Figures just released today indicate that 72 people have died on Irish roads so far this year. This is 24 less deaths than in the same period last year.
The figure is the lowest level of fatalities in the first half of the year since 2012, when a record low of 80 people died in the period between January and June.
Also today, Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe has announced that members of the Gardai will be able to impose fines of up to 40 for cyclists who commit one of seven newly specified offences; breaking a red light, failure to have a front or rear lamp during lighting up hours, cycling without reasonable consideration, cycling on a pedestrianised street, failing to stop for a school traffic warden and going through a level crossing while red lamps are flashing.