St Patrick’s Enforcement Campaign Concludes

An Garda Síochána have announced an increase in the number of drivers detected for drink driving and speeding over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period.

Six people lost their lives over the period - an increase of 50% on the same period last year. Serious injury collisions were also up by 20%.

An Garda Síochána conducted 1,195 MAT checkpoints and 11,651 drivers were tested - an increase of 32% on same period last year. 37 drivers were arrested at these checkpoints.

In addition 230 drivers were detected by An Garda Síochána during their patrols over the period.

The total arrested for Drink Driving over the period are 267 drivers - an increase of 3% on 2010.

Provisional figures indicate that over 5,000 drivers were detected speeding over the back holiday period.

Assistant Commissioner Traffic John Twomey said: “The increase in the number of drivers, speeding and drink/drug driving – despite all the evidence as to the consequences of such behaviour is disappointing. These people are from our communities and it is our communities who are paying the price for their recklessness. An Garda Síochána will continue its effort to stamp out this behaviour.”

Mr. Noel Brett, CEO, Road Safety Authority commenting on the enforcement figures said: “While it’s disappointing to see so many people getting caught for road traffic offences it certainly does show that the Gardai are out in force on our roads and people need to wise up to this fact. I’m convinced that the problem here is with a minority of people who are becoming complacent on the road and as a result are putting their lives and others at risk. If you are not prepared to buy into the road safety message then unfortunately you are choosing to learn the hard way and risk losing your licence, and just think of the consequences that could have on your job, your family or employment prospects.”

(BMcN/GK)