This weekend, counties Mayo and Cavan are set to activate two new standard speed road camera systems. The N3 between Kilduff and Billis in Cavan, and the M5 between Lislackagh and Cuilmore near Swinford, will house these devices. These cameras maintain a track of vehicle speed over particular stretches rather than capturing a solitary snapshot at a specific point. Motorists exceeding the permitted speed limit between two points will see three penalty points added to their license and can be fined up to €160.
The system works by using ANPR technology which records the time, date, and specific position of every vehicle crossing the defined points. An Garda Síochána, the Irish police force, noted the success of similar cameras on the M7 and in Dublin’s Port Tunnel in curbing speeds.
The two camera systems introduced this Monday are part of a wider rollout of traffic monitoring which includes three standard speed cameras and nine static speed cameras. Further information on their exact locations will follow in due course. The Gardaí justified their choices for camera installation as high-volume accident areas suffering from repeated road traffic collision incidents, including injuries, severe injuries, and fatalities.
The objective of these Average Speed Cameras is to positively modify drivers’ behaviour by decreasing the average speed of motorists and consequently reducing collision numbers. Beginning this Friday noon, drivers exceeding the 100km/h speed limit face prosecution. At the end of this week, an official announcement on the activation of the systems will be made by Justice Minister Helen McEntee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.