Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will be brief. I welcome the passing of the Bill. The recent surge in road fatalities is deeply concerning with 188 lives lost in 2023 alone, marking the highest toll since 2014. As we conclude on this Bill, let us remember the lives lost and the families left devastated by these preventable accidents. It is imperative that we, as legislators, take decisive steps to curb dangerous driving practices and improve road safety for all.

One key aspect of the proposed legislation is the enhancement of the penalty points system which has proven effective in deterring reckless driving since its introduction in 2002. The changes outlined in the Bill are crucial in this regard and will be welcomed by responsible citizens throughout the country.

Across this country, people mark fatal accident spots with memorial plaques, flowers, statues and other temporary and bespoke features. I propose that it is something the Government and Deputy Jack Chambers, as he is the Minister of State, might look at. I propose the Government consider a national accident memorial plaque to mark places on our roadways where people have lost their lives, not only as a way to honour the victims but also to have a recognisable national symbol of road deaths. A distinctive recognisable symbol would act as a way to not only formally encourage road users to slow down but to also emotionally, even unconsciously, process the potential danger of their surroundings. It is an idea Deputy Jack Chambers, as Minister of State, might consider.

I welcome this Bill's passing this afternoon. I am happy to support this vital legislation and the proactive measures being taken by the Government to improve road safety. We cannot afford half-measures in addressing this critical issue, especially as the population grows and road traffic increases.