Offaly Roads Policing Unit stop van for violating safety standards

Offaly Roads Policing Unit kicked off the New Year by stopping a packed commercial van.

The van violated safety standards, with passengers in the rear of the vehicle not wearing seat belts. Instead, they were sitting on them, including a 2-year-old child who was completely unrestrained.

Four people were crammed into a three-seater bench seat, including three children aged 9, 10, and 2 years old, alongside an adult.

An extra seat had been added in the back to carry additional passengers, violating safety standards.

In a statement made on social media, An Garda Síochána Laois/Offaly wrote: "This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of road safety laws and the severe risks posed by improper seating and lack of seat belt use.

"These laws are in place to protect everyone, especially vulnerable passengers like children.

"Parents and drivers, we urge you to prioritise the safety of your passengers. Ensure all passengers, regardless of age, are seated properly and restrained according to the law."