Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As of yesterday, the total number of fatalities on the roads in 2013 is 178, an increase of 21 on the same period last year.  There have been 450 serious injuries as a result of collisions in the year to date. This compares to 487 for the full year of 2012.

The increase in this year's figures is of great concern.  It is the first reversal of the downward trend of recent years. As the Deputy will know, the number of fatalities for 2012, at 162, was the lowest annual figure recorded since records began. There is no clear reason for the increase or evidence that it represents a trend. I met recently all of the bodies and agencies with responsibility for road safety, including the Garda and the Road Safety Authority, RSA, to ensure all necessary measures were identified and taken to reverse this year's situation and improve safety on the roads.

Earlier this year I launched the road safety strategy 2013-20. It contains 144 actions to be implemented by the various agencies involved to build on the previous strategies with the objective of improving safety, sustainably on the roads and making Ireland among the safest countries for road safety.  I am also in the process of bringing through the Oireachtas the Road Traffic (No. 2) Bill 2013 which contains measures that will contribute to the road safety improvements. The new strategy was developed by the RSA, the principal role of which is the promotion of road safety. I am satisfied that the RSA receives all of the necessary resources and assistance it requires from my Department in carrying out its functions.

At this time of year I appeal particularly to all road users to be extra careful and vigilant for the remainder of the year and into 2014. All of us who use the road have a responsibility of care to ourselves and those with whom we share the road.

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