Darragh's Soapbox: How do we tackle rising road deaths?
Chelsea and Shaniece gave their views.
At time of publication, there has been 109 deaths on Irish roads this year, 17 higher than in 2023.
In a statement to the Waterford News & Star, RSA said they are reinforcing road safety messaging and initiatives in an attempt to halt the rising figures.
A spokesperson said: "These initiatives are evidence-based, ensuring an outcomes approach to reversing the current trends. They include additional media, education and awareness campaign spending; changes to multiple learner permits; addressing problems re collision data sharing; increased resources to roads policing; development of a national safety camera strategy; and the deployment of 12 new speed cameras."
This week, the RSA will launch a major new TV ad campaign that addresses the rising number of fatalities.
Locals in Waterford was asked what measures could be introduced to reduce deaths on roads.
said tackling speeding should be the focus: “The speed limits are ridiculous and even in the estates people fly around in cars where there are kids on the roads. Very young kids are going into town on their own a lot nowadays, so speed limits anywhere where there are pedestrians walking should be lowered."
said that road safety awareness is critical. “More awareness is needed, more banners and signs on the road that tell people how many have crashed or died. There should be more hard hitting public campaigns to advertise how dangerous roads are."
cited that Ireland should follow the example of neighbouring countries who enforce stricter roads rules: “In other countries, the punishment is far stronger for speeding, driving without a licence etc. If you are caught speeding in countries like Norway, fines are linked to monthly income and in some cases overall wealth. Maybe that should be introduced here."
