Jim Higgins MEP for Ireland North West has warned that unless there are increased numbers of gardaí patrolling roads, the record low number of deaths recorded for 2011 will not be achieved again in 2012.
"We've come a long way in just six years since the RSA was set up. Fellow MEPs on the Transport Committee have asked me during the last two years what exactly Ireland has done to cut the carnage. I tell them that there is no one magic solution to road safety, rather a range of measures such as hard hitting ads, education campaigns, changes to the law, improved infrastructure, the RSA, but above all better respect for the rules of the road by drivers through more visible enforcement by the Garda Traffic Corps. We all have that instant reaction when we see a Garda car to check our speed, and to double-check everyone is belted up.”
The MEP expressed concern about any possible break up of the Garda Traffic Corps. "This would be a disaster for Ireland. In 2011, 186 people were killed on the nation’s roads this year, compared to 212 in 2010, making Ireland's roads the second safest in the EU, just behind Malta. The problem facing us now is how do we continue to reduce the death rate further. Even with the reduced number of deaths in 2011, there are thousands of families facing into the New Year having had a relative either killed or seriously injured. Accidents don't just happen, there are contributory factors and we must ensure we continue to enforce the rules of the road with increased vigour."
Commenting on the recent spate of pedestrians killed on the roads MEP Higgins urged pedestrians and cyclists to light up and wear high visibility vests. "Be safe, be seen. Sadly the message is still not getting through. To motorists, I would say slow down. Cars are lethal weapons, and even the most modern high spec car can kill in just seconds."
He added that the lack of proper services on the inter-urban motorway network was a catastrophe waiting to happen. “Driver fatigue is as dangerous as drink driving,” he said. “A decision needs to be taken to ensure that every 50km or so motorists will have the option to stop at motorway services area for a cup of coffee and a rest. I understand the NRA are planning more service areas at Athlone (M6 ) and Kilcullen (M9 ), but these need to be fast-tracked.”
