160 people were arrested for drink and drug driving while there were over 2,600 instances of speeding recorded.
Assistant Garda Commissioner Paula Hilman said that the level of endangerment encountered on Irish roads over the Bank Holiday weekend was “unacceptable” following four road deaths and a spate of drink and drug driving and speeding offences.
There were four fatalities and 10 serious injuries following incidents on Irish roads last weekend, when there were 2,624 instances of excessive speed recorded.
Some motorists were recorded driving more than 100 km/h over the speed limit, while a driver was clocked doing 203 km/h on the M1 motorway near Drogheda on Saturday (1 August).
Nine people were arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant in the Cavan/Monaghan Garda Division alone, along with five arrests for drug driving and one for dangerous driving.
On Saturday, Gardaí in Monaghan observed a car performing “donuts” at Killyneill Cross in Tyholland; the driver was arrested after a short pursuit and later charged for offences under the road traffic act.
In Kildare, meanwhile, during a joint operation with the RSA, Naas Roads Policing Unit conducted a number of checkpoints which led to the detection of 19 offences in just one day.
Commenting on the figures, Paula Hilman said: “We are deeply saddened by the tragedy seen on our roads this weekend. I want to take this opportunity to send our condolences to all of those affected. An Garda Síochána views any road death as one too many and we will continue to work together with our partners in road safety to reduce road deaths.”
“The level of endangerment we encountered over the weekend is not acceptable, Hilman added.
“Despite our best efforts to proactively engage and educate drivers, too many are still taking chances and putting people’s lives at risk.
“There is simply no place on our roads for people who do not comply with legislation. Every driver must be responsible, and not just think about their own safety, but the safety of their families and loved ones, and the safety of all roads users.
“As a driver you have a responsibility for your passenger and other road users. Drink and drug driving is irresponsible and is a menace on our roads.”
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
