Drew Harris calls for road safety ‘reset’

Garda Commissioner (head of the Irish police force) Drew Harris has called for “a real reset” when it comes to road safety.

It follows the death of Garda Kevin Flatley, 49, on Sunday whilst carrying out a speed checkpoint in County Dublin.

Garda Flatley died at the scene after he was hit by a motorcyclist in Lanestown, in the north of the county, shortly before 13:00 local time on Sunday.

A motorcyclist, a man in his 30s, was seriously injured in the incident and has been taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where his condition is described as critical.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Mr Harris said it was a “desperately sad day for An Garda Síochána”.

Mr Harris confirmed that investigations are ongoing into his death.

He highlighted “the dangers there are for those who engage in road policing”.

Irish broadcaster RTÉ reported that another garda member was also hit by a motorcycle in Coolock and broke his leg on Sunday.

RTÉ reported one man was arrested.

A third Garda was also injured on duty last week when he was hit by a car.

The Commissioner said that “this is a regular occurrence”.

“The dangers our members are facing is just extraordinary.

“I acknowledge the tougher sentences that have been put in place by the government, but also this does call for a real reset and rethink about our approach as a society in terms of road safety.

“We know what causes dangers on the road,” he said.

“Every one of us has a responsibility when we go out on the road. Our roads are busy, they are not a place for dangerous driving.”

Gardaí also renewed their appeal for information and dash cam footage.

The Commissioner said a number of people had come forward but they were still seeking information on the movements of the R1 Yamaha Motorcycle from around midday on Sunday, in the hour before Garda Flatley was killed.

The GAA club in Balbriggan of which Garda Flatley and his family were members have paid tribute to him.

In a statement the club said: “Kevin was an absolute gentleman who had a huge part to play in our club, always lending a hand when he could. He was always a pleasure to chat to, and his grá (love) for GAA and helping others shone through in every conversation.

“He was a dedicated coach with our u10 girls team, encouraging the players at all times and bringing great energy,” the statement said.

They extended their “deepest of condolences” to Garda Flatley’s family.