Mayo GAA supporters urged to leave penalties and points to players

Mayo and Kerry County Councils team up for joint road safety message ahead of All-Ireland SFC final

Thousands of people will travel hundreds of miles to Croke Park for the All-Ireland senior football final between Mayo and Kerry on July 26.

Motorists are being encouraged to leave the penalties and points to the players at the football game.

While Mayo and Kerry will be rivals on the day, both county councils have teamed up for a joint road safety message encouraging safe driver behaviour on the road to and from Croke Park.

Mayo County Council’s Road Safety Officer, Frances Mitchell, said: “We encourage everyone to plan their journey carefully and to make road safety their highest priority.

"Allow sufficient travel time, drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts, avoid distractions while driving, never drive while under the influence of drink or drugs and take regular breaks if travelling long distances.

"By making responsible choices on the road, we can all play our part in ensuring that everyone arrives safely to enjoy the occasion and returns home safely afterwards”.

Kerry County Council’s Road Safety Officer, Declan Keogh, stated: “There will be a lot of excitement and distractions on the journeys to Croke Park.

"We are asking motorists to stay focused, keep their eye on the road and ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt. Long journeys can be tiring for drivers, so short breaks should be factored into the journey plan.

"Whether celebrating or commiserating after the game, drivers should never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Staying safe on the road is the main goal."

Kerry and Mayo county councils agree that road safety is a team effort.

When everyone plays their part, people can arrive safely to enjoy the occasion and return home safely afterwards.