The National Safety Council is urging motorists to take particular care when driving during the August bank holiday weekend, writes Marie O'Halloran. The council's appeal follows the deaths of 16 people in the last 10 days.
The chief executive of the council, Mr Pat Costello, called for drivers to slow down and drive with care, caution and common sense. He added: "Our appeal to drivers is simple and straightforward: do not risk your life or the lives of others by driving at an inappropriate speed. Driving too fast can lead to loss of control with the inevitable result of a crash involving death or serious injury. It is so unnecessary and totally avoidable."
The Garda has announced that there will be a "high-visibility enforcement presence" on the roads over the bank holiday, which is seen as a high-risk time for road accidents and fatalities.