Gardaí and RSA to host one-day road safety course for Tipperary sixth year students

An Garda Síochána in partnership with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) will host a joint road safety initiative at the Abbey School in Tipperary Town on January 23 aimed at 6th year students attending schools in five towns in the county. 

Sixth year students from Thurles, Templemore, Tipperary Town, Borrisoleigh and Killenaule will be invited to attend.

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The initiative is designed to engage over 500 senior-cycle students at a critical stage in their lives, many of whom are beginning to drive or regularly travel as passengers with peers.

The programme focuses on promoting responsible decision-making, increasing awareness of road risks, and reinforcing the shared responsibility all road users have in keeping themselves and others safe.

Members of An Garda Síochána Community Policing and Road Policing Teams, alongside RSA representatives, will deliver interactive and age-appropriate presentations.

Key topics include speed, seatbelt use, mobile phone distraction, impaired driving, peer pressure, and the real-life consequences of unsafe behaviour on the roads. 

Through the use of Virtual Reality headsets, rollover simulations and guest presentations, young people will gain an appreciation of the possible life-altering injuries that can occur due to unsafe or distracted driving practises.

 “Sixth year pupils are at a transitional point where independence and responsibility go hand in hand. This programme is about equipping young people with the knowledge and awareness they need to make safe choices, whether they are drivers or passengers," said a Garda spokesperson. 

The RSA emphasised the importance of early engagement with young road users, noting that education and awareness play a vital role in reducing serious injuries and fatalities on Irish roads.

This collaborative approach reflects the shared commitment of An Garda Síochána and the RSA to proactive road safety education and community engagement. By working directly with schools, the initiative aims to foster a culture of safety that extends beyond the classroom and into everyday life.

The event commences at 9am and is expected to run until 3pm. Please contact Sgt. Ray Moloney for further information at (085) 8827708.

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