Garda Christmas Enforcement Campaign Update 19th Dec 2013

In addition to intoxicated driving, general road offences will be targeted, including use of seatbelts, vehicle lighting, tyre condition, driving licences, insurance, NCT and road tax. <_o3a_p>

High visibility merchandise will be distributed to pedestrians and cyclists (while stocks last), which will be advertised on social media in advance.

Assistant Commissioner John Twomey said today:-

"Last week we ran a highly publicised checkpoint on the M1, and amongst other offences detected, 1 person was arrested for intoxicated driving. It is therefore totally unacceptable that a further 138 people made that decision to drink and drive last week, and were subsequently arrested. I want to send a very strong message to all drivers and remind them that members of An Garda Síochána are out in force all around the country, targeting this and other key life saver road offences. Never ever drink and drive. It’s just not worth it”

Commissioner Twomey continued:-

In addition to enforcement there is also a significant educational aspect to our Christmas Campaign. In particular we have been distributing an extra 30,000 items of RSA high visibility merchandise to pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists throughout the country. We are encouraged that people want these items to make themselves visible on the roads, however we wish to remind all drivers to take that extra effort to watch out for those that may not be as visible as they should be. Furthermore for those out socialising, act responsibly and make sure you get home safely…don’t overdo it. Make this a safe holiday period for all.”

Mr John Caulfield, Interim CEO, Road Safety Authority:

"179 people have died on our roads so far this year, 22 more than the same period last year. And sadly, by the end of this year, road deaths will have increased on Irish roads for the first time since 2005. Christmas is a time to relax and spend time with family and friends, but it’s not a time to become complacent about our behaviour on the roads. So be vigilant about your safety – don’t speed or take risks on the road, wear your seatbelt, and never ever drink or drug drive. If you’re a pedestrian, cyclist or motorcyclist, remember that you are far more vulnerable on the roads than any other road-user. So make sure you can be seen by other road-users when you’re out on the roads. The simplest way to make yourself visible to other road-users is to wear a high visibility vest, jacket or Sam Browne belt. This Saturday is ‘National Be Safe, Be Seen Day’ in association with Electric Ireland so we would urge everyone to get involved by wearing high vis material when you’re out walking, running, cycling or motorcycling. It could help to save a life.”

Notes to Editor