The latest figures from the Road Safety Authority and gardaí show there has been a 3% increase in road deaths in the first six months of this year, compared to the same period in 2017.
78 people have died on Irish roads in 73 collisions during 2018 so far.
The highest number of fatalities was in Cork, where 11 deaths occurred, followed by Tipperary with seven and Dublin with six.
In total 39 drivers and 12 passengers, 18 pedestrians, six cyclists and three motorcyclists have died on the roads in 2018.
Speaking at the launch of the figures, Minister for Transport Shane Ross described filibustering in the Dáil last week over the road traffic bill as unforgivable.
Mr Ross said there was no way to defend delaying the road traffic bill and that those who did should reflect on their behaviour and vow never to do it again.
Mr Ross said they should meet some of the families who have lost loved ones on the roads.
He described what happened in the Dáil in the last six months as "parliamentary vandalism".
Mr Ross added that the bill goes to the Seanad tomorrow and he hopes it will pass by the summer recess.
In response, Independent TD Michael Healy Rae, who opposed the bill, said the minister was inciting people against those who opposed the bill.
He also said that he meets relatives of road victims on a regular basis and has been doing so for many years.
