Enforcement - not speed limit cuts - key to improved road safety in Mayo

DRIVER behaviour is a core issue in tackling road safety as Mayo councillors again, in the main, have rejected proposed speed limit cuts from 80kph to 60 kph on rural routes.

Enforcement is and will continue to be an issue, a meeting of Mayo County Council was told.

Describing it as a 'knee jerk reaction', Councillor Michael Loftus has queried how the cuts will be enforced, with Councillor Damien Ryan saying it was a 'soft approach' by the minister. Existing regulation is fine if it was enforced, he asserted.

Driver behaviour is a big problem, said Councillor Michael Burke who didn't feel new limits will solve the problems.

Most accidents are as a result of human error, said Claremorris Councillor Richard Finn. The approach required involves policing, education and penalties.

He also commented on the economic impact of slowing down the nation's traffic.

Councillor Harry Barrett said during the election campaign, a big issue brought up in villages was speeding.

The only way to slow traffic in villages is speed bumps, observed Councillor Gerry Coyle, but the authorities are against them.

Local roads have to be cut from an 80 to 60 limit, said Councillor Johnny O'Malley, as they are deadly. He cited how in the US, the motorway limit was cut to 55mph and the death rate fell by 75%.

Speed is the greatest enemy of road safety, stated Councillor Al McDonnell, who also heard the concerns of people during the election campaign.

He had no problem with reductions.

Councillor Sean Carey felt where roads are fit for purpose, a cut was unwarranted. Roads should be looked at individually.