Issue Date: 05/05/2026
An Garda Síochána carried out an extensive Roads Policing Operation from Thursday 30th April to today, Tuesday 5th May 2026 to ensure road safety during the bank holiday weekend.
During this period, there were two fatalities on our roads and five (5) serious injury collisions. To date a total of 57 fatalities on our roads for this year.
More than 3,950 drivers were detected for speeding during the operation.
Throughout the operation, Gardaí conducted both statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints. A total of 165 people were arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs).
Notable speeds detected yesterday, Monday 4th May 2026 operation include:
- 83km/h in a 50km/h zone on Davitt Road, Dublin 12
- 121km/h in a 60km/h zone on R417 Maganey Lower, Co. Kildare
- 137km/h in a 80km/h zone on R39, Knockagowny, Co. Longford
- 138km/h in a 100km/h zone on R238, Buncrana, Co. Donegal
In this period, in excess of 300 drivers were detected for holding a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt.
During a road traffic checkpoint over the bank holiday weekend, Gardaí in Co. Cork detected a driver (30s) who tested positive for cocaine. In a search of the vehicle, Gardaí also found 5kg of suspected cannabis. The driver was arrested and is now before the courts.
An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to all road users to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, to slow down and to always choose a speed that is appropriate for the driving conditions, to wear your seatbelt and keep your eyes always on the road.
Motorists are reminded to keep distractions out of the vehicle and give your full attention to the road.
