Gardaí Crack Down on Speeding and Intoxicated Driving Over St. Brigid’s Bank Holiday Weekend
An Garda Síochána has released the final update on its St. Brigid’s Bank Holiday Weekend Roads Policing Operation, which ran from January 30th to February 4th. The nationwide operation aimed to tackle dangerous driving, intoxicated driving, and excessive speeding, with high-visibility checkpoints and mandatory intoxicant testing carried out across the country.
During the five days, just under 200 motorists were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, highlighting ongoing concerns about impaired driving. Meanwhile, more than 2,200 drivers were caught speeding, with Limerick among the counties where excessive speeds were recorded.
Notably, a driver was detected travelling 126kph in a 60kph zone on the N20 in Bruree, while another was caught doing 142kph in an 80kph zone on the R512 in Bruff. These incidents occurred despite reduced traffic levels as communities across Ireland dealt with the effects of Storm Éowyn.
The bank holiday weekend also saw four fatalities on Irish roads, bringing the total number of road deaths this year to 15. In light of this, Gardaí have renewed their appeal for motorists to slow down and remain vigilant.
As road safety remains a priority, Gardaí continue to encourage drivers to give their full attention to the road, adhere to speed limits, and make responsible choices behind the wheel.
From February 7, 2025, the speed limit on rural local roads in Limerick will be reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/h under new national regulations aimed at improving road safety. Read more >>