An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority have issued a joint appeal urging road users to be cautious and never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol as the bank holiday weekend approaches, reports RTE.
With major events like Bloom in Phoenix Park, Dublin, and BikeFest in Killarney, Co Kerry set to draw large crowds, drivers are being encouraged to stay attentive, avoid distractions, and drive considerately.
The RSA is alerting the public to the increased risk to cyclists and motorcyclists at this time of year, asking motorists to reduce speed and remain aware of those more exposed on the roads, reports RTE.
People are also being reminded to take note of road closures in the Ballsbridge and Donnybrook areas of Dublin due to the Women’s Mini Marathon, which kicks off at 12.30pm on Sunday, June 1. Travelers are urged to plan their journeys in advance.
In sports, the GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Championship match between Cork and Kerry will take place in Cork, with Roscommon facing Meath later that evening, reports RTE.
Sunday will see Derry and Galway clash in Celtic Park, followed by a game between Dublin and Armagh in the capital.
Also on Sunday, the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Minor Championship and the Tailteann Cup will be contested.
So far in 2025, there have been 68 recorded fatalities on Irish roads, reports RTE.
Last weekend alone, four women lost their lives in unrelated crashes in counties Wexford, Clare, Meath, and Tyrone.
In 2024, road traffic incidents claimed the lives of 174 people.
An RSA study revealed that over one-third of driver deaths between 2016 and 2020 involved individuals who tested positive for alcohol, reports RTE.
The data indicates a sharp disparity between peak and off-peak times, with 70% of driver deaths during off-peak hours (10pm–5.59am) testing positive for alcohol, versus just 21% during busier hours.
Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney said the RSA’s findings were extremely worrying.
“The figures show a consistent pattern of people taking deadly risks by driving under the influence, especially at night. My message this weekend is simple: never, ever drink and drive, reports RTE.
“It’s not worth the risk to your life or anyone else’s. I urge everyone to act responsibly and make safe choices on our roads,” reports RTE.
Chief Superintendent David Harrington from the Garda National Roads Policing Bureau emphasized that driving while impaired not only affects performance but strips away the ability to drive safely.
“Some people may take the risk of driving under influence because they believe they won’t encounter gardaí on the road to detect them, but the reality is that we are on the roads conducting checkpoints and are called to the scene of every one of the fatal or serious injury collisions caused by a driver that has been drinking”, reports RTE.
Meanwhile, the Coast Guard, RNLI, and Water Safety Ireland are encouraging the public to be extra cautious near water during the weekend.
Kevin Whitney, Head of Operations Section at the Irish Coast Guard, noted that the June bank holiday usually signals the beginning of summer festivities for many, reports RTE.
“We are urging everyone to be mindful of the dangers, plan ahead, and follow the appropriate safety guidelines for your activity”, reports RTE.
There has been a 10% rise in drowning incidents this year compared to the same period last year.
For safety, people are being advised to monitor weather conditions and tides before heading to the coast, and to be cautious of rip currents in the sea.
Additional tips include:
- Never swim alone and always let someone know your swimming plans.
- Swim only within your depth and remain in that safe zone.
Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid when on or near the water. - If you witness someone in trouble near water or along the coastline, call 112 and request the Coast Guard.
The Health Service Executive has also issued a warning, stating that bank holiday weekends are often very busy for both emergency and community health services, which could result in extended waiting times at emergency departments, reports RTE.
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