An emotional message from gardaí in Donegal ahead of the bank holiday weekend
"We know as we drive up the laneway of a home that what we are about to say will bring their whole world crashing down around them. It is soul destroying and in many cases it is avoidable."
Gardaí in Donegal have taken to social media to appeal to people to take on the roads this bank holiday weekend, and to remind motorists of the deadly consequences of speeding and substance consumption.
A spokesperson said: "A simple message from us to you in the run up to the August Bank holiday weekend. ]
"We dread going to the scene of a serious or a fatal road traffic collision.
"We really dread having to call to a home to break the worst imaginable news to a family and we do know as we drive up the laneway of a home that what we are about to say will bring their whole world crashing down around them. It is soul destroying and in many cases it is avoidable.
"Please do not ever make the decision to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
"Slow down. Wear your seatbelt.
"The consequences of drink/drug driving and/or speed can be utterly devastating.
"The consequences are also irreversible.
"We hope that you all have a good and a safe Bank Holiday weekend and we ask you to please drive with care for yourself and for others."