The Donegal Road Safety Working Group, has issued a road safety appeal to everyone attending the Joule Donegal International to “Keep the Race in its Place”.
“The Rally enthusiasts are predominantly young men, and we want to get the message directly to this ‘at risk’ group who follow the sport” says Brian O’Donnell, Road Safety Officer with Donegal County Council.
Pictured at the launch of the Donegal Rally Road Safety Campaign is Joe Boland, Donegal Joint Policing Committee, Gareth Gibson, Donegal Road Safety Working Group (DRSWG), Charles Sweeney, Donegal County Council, Martin Roarty, Donegal County Council, Brian O’Donnell, Donegal Road Safety Officer, Cllr. Gerry McMonagle, Inspector Michael Harrison, An Garda Síochána, Seamus Neely, Donegal County Council and John Crumlish, Donegal Rally. Photo Clive Wasson
“Just like any other sport, there is a time and a place for Rally driving. It’s important to know that all rally events are well marshalled and take place in a highly controlled environment. The drivers are specially trained and must wear special personal protective gear. Along with this, the cars are specially prepared for the purpose of rallying.
“Large numbers are expected to attend the Donegal Rally, and we want to emphasise the importance of safety, both on the rally course and on the open road. Anyone attending the rally will be getting the message that safety always takes precedence above everything else.
“The ‘Keep the Race in its Place’ message reminds people to only watch the stages from designated safety zones, never to enter prohibited areas, at all times to strictly adhere to the speed limits, always wearing your seatbelt, and never drive after consuming alcohol or drugs.
“Unfortunately there are also those who arrive for the weekend who have no interest in the rally and are only intent in causing trouble for the Gardaí and ordinary members of the public who use the roads.
“This is a great opportunity to again showcase what Donegal has to offer visitors from other parts of the country with large numbers due to arrive for the weekend.
“We want everyone to enjoy the weekend and do not want to see the weekend turn into a tragedy for any family or community and we would encourage all fans to drive with care. Please keep the race in its place.”
Inspector Michael Harrison said: “The Donegal International is the biggest motor sport event in the Republic of Ireland it is an event that attracts large crowds of spectators and visitors to the County.
“An Garda Síochána will have an operation in place to police the Rally and we ask all those attending to comply with any requests made by Gardaí policing the stages, the operation is about keeping the event safe for all attending and participating. We appeal to all those coming to the Donegal to drive safely and not engage in any unsafe driving, please enjoy the weekend and Keep The Race in its Place.”
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