Mayo County Council launches new road safety awareness campaign

A new Road Safety Awareness campaign was announced by Mayo County Council Road Safety Office in collaboration with Mayo GAA, Mayo LFGA, Mayo Camogie and Mayo Roads Policing encouraging everyone to play their part in making our roads safer.

The campaign was launched in Hastings Insurance McHale Park, Castlebar with signage carrying a hard-hitting message 'Be a Team Player, Think Road Safety. A mistake on the field could cost the game, a mistake on the road could cost you your life.' There is also emphasis on four critical behaviours: Phone down, slow down, belt up and never drink or drug drive.

The aim of the campaign is to reduce deaths and serious injuries by reminding players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and communities that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drawing on the values of teamwork, respect and responsibility that are at the heart of Gaelic Games, this initiative encourages all road users to make safe choices every time they travel.

Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor John Caulfield said: “Gaelic games bring communities together and we all have a role to play in keeping those communities safe. By working together through the ‘Be a Team Player, Think Road Safety’ campaign, we hope to encourage positive behaviours that will help prevent serious collisions and save lives. Every safe journey is a win for everyone."

Head of Roads Policing, An Garda Siochána in Mayo, Inspector David Tiernan added: “Every journey is a shared experience, and every road user deserves respect. Similar to being on the pitch where we encourage players to give respect, get respect, this message is similar on the roads. The campaign is about looking out for one another when using the roads. A moment of patience or consideration can make all the difference. By treating each other with respect, we can help make our roads safer for everyone.”

Mayo County Council Road Safety Officer, Frances Mitchell said “Our ‘Be a Team Player, Think Road Safety’ campaign encourages everyone to play their part in making our roads safer. Whether you’re driving, cycling, walking or travelling as a passenger, every safe choice matters. When we work together, we can reduce collisions and save lives."

Mayo Road Safety Office is inviting all interested clubs to get in touch and promote this road safety initiative by displaying a road safety sign on their club grounds.

For more information or to request a free road safety sign, please contact Mayo Road Safety Office by emailing roadsafety@mayococo.ie.