'It is a killer' – MLA calls for action after nearly 300 serious road incidents

Nearly 300 people have been killed or seriously injured on Northern Ireland's roads due to speeding between 2019 and 2023, according to new figures.
The stark statistics reveal that 297 lives were lost or significantly impacted over the four-year period due to speed-related collisions, prompting fresh appeals for action from policymakers and enforcement bodies.
Deborah Erskine, DUP MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone and chair of the Stormont Infrastructure Committee, described the figures as 'sobering'
She said: "Between 2019 and 2023, 297 people were either killed or seriously injured as a result of speeding on our roads.
"Behind each of these figures is a family left grieving or a person living with life-altering injuries.
"My thoughts are with all those who have suffered loss or trauma."
Ms Erskine highlighted young drivers aged 16 to 24 as a group of particular concern, accounting for over two-fifths of serious casualties linked to speeding.
Read more: First Minister to open 2025 Sean Mac Diarmada Summer School
Males were found to be responsible for more than three-quarters of all such collisions resulting in death or serious injury.
She said: "We must ask serious questions about driving culture, education, and enforcement, especially among younger drivers."
The data also showed that 70 per cent of speeding-related incidents took place on rural roads, with nearly 40% occurring over the weekend, particularly between 4pm and 10pm.
Ms Erskine is now calling for a strategic, cross-departmental response, involving not only law enforcement but also education and public health initiatives.
She said: "As chair of the Infrastructure Committee, I am calling for greater urgency and coordination between the minister and all stakeholders, including the PSNI.
"Tackling speeding must be a strategic priority, not just a policing issue, with a cross-departmental approach, involving education and enforcement.
"One death on our roads is one too many.
"There is a role for all of us.
"Slowing down, staying alert, and respecting other road users are basic responsibilities that save lives.
"We need to change attitudes, especially among those who see speed as a measure of confidence or skill.
It isn't – it is a killer.'

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