Motorist caught at 173km/h as gardaí detect 580 speeding offences

So far, no fatalities as a result of traffic collisions have occurred, a garda spokesperson said. Pictue Dan Linehan

A motorist recorded doing 173km/h in a 100km/h zone in Co Cavan is just one of 580 drivers were found speeding between 7am on Thursday and 7am on Friday.

The first 24 hours of the road policing operation for the May Bank Holiday weekend saw 15 people arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

On top of this, 50 people have been issued fines for using their mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt.

So far, no fatalities from traffic collisions have been reported, a garda spokesperson said.

"To date, the total number of fatalities on Irish roads this year is 55," they added. 

Notable speeds detected on Thursday include: 

• 80km/h in a 50km/h zone on the R188 at Drumbear, Co Monaghan 
• 111km/h in a 60km/h zone on the R267 at Bundoran, Co Donegal 
• 107km/h in an 80km/h zone on the R684 at Dunmore East, Co Waterford 
• 173km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N87 at Belturbet, Co Cavan

Gardaí and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are urging all road users to support their efforts to keep themselves and others safe this weekend.

"Every member of An Garda Síochána on duty this long weekend will be out conducting road traffic enforcement activity," a spokesperson said. 

"Gardaí will be placing a particular emphasis on detecting those driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs this weekend. At no point is it safe or acceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after having an intoxicant like alcohol or drugs.

"An Garda Síochána is urging road users to take extra caution around vulnerable road users, in particular pedestrians and cyclists.

"Motorists are reminded to always drive within the speed limit. Always wear a seatbelt and never use a mobile phone when driving. Keep distractions out of the vehicle and put your full attention on the road.

"Walking home or cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs can also put you and other road users at risk. Cyclists and pedestrians should stay visible and observe their surroundings at all times," they added. 

The operation has been in force since Thursday and will remain in place until 7am on Tuesday.