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25/10/2026 Update 3 – October Bank Holiday Roads Policing Operation, Thursday 22nd October to Tuesday 27th October 2026

Issue Date: 25/10/2026

A Garda Roads Policing operation is taking place throughout the October bank holiday weekend from Thursday, 22nd October to Tuesday, 27th October 2026.

Three days into the operation, there have been two fatalities as a result of two fatal collisions on our roads. The total number of fatalities on Irish roads to date this year is 153.

Throughout this weekend's Roads Policing operation, Gardaí are conducting both statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing checkpoints and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints.
To date under this operation, a total of 77 people were arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs).

Just over 2,311 drivers were detected for speeding offences during the first three days of the operation.

Notable speeds detected on Saturday 24th October 2026, include:

• 99km/h in a 50km/h zone on the R183, Doohamlet, Co Monaghan
• 99km/h in a 60km/h zone on the R293 Lisacul, Co Roscommon
• 121km/h in an 80km/h zone on the R520, Newcastlewest Co Limerick
• 139km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N18, Ballinacurra Weston, Co Limerick

In the first three days of the operation, more than 250 drivers were detected holding a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt.

An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority are urging all road users to support their efforts to keep people safe on the roads this October bank holiday weekend.

An Garda Síochána is urging road users to be mindful of and take extra care around vulnerable road users, in particular pedestrians and cyclists.

Cyclists and pedestrians should ensure they are clearly visible in darker conditions and always observe their surroundings.

Road safety needs to be a priority for everyone.

Slow down and adhere to the speed limit. Never drive under the influence of drink or drugs. Wear your seatbelt and don’t get distracted by mobile devices when you are driving.
All road users have a part to play in people arriving at their destination safely this weekend.