The National Transport Authority (NTA) has confirmed that these cameras will be installed at the busiest junctions and along bus lanes within the first half of 2025. There are also plans to extend this initiative to other cities, including Cork, Limerick, and Galway, by the end of the year. The cameras will not only catch motorists running red lights but also those blocking yellow boxes or illegally using bus lanes.

In contrast to this technological advancement, a new Garda policy on car chases has come under fire. The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has criticised the policy, describing it as “unworkable” and claiming it gives free rein to drivers who refuse to stop. The policy, which instructs Gardaí to abandon pursuits in many instances, has led to concerns about public safety and the ability of law enforcement to effectively manage dangerous driving situations.

The GRA has highlighted several cases where Gardaí did not pursue fleeing vehicles, raising fears that this could embolden reckless drivers and lead to more dangerous incidents on the roads. The association argues that the strict rules are causing officers to hesitate, fearing disciplinary action or prosecution if something goes wrong during a chase.

This new policy has sparked a debate about the balance between ensuring public safety and protecting Gardaí from potential legal repercussions. Critics argue that while the intention behind the policy is to minimise risks during high-speed chases, it may inadvertently encourage more drivers to evade law enforcement.

As Dublin moves forward with the installation of red-light cameras, the city hopes to see a significant reduction in traffic violations and an improvement in road safety. However, the controversy surrounding the Garda pursuit policy highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public safety while navigating complex legal and operational constraints.

The HSE’s report, which draws on data from the Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) system, reveals that 1,345 cyclists were discharged from hospitals in 2023, with a similar number, 1,373, recorded in 2022. These figures only account for publicly-funded acute hospitals and do not capture all injuries related to bicycle use.

The most common injuries among cyclists were to the head, elbows, and forearms. In 2023, 263 cyclists suffered head injuries, while 274 had damage to their elbows or forearms, often from landing after a fall. Other frequent injuries included damage to the shoulder and upper arm, with 183 cases reported, and injuries to the thorax, abdomen, lower back, lumbar spine, or pelvis.

The HSE’s data also sheds light on the causes of these accidents. In 2023, 154 injuries were the result of collisions with cars, pick-up trucks, or vans. A significant number of cases, 891, were classified as “non-collision transport accidents,” which include incidents where cyclists fell off their bikes without colliding with another vehicle. Additionally, 300 cases were listed as “other,” encompassing collisions with pedestrians, animals, stationary objects, or accidents involving motorbikes, trains, or light rail trams.

The HSE noted that their system does not record all cases where an injured cyclist visited a hospital. The data only includes patients who attended the Emergency Department and were subsequently admitted to the hospital. This means that the actual number of cycling-related injuries could be higher, as the figures do not account for emergency department or outpatient attendances.

The news of these statistics has sparked discussions on social media platforms like Reddit. Users on the r/ireland subreddit expressed their concerns and shared personal experiences related to cycling safety. Some users highlighted the need for better infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic laws to protect cyclists. Others pointed out the importance of wearing helmets and other protective gear to reduce the severity of injuries in case of an accident.

One user commented, “It’s shocking to see such high numbers. We need more dedicated cycling lanes and better awareness among drivers to ensure the safety of cyclists.” Another user added, “I’ve had a few close calls myself. It’s crucial to always wear a helmet and be vigilant on the roads.”

The rising number of cycling-related injuries has prompted calls for action from various quarters. Advocacy groups are urging the government to invest in safer cycling infrastructure, such as dedicated bike lanes and improved road signage. There is also a push for public awareness campaigns to educate both cyclists and motorists about road safety.

In response to the report, a spokesperson for the HSE emphasised the importance of safety measures for cyclists. “We encourage all cyclists to wear helmets and reflective clothing, especially during the darker months. It’s also vital for drivers to be mindful of cyclists and share the road responsibly.”

Cyclists in Ireland are significantly more likely to be injured in serious crashes compared to drivers. Statistics indicate that cyclists are 11 times more likely to be injured in such incidents. These crashes often involve another vehicle, typically a car. The average claim for injuries sustained by cyclists in these accidents is approximately €27,837, highlighting the financial impact of these incidents.

New Fee Structure:

• Driving Licence: The cost will rise from €55 to €65.
• Learner Permit: The fee will increase from €35 to €45.
• Full NCT Test: The price will go up from €55 to €60.
• NCT Retest: The cost will increase from €28 to €40.
• Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT): There will be a 15% increase in the pre-VAT cost. For example, the cost for vehicles under 3,500kg will rise from €92.91 to €106.85 before VAT. Vehicles with more than eight seats but less than 14 will see the cost increase from €193.82 to €222.89 before VAT.

The RSA stated that these fee adjustments are necessary to support planned expenditures of €18 million on public interest activities and government priorities. The changes are part of the RSA’s business planning for 2025.

In November, it was announced that the RSA would be disbanded and split into two independent agencies following a government-approved plan. An independent external review recommended this restructuring and suggested that fees for RSA customer services be reviewed due to the current unsustainable funding model. The review indicated that fee increases would likely be needed in 2025, with modest increases in subsequent years, conditional on meeting service level targets.

The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has criticised the fee hikes, calling them unjustifiable given the government’s plans to abolish the RSA. IRHA President Ger Hyland described the increases as a “shock” and a “Christmas present” for RSA customers, arguing that it sends the wrong message about an authority that has failed to fulfil its mandate effectively.

The RSA has defended the fee increases, stating that they are essential to maintain and improve the quality of services provided. The authority highlighted that the fees have remained unchanged for over a decade, despite rising operational costs and the need for investment in new technologies and infrastructure.

The fee increase for the NCT and driving licences is expected to impact a significant number of drivers across Ireland. The NCT is a mandatory test for all vehicles over four years old, aimed at ensuring that vehicles on Irish roads are safe and roadworthy. The driving licence fee increase will affect both new drivers applying for their first licence and existing drivers renewing their licences.

The RSA has also announced plans to introduce new measures to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its services. These include the implementation of an online booking system for NCT appointments, the introduction of digital driving licences, and the expansion of the RSA’s customer service team to handle increased demand.

Despite the backlash from the IRHA and other stakeholders, the RSA remains committed to its mission of promoting road safety and reducing the number of road accidents and fatalities in Ireland. The authority has urged drivers to view the fee increases as an investment in their safety and the overall safety of Irish roads.

As the new fees come into effect, the RSA has promised to monitor the impact of the changes and make adjustments if necessary. The authority has also pledged to continue working closely with stakeholders to address any concerns and ensure that the transition to the new fee structure is as smooth as possible.

The Gardaí have confirmed that three people were taken to Letterkenny University Hospital as a precaution.

The crash involved a Bus Éireann Expressway bus, which was carrying up to 13 passengers.

The road has been closed, and local diversions are in place. Motorists are advised to find alternative routes. Bus Éireann staff are at the scene, helping those involved in the crash.

A spokesperson for Bus Éireann said an investigation will be carried out.

“Bus Éireann can confirm that one of our coaches on Route 64, from Sligo to Derry, was involved in a collision this morning just after 10am at Manorcunningham.

“Local emergency services and Bus Éireann staff are at the scene, providing all necessary support. The collision will be investigated according to our usual procedures.

“The safety of our passengers, staff, and the public is very important to Bus Éireann. We thank the Gardaí and emergency services for their quick response to the incident.”

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has highlighted that the majority of these fatalities are due to speeding, reckless driving, and failure to adhere to road safety regulations. The increase in road deaths has not only affected families and communities but has also placed a significant burden on emergency services and healthcare systems. The RSA is now pushing for immediate and effective measures to curb this alarming trend.

One of the key strategies being considered to curb speeding and improve road safety is the expansion of static speed camera locations. These cameras, strategically placed at high-risk areas, have been shown to deter speeding and reduce accidents. The RSA is advocating for an increase in the number of these cameras, particularly in regions with a high incidence of road traffic collisions. By enhancing surveillance and enforcement, the RSA aims to create a safer driving environment and reduce the likelihood of fatal accidents.

The new static speed safety cameras will be operational by the end of 2024 at the following locations:

1. Galway: N59, between Moycullen and Galway City
2. Waterford: N25, between Glenmore and Luffany
3. Wicklow: R772, Arklow Road, Aske, north of Gorey
4. Donegal: N14, east of Letterkenny
5. Carlow: N80, between Barristown and Levitstown
6. Dublin: Crumlin Road/Parnell Road/Dolphin Road/Dolphin’s Barn Junction
7. Mayo: N17, northeast of Claremorris
8. Cork: N22, east of Lissarda and west of Ovens
9. Limerick: N69, east of Askeaton

These locations were selected based on data from fatal and serious injury collisions, as well as speed data and feedback from stakeholders. The aim is to reduce speeding and improve road safety in these high-risk areas. The RSA believes that by targeting these specific locations, they can significantly impact driver behaviour and reduce the number of accidents.

In addition to expanding speed camera coverage, the RSA is proposing a new initiative that offers drivers caught speeding a choice between traditional penalties and educational courses. Under this plan, drivers would have the option to either accept a fine and penalty points on their licence or attend a speed awareness course. The course is designed to educate drivers on the dangers of speeding and promote safer driving habits.

Supporters of this initiative argue that education can be more effective than punitive measures in changing long-term driver behaviour. By understanding the consequences of speeding, drivers may be more likely to adhere to speed limits and drive responsibly. The RSA believes that this dual approach—combining enforcement with education—could significantly reduce speeding incidents and, consequently, road fatalities.

The speed awareness course would cover various aspects of road safety, including the physics of speed, the impact of collisions, and the emotional and financial consequences of accidents. Participants would also hear from victims of road accidents and their families, providing a powerful reminder of the real-life implications of dangerous driving.

Public reaction to the proposal has been mixed. Some drivers welcome the opportunity to avoid penalty points and learn more about road safety, while others are sceptical about the effectiveness of the course. Critics argue that the option to attend a course might be seen as a way to escape punishment, potentially undermining the deterrent effect of fines and penalty points.

The RSA is currently working on the details of the programme, including the curriculum and the logistics of implementation. If successful, this initiative could be rolled out nationwide, providing a consistent approach to handling speeding offences. The success of these initiatives will depend on their implementation and the willingness of drivers to embrace safer driving practices.

The RSA’s proposal is part of a broader effort to achieve the goals set out in Ireland’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030. This strategy aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero road deaths by 2050. The strategy includes a range of measures, from infrastructure improvements to public awareness campaigns, all designed to create a safer road environment for all users.

The new laws will significantly enhance the capabilities of An Garda Síochána (the Irish police force) in monitoring drivers on the road. One of the key changes is the requirement for motorists to provide their driver’s licence number when seeking motor insurance policies. This applies not only to the primary driver but also to any additional named drivers on the policy.

This measure aims to crack down on uninsured driving, a persistent issue on Irish roads. By having access to the Irish Motor Insurance Database via their Garda Mobility Devices, officers will be better equipped to detect and penalise those driving without insurance.

Drivers who fail to comply with these new regulations risk having their licences taken away. This is part of a broader effort to ensure that all drivers on the road are properly insured and adhering to the law. The inclusion of driver numbers in the insurance process is seen as a critical step in this direction.

Transport Minister Jack Chambers has confirmed that the government is committed to stopping the practice of drivers continuously renewing their learner licences without passing the driving test. This new road safety initiative aims to ensure that only qualified drivers are on the road, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall road safety.

The new laws will also affect learner and novice drivers, who will face stricter penalties if they accumulate seven or more penalty points on their licence. This threshold is lower than the 12 points required for fully licensed drivers, reflecting the government’s focus on ensuring that new drivers develop safe driving habits from the outset.

Learner drivers who repeatedly fail their driving tests will be banned from the roads, preventing them from continuously renewing their learner permits without demonstrating the necessary driving competence.

Another significant change is the introduction of roadside licence checks by Gardaí. Under the new laws, officers will be able to check a driver’s licence number at the roadside, ensuring that all drivers are properly licensed and insured. This measure is expected to improve compliance and reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road.

The new laws are part of a broader effort to enhance road safety in Ireland. By ensuring that all drivers are properly licensed and insured, the government hopes to reduce the number of accidents and improve overall road safety. These changes are expected to come into effect within the next three years, giving drivers time to adjust to the new requirements.

The fines, which range from €40 to €150, are imposed for various parking violations. Parking in a disabled spot incurs a €150 fine, while parking on footpaths, cycle tracks, or bus lanes costs €80. Failing to display a correct tax disc results in a €60 fine, and not having a valid pay-and-display ticket costs €40.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many councils had relaxed parking enforcement and some traffic wardens were reassigned to assist the Health Service Executive (HSE). However, with the easing of pandemic restrictions, councils have increased the number of traffic wardens, leading to a surge in parking fines.

Among Ireland’s 31 local councils, 23 reported an increase in parking fines. Galway City Council, Cork City Council, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Waterford City and County Council, Kerry County Council, and Westmeath County Council recorded the highest number of fines per 100,000 people.

Galway City Council, which now employs 11 traffic wardens with one more joining soon, issued 36,645 parking fines last year, up from 30,517 in 2022. Cork City Council issued 49,511 fines, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown issued 29,845, Kerry County Council issued 17,674, and Westmeath County Council issued 7,424 fines. With a population of just over 96,000, Westmeath had one of the highest rates of parking fines.

Donegal County Council and Dublin City Council also saw significant increases in fines. In Donegal, the number of fines more than doubled, with 10,018 fines issued last year compared to 4,892 in 2022.

The increase in traffic wardens and subsequent rise in parking fines have generated millions of euros in revenue for local councils, highlighting the impact of stricter parking enforcement across the country.

The Garda spokesperson emphasised that the portal is designed for non-emergency situations, urging the public to continue using emergency numbers 999 or 112 for urgent cases. The online portal for reporting traffic incidents allows users to fill out a reporting form, which is then logged by the Garda Information Services Centre in Dublin. Once logged, the report is forwarded to the local superintendent responsible for the Community Engagement Area relevant to the incident.

In cases where an investigation is deemed necessary, a member of An Garda Síochána will be assigned to follow up on the report. The officer will then reach out to the individual who submitted the report. If an offence is believed to have occurred, a file is submitted to the superintendent who will decide the next course of action. The complainant will be informed of the outcome, ensuring transparency in the process.

Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, who leads Roads Policing and Community Engagement, spoke at the launch of the new portal. She highlighted the significance of Traffic Watch over the years as a vital tool for responsible road users to report dangerous driving behaviors. “The online reporting form provides an updated process through which members of the public can report non-emergency information to An Garda Síochána,” she said.

This new online portal for reporting traffic incidents represents a significant step forward in enhancing road safety across the country. By empowering the public to report careless and aggressive driving, An Garda Síochána is reinforcing its commitment to protecting all road users.

Emergency services were quick to respond, rushing the boy to a nearby hospital. He is currently being treated for his injuries, which are considered serious but not life-threatening.

The accident has sparked concerns about the safety of emergency exits on buses. Authorities are investigating how the door opened while the bus was moving. The bus company has expressed deep concern and is cooperating fully with the investigation.

Schoolboy Injured After Falling Out of Moving Bus on M50

Parents and schools are reminded to ensure children are seated and safe while traveling on buses, especially when using emergency exits.

The boy’s family has requested privacy as they focus on his recovery.