'Slow Down' For All Ireland

In advance of the All-Ireland football final which takes place on Sunday week, (18th September), An Garda Síochána is appealing to all road users to stay safe when travelling to and from the match.

In particular, Gardaí are asking young drivers, and their passengers, to be aware of the dangers of excessive or inappropriate speed and not to exceed the speed limit at any time.

With almost 100,000 people heading to Dublin for the football final, either to Croke Park itself or to watch the match in a venue nearby or in the home of a friend or family member, Gardaí are appealing to people never to drive over the speed limit, and to slow down if weather conditions deteriorate or where there are a lot of pedestrians or other vulnerable road users.

In the run up to the GAA football final, and continuing until the October Bank Holiday and beyond, Gardaí will be maintaining a particular focus on speeding on the roads, in particular among younger drivers.

Already in 2010, more than 100,000 people have been detected driving above the speed limit.

Speed is one of the major factors which cause deaths and serious injuries on our roads and Gardaí are asking people to bear this in mind when planning their journey and while they are on the road.

Research conducted by the Road Safety Authority shows that excessive speed is a factor in one-third of collisions. Excessive speed is also a factor in over half of all single vehicle collisions.

"If you're travelling to Dublin to attend the match, or driving down the road to watch it with friends and family, be aware of this: speed is a major factor in road deaths and serious injuries.

"Speed kills so slow down, leave yourself plenty of time and don’t assume that exceeding the speed limit has no consequences," said a police spokesman.

"We are appealing to everyone, and in particular drivers aged 16-30, to drive safely and slowly. Ask yourself do you want to become the next fatality?

"Don't take any chances and keep within the speed limits at all times.

"We are appealing to those remaining at home this weekend to remind drivers, as they head to the match, to drive carefully, not to speed and to return home safe and sound."

(BMcC/KMcA)