Ahern challenges young drivers to halt road deaths

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern today pleaded with young people to rise to the challenge of halting the unnecessary carnage on the country’s roads.

Ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, Mr Ahern appealed to drivers to be cautious on the busy roads.

Mr Ahern said: “Today I ask you to join with me in preventing deaths and serious injuries on our roads. I particularly urge young people to rise to this challenge, and to make sure that their families do not get that dreaded call from the Gardai delivering terrible news. We can prevent deaths.”

Mr Ahern’s plea came as gardaí warned drink-driving and speeding would be targeted this weekend.

“I want to make a particular appeal to parents and young people to do all within their grasp to make this a safe weekend for driving. I am determined that as a nation we cease the unnecessary carnage, death, injury and grief caused by road collisions,” he said.

“There is no simple quick remedy. My Government has provided the legislation and resources required by the Gardai, and we are determined to do more. We have the key ingredients in place in terms of the Road Safety Authority, the road building provisions contained in the Transport 21 plan, and Garda Enforcement levels to ensure that no stone is left unturned to deliver in these areas.”

After five lives were lost on the last October Bank Holiday weekend, officers have promised a hard-hitting road safety enforcement operation.

Gardaí said the message was simple over this holiday period.

“If you are drinking this Bank Holiday weekend – don’t drive; use a nominated non-drinking driver to do the driving or else use public transport,” a spokesman said.

A large number of breathalysing checkpoints are planned for every garda division over the three days.

Last October Bank Holiday weekend five people were killed in road crashes and 137 were injured. Around 324 people were arrested for drink-driving offences over the same period.

Gardaí also warned drivers that using handheld mobile phones whilst driving is a penalty point offence. Around 260 people are issued notices for breaking the offence every week.

People driving longer journeys over the weekend were urged to take frequent breaks to ensure they do not suffer from deadly driver fatigue.