An appeal has been launched by An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority calling on road users to be vigilant and never to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs ahead of the bank holiday weekend.
With large crowds expected to travel to large events like Bloom in Dublin's Phoenix Park and BikeFest in Killarney, Co Kerry, drivers are reminded to stay alert, avoid distractions, and share the road responsibly.
The RSA is reminding the public that this time of year typically sees an increase in cyclist and motorcyclist casualties, asking drivers to slow down and be mindful of vulnerable road users.
The public is also being asked to be aware of road closures in the Ballsbridge and Donnybrook area of Dublin as a result of the Women's Mini Marathon which begins at 12.30pm on Sunday 1 June, and to plan ahead.
The GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Championship between Cork and Kerry will be taking place in Cork, while Roscommon takes on Meath later on Saturday evening.
On Sunday, Derry takes on Galway in Celtic Park, followed by Dublin and Armagh in the capital.
The GAA Hurling All-Ireland Minor Championship and Tailteann Cup also takes place on Sunday.
So far this year, 68 people have died on Irish roads.
Last weekend, four women were killed in separate incidents in counties Wexford, Clare, Meath and Tyrone.
In 2024, a total of 174 people died as a result of road traffic collisions.
Analysis by the RSA has found that over one third of driver fatalities during the years 2016-2020 had a positive toxicology report result for alcohol.
The analysis shows a stark contrast between off-peak and peak hours, as 70% of driver fatalities during off-peak hours (10pm–5.59am) had a positive toxicology for alcohol, compared to 21% during peak times.
Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney said the RSA data was deeply concerning.
"The figures show a consistent pattern of people taking deadly risks by driving under the influence, especially at night. My message this weekend is simple: never, ever drink and drive.
"It's not worth the risk to your life or anyone else’s. I urge everyone to act responsibly and make safe choices on our roads."
Chief Superintendent David Harrington of the Garda National Roads Policing Bureau said that driving under the influence not only impairs your driving performance but removes the capacity to drive safely.
"Some people may take the risk of driving under influence because they believe they won’t encounter gardaí on the road to detect them, but the reality is that we are on the roads conducting checkpoints and are called to the scene of every one of the fatal or serious injury collisions caused by a driver that has been drinking".
Meanwhile the Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are urging the public to take extra precautions in and around water over the weekend.
Kevin Whitney, Head of Operations Section at the Irish Coast Guard, said the June bank holiday typically marks the start of summer celebrations for many.
"We are urging everyone to be mindful of the dangers, plan ahead, and follow the appropriate safety guidelines for your activity".
There has been a 10% increase in drownings so far this year, compared to the same period last year.
To stay safe, the public is advised to check the weather and tides before going to the shore, and be aware of rip currents at sea.
Other advice includes:
- Never swim alone, and inform someone of your plans to go swimming.
- Always swim within your depth and stay within your depth.
- When on the water always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid.
If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast, dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
The Health Service Executive has warned that bank holiday weekends are usually a busy time for acute and community health services and may result in long wait times at emergency departments.
