An Garda Síochána will conduct a national speed enforcement operation "Slow Down", supported by the Road Safety Authority and other stakeholders for a 24 hour period from 07.00 hrs on Friday 27th May to 07.00 hrs on Saturday 28th May 2016.

The objective is to reduce the number of speed related collisions, save lives and reduce injuries on our roads. The aim of "Slow Down" is to remind drivers of the dangers of speeding, increase compliance with speed limits and act as a deterrent to driving at excessive and inappropriate speed.

Although 2015 saw a very welcome reduction in road deaths, 27 fewer than in 2014, excessive or inappropriate speed is a major contributory factor to road traffic collisions. The higher the speed, the greater the likelihood is of a collision happening and the more severe the outcome of that collision. As a general rule a 1% reduction in average speed will bring about a 4% reduction in fatal collisions, and this is why reducing motorists' speed is essential to improving road safety. As of today's date there have been 68 road fatalities, 13 more than this date in 2015.

The operation will consist of high visibility speed enforcement activities to include all 1,031 speed enforcement zones, as well as the delivery of a road safety message through the use of national, local and social media. In addition, Garda personnel will man display stands in key venues to provide road safety advice and distribute road safety leaflets.

Government Departments, Local Authorities, Public and private sector fleet operators have been invited to participate in the initiative by circulating employees with the key message to "Slow Down" and, whether driving for business or private purposes, to always drive within the speed limit and at a speed appropriate to the prevailing conditions.

Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid, Garda National Traffic Bureau said today:-

"As of today's date, 13 more people have died on our roads compared to this date last year, with excessive and inappropriate speed being a major factor in many of these collisions. We urgently need to focus on this stark fact and re-double our efforts to ensure our roads are as safe as they can be."

Chief Superintendent Reid continued:-

"We are asking all drivers to support the National "Slow Down" day and not exceed the posted speed limit, but also as importantly, by adjusting their speed to all the road, traffic and weather conditions they face at that time. It goes without saying this is not only for one day, but for every day. We are asking people to support it, slow down and save lives."