Gardaí issue road safety message for St Patrick's weekend

Gardaí say they will be out in force this bank holiday weekend with increased checkpoints and surveillance patrols around the country.

They will mostly be clamping down on drink- or drug-driving, speeding and the non-wearing of seatbelts.

Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid is with the Garda Traffic Corps.

"Speeding is one of the critical factors with road safety and as we come into this St. Patrick's Festival weekend, it's absolutely essential that people heed the speed warnings" he said.

"Never, ever drink and drive - and again, if people feel fatigue coming on we absolutely urge them to take a break and have a cup of coffee" he added.