In 123 cases where the fines were paid, gardaí said they will issue refunds.

The motorists appeared at a sitting of Letterkenny District Court

Figures are likely to be considerably higher once An Garda Síochána personnel detections, which are not available at the moment, are added

They will be checking motorists over Christmas and the New Year to prevent further deaths.

The Taoiseach has said there was a need for a return of shock ads to raise public awareness of the issue.

Minister of State Jack Chambers said he wants to bring a comprehensive response following a "shocking" rise in road fatalities