Three killed and thousands caught speeding over Easter weekend, gardaí say

More than 4,000 drivers were detected for speeding offences during the operation. Picture: Dan Linehan

Three people have died and more than 4,000 drivers have been detected for speeding across the Easter bank holiday weekend.

Gardaí launched an enhanced road policing operation from 7am last Thursday until 7am this Tuesday to clamp down on speeding motorists and driving under the influence of intoxicants.

A Garda spokesperson said: "During this period, there were three fatalities on our roads, and five serious injury collisions. 

"In excess of 175 drivers were detected for intoxicated driving and in excess of 1,000 drivers were detected for speeding during the operation."

More than 4,000 drivers were detected for speeding offences during the operation, including:

• 103km/h in a 50km/h zone on the Malahide Road, Donnycarney, Dublin 3.
• 138km/h in a 50km/h zone on Cashel Road, Cahir, Tipperary.
• 98km/h in a 60km/h zone on the North Road, Drogheda, Louth.
• 102km/h in a 60km/h zone on the Stillorgan Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin.
• 138km/h in an 80km/h zone on the N60, Manulla, Mayo.
• 102km/h in an 80km/h zone on the R148, Kilmurry, Enfield, Meath.
• 147km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N11, Newcastle, Co Wicklow.
• 141km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N22, Killaha, Killarney, Co Kerry.

More than 290 people were also caught using a mobile phone while driving, and over 95 drivers were detected not wearing seatbelts.

An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to all road users to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, to slow down, and to always choose a speed that is appropriate to the driving conditions, to wear a seatbelt, and keep their eyes on the road.

"Drivers should continue to give driving their full attention, slow down and take extra care," said the spokesperson.