Date: 08 Oct 2024
Donegal Road Safety Roadshow 2024 Road Safety Message delivered to almost 3,000 Young People
Students from Donegal’s post-primary schools, Youthreach centres as well as schools from Derry and Tyrone are attending the Road Safety Roadshow in the Aura Leisure Centre Complex Letterkenny today Tuesday 8th and tomorrow Wednesday 9th October. These impactful events are hosted by Donegal Road Safety Working Group (DRSWG) in association with Donegal County Council as part of ongoing effort to deliver the county’s road safety plan, focusing on increasing awareness and promoting safer behaviours on the roads.
The Road Safety Roadshow features presentations and first-hand accounts from An Garda Síochána, the National Ambulance Service, Donegal Fire Service, a Consultant based within the Emergency Department of University Hospital Letterkenny, a family member of a road traffic accident victim and a road traffic accident survivor. These real-life experiences are shared alongside music, video clips, television advertisements, and the shows MC and narration by Oisin Kelly Highland Radio with support from Mark Gallagher Highland Radio, creating a powerful and engaging experience.
Speaking about the importance of the Road Safety Roadshow, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Niamh Kennedy stated “These events are a vital part of our road safety programme. Raising awareness and educating our young people about the dangers they can face on the roads is how we can make a lasting difference. We want our young people to stop and think before they get into a car; whether it’s the driver’s fitness to drive, how fast they drive, or simply remembering to wear a seatbelt. By hearing the powerful stories shared and real-life consequences of road traffic collisions we hope to instil a sense of responsibility in young people, both as passengers and future drivers, for their own safety and the safety of others.”
The show highlights the importance of road safety education and awareness, aiming to influence young drivers positively as they begin their driving journey. The presentations serve as a reminder of the daily risks faced on the road and encouraging safer behaviours to protect both drivers and passengers in the years ahead.
Recognising that young people aged 25 and under are among the most vulnerable to fatal or serious road traffic collisions each year, the event places a particular focus on this high-risk group. Inspector Seamus McGonigle An Garda Siochana stated “The annual Road Safety Roadshow is an significant part of the ongoing campaign to prevent deaths on our roads. Secondary school students from across the county are provided with first-hand accounts of the consequences of driving without care and respect. The content resonates with young people and has a positive influence on their behaviour. Unfortunately, young people under 25 continue to be disproportionately represented amongst those killed and seriously injured on the roads”
The Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, John G. McLaughlin added, “The Road Safety Roadshow is an important part of Donegal County Council’s ongoing commitment to improving road safety in our county specifically targeting young drivers who are just starting out. Every death or serious injury on our roads brings grief and greatly affects families and communities. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the speakers involved for their dedication and for sharing their personal stories. Without their commitment, this show – and its vital message - would not be possible.”
