24 September 2012

Safety message for people travelling to Ploughing Championships

The RSA is reminding road-users heading to the Ploughing Championships to leave plenty of time to get to the event in Co. Wexford, take plenty of breaks to avoid driver fatigue, wear seatbelts front and back and to drive at an appropriate speed. For those who may be travelling by bus, particularly students and youth groups, the RSA is asking teachers and tour leaders to ensure seatbelts are worn at all times.

Mr Noel Brett, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority: “With thousands of people due to attend this week’s Ploughing Championships in New Ross, it is vitally important that everyone stays safe on the roads, particularly as you get closer to Wexford where traffic will be very heavy. Leave yourself plenty of time to get there and practise safe driving behaviour at all times. This means never driving if you have consumed alcohol, always driving at a safe speed and always ensuring you and your passengers are wearing their seatbelts.”

“This event is always very popular with schools and youth groups so I would urge any teachers and youth leaders who may be bringing young people to the event to make getting there safely a priority. Make sure everyone wears their seatbelt while on the bus or coach and remains seated for the duration of the journey.”

At this year’s Ploughing Championships, the RSA bring along their ‘Road Safety Interactive Shuttle’ and ‘Roll-Over Simulator’. The RSA Roll-Over Car highlights the importance of wearing a seatbelt as people experience the car turning 360degrees. In addition, the RSA will be distributing 50,000 FREE high visibility vests from the Shuttle in association with the Irish Farmers’ Journal and FBD Insurance.

The Road Safety Interactive Shuttle and Roll-Over Simulator will be located at Stand Number 592, Row R, Block 3.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
RSA Communications Office: 096 25008