who still refuse to acknowledge the dangers associated with inappropriate speed, driving under the influence and other breaches of the Road Traffic Act that can cost lives it will also remind people that if you continue to take chances on our roads you will be caught”.
