New speed limits come into force tonight

New metric speed limits are due to come into force on all Irish roads at midnight tonight amid concern that many motorists are not prepared for the changeover.

The switch from miles-per-hour to kilometres-per-hour will lead to reductions in the speed limits on 90% of roads and a slight increase in the limit on motorways.

An information campaign advising the public of the new limits has been in force for the past couple of weeks, but some commentators have expressed concern that many motorists are still not prepared.

Despite this, John Farrelly from the Garda Traffic Unit said today that gardaí would not accept any excuses from confused drivers.

"There is no amnesty, there is no run-in period," he said. "People should be aware of the law as it stands, as it changes tonight and we'll be out there to impose the law the same way as we are today."