Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

A total of 16 people lost their lives on roads in Tipperary last year. This was more than double the number who died on the county's roads the previous year, making Tipperary the county with the highest number of road fatalities in 2023. Nationally, fatalities occurred across all categories of road users, including drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, pedal cyclists and pedestrians. Sadly, this year is already revealing grim statistics, with a high proportion of fatalities in the under-30 age group.

In response, fingers point immediately at the Garda. In times of grief, it is human nature to target somebody. The Garda responded last week by revealing plans to allocate to every garda on duty at least 30 minutes of road policing activity during every shift. That decision is welcome but it can only address one aspect of the problem. Gardaí cannot be everywhere all of the time. Ongoing and hard-hitting education and awareness campaigns on the dangers of driving while under the influence of mind-altering substances must be a major focus. Campaigns on drink and drug driving may not be pleasant but they create awareness and save lives.

Poor road conditions can result in accidents, particularly at night. The recent incessant rain has caused serious damage to many roads across the country. Unlit roads in rural locations are particularly hazardous. Regional roads have also been ravaged by persistent heavy rainfall. Tipperary County Council is in urgent need of additional Government funding to address road repairs. In many cases, the work it has already carried out has been eroded by unrelenting rain, leaving treacherous conditions for unsuspecting motorists. With funding depleted, its hands are tied. This must be rectified with additional funding. Accident black spots have been identified across Tipperary and throughout the country. A special fund should be made available to local authorities to carry out works to make those black spots safe. This would require a managed and co-ordinated programme of funded works.

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