Six dead, hundreds arrested, and thousands caught speeding in St Patrick's weekend crackdown

Six people died on Irish roads and hundreds of drivers have been arrested following a major Garda road safety operation over the St Patrick's Bank Holiday weekend.

New figures released by gadaí show a total of six fatalities occurred between March 11 and March 18, bringing the number of lives lost on Irish roads so far this year to 38.

"Tragically, six (6) people lost their lives in road traffic collisions over the course of the operation. This brings the total number of road fatalities this year to 38—an increase of six compared to the same date last year," a garda spokesperson said.

During the nationwide operation, gardaí also arrested 235 drivers for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs as part of widespread Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints.

Thousands of motorists were also caught breaking the rules, with more than 5,000 detected for speeding offences, while a further 500 drivers were caught using their phone or not wearing a seatbelt.

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Among the most serious incidents recorded were drivers travelling at 124km/h in an 80km/h zone in Louth, 138km/h in a 100km/h zone in Limerick, and 137km/h on the M7 in Kildare.

The figures have prompted a renewed appeal from gardaí, who are urging road users to take greater care.

They said motorists should never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, while also calling on drivers to slow down, stay alert and give their full attention to the road at all times.

"An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to all road users: never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"All drivers are urged to slow down, remain vigilant and give their full attention to the road," they added.