Over 38,500 Killed On Roads In Ireland And NI

Over 38,500 have been killed on roads in Ireland and Northern Ireland since records began.

A total of 14,767 people have been killed on roads in Northern Ireland since deaths were first recorded in 1931.

23,752 people have been killed on roads in the Republic of Ireland since records began in 1959.

All those who died in road traffic collisions will be remembered on the World Day of Remembrance on Sunday, 15 November.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: "Road safety is a continuous challenge and road deaths do not discriminate. All road users are vulnerable, every journey, every day, every road. The certainty of the unexpected means that it is crucial to reduce speed, wear seatbelts and eliminate high risk behaviours.

"I am fully committed to improving safety for all road users. I firmly believe that by working together, we can rise to the challenge of making our roads safer for everyone."

Mr Durkan, and the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe TD, as well as the Road Safety Authority (RSA), An Garda Síochána, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Fire & Rescue Services, Local Authorities and road safety groups, are calling on road-users to join the international community in remembering all those who have lost their lives in road traffic collisions.

Ms Liz O'Donnell, Chairperson of the Road Safety Authority said: "We are delighted to team up with our colleagues in Northern Ireland to raise awareness of this very important day. In addition to those who have lost their lives thousands more have suffered serious, life-changing injuries. World Day of Remembrance' reminds us how easily tragedy can happen but by making small changes to our behaviour on the roads, we can all help to prevent future tragedy. Never underestimate the role we as individuals can play in saving lives, each and every time we use the roads. Let’s all work together to share the roads responsibly."

(CD/LM)