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Football Fans Asked to ‘Play it Safe’ on the Roads This Weekend

Croke Park will host a Dublin v Mayo double-header on Saturday with the women’s semi-final between the two counties acting as a curtain raiser ahead of the men’s semi-final, and so football fans have been asked to ‘play it safe’ on the roads this weekend.

Putting some rivalry aside, the communications office of Mayo County Council and Dublin City Council have joined forces, teaming up to prevent further lives lost and serious injuries on what’s to be another busy weekend on our roads.

The purpose of this road safety campaign is to raise awareness of road safety, an issue particularly important to us given we travel extensively, not only for sport and recreation, but as a part of country life.  Accidents have affected every club and all our communities at some point, so this is a positive initiative seeking real outcomes in road safety, reduced death and injury, with 7 deaths on Irish roads in the first 11 days of August bringing it to a total of 82 lives lost to date in 2021.

This road safety awareness campaign has a specific focus on speeding and distraction – both of which are Fatal Five factors.

Road Safety Officer Noel Gibbons said, “Mayo and Dublin football fans are some of the most passionate in Ireland. Fans are dedicated to supporting their teams no matter the result. We’re asking them to show the same dedication to road safety to prevent further lives lost and serious injuries on our roads.”

“The message is clear – Slow down, give yourself enough time to arrive to your destination. Keep your head in the game, don’t drive distracted. You need to make good decisions in football. It’s no different on the road. Remember these messages because they will save your life and the lives of others – that’s the best win of all.”

“If you’re driving to the games, or home after or somewhere to watch the games, just keep your eyes on the road. You have to play your part to keep our roads safe. We can’t wait to see a big crowd of our fans at the game again but encourage everyone to take care on their way to and from the game and make the most of public transport or taxis where possible.”

The Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Michael Smyth commented, “we want everyone’s journeys to the games to be as safe and smooth as possible – the excitement should be on the pitch not on the way there – and we need drivers to play their part. We wish the best to all the Teams and their supporters. Whether you’re on the winning or losing side, celebrating or commiserating, remember to act responsibly on the roads and Arrive Alive!”

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Alison Gilliland, said, “GAA fans love a day out in Croke Park and games between Dublin and Mayo always generate a great buzz around the city and stadium. I encourage all fans from Killester to Kiltimagh, Ballyfermot to Ballina to take care of themselves and each other on the way to and from the game. No matter what the outcome of the game is, the real winners will be those who have arrived home safely.”

Source: Mayo County Council

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