This improvement aligns with the government’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, which aims to halve road deaths and serious injuries by 2030 and achieve zero road fatalities and serious injuries by 2050.

The figures, released by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) on Wednesday, are based on provisional fatal collision reports from An Garda Síochána. They highlight a significant number of male fatalities, with young people aged 25 and under particularly affected. Fatalities were most frequent during the evening, between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Dublin recorded the highest number of deaths (23), followed by Cork (19), Mayo (19), and Donegal (17).

James Lawless, Minister of State for Road Safety, described each death as a tragedy. He emphasized the importance of Phase 2 of the Road Safety Strategy in 2024, urging collective efforts to achieve the goal of halving deaths and serious injuries by 2030.

RSA Chief Executive Sam Waide expressed condolences to grieving families and acknowledged the modest progress. “While the reduction in fatalities is a step in the right direction, it reinforces the urgency of intensifying our efforts,” Waide stated. “We must leverage technology, deliver impactful awareness campaigns, and continue road safety education to build a safer future.”

Assistant Garda Commissioner Paula Hilman highlighted the role of enforcement and technology in reducing road risks: “This year, Gardaí conducted over 100,000 checkpoints, with half focused on Mandatory Intoxicant Testing,” she said. “Safety speed cameras in high-risk areas are already encouraging drivers to slow down. Enhanced roadside policing tools, such as Mobility Devices and Automated Number Plate Recognition systems, are also proving effective.”

Hilman emphasized the importance of public cooperation in achieving meaningful reductions in road fatalities. “As we begin a new year, we urge all drivers to prioritize safety and reduce their speed,” she added.

The progress serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to make Ireland’s roads safer for everyone.