An Garda Síochána continue Christmas Road Safety Operation

An Garda Síochána commenced its Christmas and New Year Road Safety Enforcement Operation on Thursday, November 30 which will run until 7am on Thursday, January 4, 2024.

As of now, 177 lives have been lost in road traffic collisions on Irish roads, marking a concerning increase of 30 deaths compared to the same period last year. The operation specifically targets the hazards of driving under the influence, lack of seatbelt use, speeding, and mobile phone use while driving.

From December 1 to December 14, 2023, there were five fatalities on Irish roads, a decrease from seven during the same period in 2022 and three in 2019.

During the ongoing operation, An Garda Síochána has arrested 308 drivers for suspected driving under the influence of an intoxicant, including 86 for drug driving. In excess of 1,400 MIT checkpoints have been carried out.

Fixed charge notices issued by An Garda Síochána between December 1 and December 14, 2023 for key lifesaver offences include in excess of 5,500 for driving in excess of the speed limits and 360 for use of mobile phones.

An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to motorists to drive safely on our roads this Christmas and New Year, never drive under the influence of an intoxicant, reduce speed, always wear a seatbelt and never use a mobile phone while driving.