Issue Date: 27/10/2026
A Garda Roads Policing operation is taking place throughout the October bank holiday weekend from Thursday, 22nd October to Tuesday, 27th October 2026.
Since the beginning of the Roads Policing operation, there have been three fatalities as a result of three fatal collisions on our roads. The total number of fatalities on Irish roads to date this year is 154.
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 195 people were arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs).
Just over 4,190 drivers were detected for speeding offences during the first four days of the operation.
Notable speeds detected on Monday, 26th October 2026, include: • 100km/h in a 50km/h zone on Church Road, Carndonagh, Co. Donegal • 83km/h in a 60km/h zone on the N81 at Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare • 159km/h in an 80km/h zone on the R178 at Dundalk, Co. Louth • 135km/h in a 100km/h zone on the N7 at Kill, Co. Kildare
In the first five days of the operation, more than 380 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.
