LIVE: Major garda operation under way in Kilkenny
One of the most significant speeding detections recorded during the operation so far was on the N24 at Belline and Rogerstown, Piltown, County Kilkenny
A major garda roads policing operation is currently under way across Kilkenny and the rest of the country this August Bank Holiday weekend, with one motorist in the county detected travelling at 142km/h in a 100km/h zone.
The nationwide enforcement campaign, which began on Thursday, July 30, will continue until Tuesday, August 4, with Gardaí carrying out high-visibility checkpoints, speed enforcement and mandatory intoxicant testing in a bid to reduce serious collisions on Irish roads.
One of the most significant speeding detections recorded during the operation so far was on the N24 at Belline and Rogerstown, Piltown, where a driver was clocked travelling at 142km/h in a 100km/h zone on Friday, July 31.
The Kilkenny incident was among a number of excessive speeds detected across the country, including a vehicle travelling at 172km/h on the M1 in Swords, 127km/h in an 80km/h zone in Laois and 126km/h in a 60km/h zone in Clonmel.
According to An Garda Síochána, more than 1,590 motorists were detected speeding during the first two days of the operation alone.
Gardaí also arrested 39 people on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the same period, while a further 200 drivers were detected either using a mobile phone behind the wheel or failing to wear a seatbelt.
Despite the high number of offences detected, Gardaí confirmed there were no road fatalities during the first two days of the operation. However, 108 people have lost their lives on Irish roads so far this year.
The August Bank Holiday roads policing campaign is targeting what Gardaí describe as the "four lifesaver offences":
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of an intoxicant
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Not wearing a seatbelt
Gardaí are urging all road users to take extra care over the busy Bank Holiday weekend, reminding motorists to obey speed limits, never drive under the influence of drink or drugs, wear a seatbelt and avoid distractions while driving.
The nationwide operation remains in place until Tuesday, with increased Garda visibility expected on roads across Kilkenny and the rest of the country.