Gardaí issue warning to motorists ahead of St. Patrick's weekend in operation plan
Chief Superintendent Jane Humphries warned the decision to drive under the influence 'can either take your life, go on to define it or lead to someone else losing theirs'
An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are appealing to motorists to not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs over the St. Patrick's Weekend.
Ahead of the national holiday, drivers and all other road users are being reminded to plan ahead and organise a safe way home if socialising over the coming days.
An extensive Garda Roads Policing Operation which will take place throughout this St. Patrick’s Bank Holiday Weekend, got underway at 7am this morning, Thursday, March 13 and will run until 7am on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
Every member of An Garda Síochána on-duty this long weekend will be out conducting road traffic enforcement activity.
In a statement to the press, gardaí said: "Anyone who is intending to socialise and have drinks at any point over the long weekend needs to leave their car at home - arrange a designated driver among , pre-book a taxi, use public transport where possible or fix up a lift home from someone they trust who will not be under the influence."
Gardaí have also advised against walking home or cycling under the influence of drugs and alcohol as it can put the individual or other road users at risk.
In the 10 weeks since the turn of the year, 33 people have been killed in fatal road traffic collisions on the roads in Ireland.
Gardaí have outlined they will be focussed on targeting the four offences that are proven to cause fatal and serious collisions including intoxicated driving, speeding, using your mobile phone and not wearing a seatbelt.
Chief Superintendent, Jane Humphries of the Garda National Roads Policing Bureau said: "This weekend will be a big social one for lots of people and we are here to keep the public safe, but we also need everyone’s help to achieve this. Under no circumstances should you get into your car and drive if you have consumed drink or drugs.
"That decision can either take your life, go on to define it or lead to someone else losing theirs."
Michael Rowland, Director of Research, Standards and Assurance at the Road Safety Authority said: "Last year, four people died and 12 were seriously injured in road traffic collisions over the St Patrick’s bank holiday weekend.
"We are asking all road users to take care when out and about this weekend, make plans to avoid intoxicated driving, and to speak up if you see anyone about to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs."