New Cork safety campaign aims to address disturbing rise in the number road deaths

THE disturbing rise in road deaths across the country has prompted Cork County Council, An Garda Síochána and Cork GAA to join forces for a new poster based road safety campaign.

Statistics from provisional road traffic collision figures on New Years Day revealed a 19% increase in road deaths nationally in 2023. A total of 184 lives were lost in 173 collisions, compared to 155 deaths in 149 collisions in 2022.

Figures from An Garda Síochána showed that, as of Monday, January15, 10 people had lost their lives on Irish roads so far this year – two more than at the same time last year.

Aimed at appealing to road users to exercise caution and promote shared responsibility on our roads, the new campaigns message is a simple and clear one: ‘Be a Team Player, Think Road Safety’.

It emphasises the importance of slowing down, wearing safety belts, avoiding distractions such as mobile phones, and never driving under the influence.

While also acknowledging the roads as a shared space for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, scooters and motorcyclists, the campaign urges everyone to look out for each other.

Endorsing the campaign the Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn, in particular stressed the importance of adults modelling safe road behaviour to younger people in their communities.

“So, set the example every time you use the road, be the adult who puts the phone down, puts on your safety belt and insists that all passengers in the car do so, observes speed limits, slows down and is respectful of all road users,” said Mr O’Flynn.

“And never drive under the influence,” he added.

Cork based garda superintendent Michael Corbett said that as  on the playing pitch, where players are encouraged to give and get respect, “the message is similar on our roads”.

“We are reminding all road users to respect each other while out on the roads for a safer journey."

The new joint road safety campaign will see signage erected at Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Pairc Ui Rinn and in numerous GAA grounds around the county in the next month to remind the public that unlike a mistake on the field, a mistake on the road could cost you your life.

Pat Horgan, Chairperson of Cork GAA said: “Cork GAA is delighted to be part of this initiative, safety is always paramount especially while driving. We encourage everyone to stay safe both on and off the pitch. Always wear a seatbelt while driving, wear a high visibility vest when out walking, running or stewarding.”