A new campaign explaining road safety to foreign nationals was launched today by the National Safety Council (NSC) in association with the Gardaí.
The idea of the campaign is to provide road safety information to various minority ethnic groups in Ireland. The campaign focuses on legal requirements such as tax and insurance as well as advice on penalty points, speed limits and seatbelt wearing.
Part of the National Road Safety Arabic leaflet
The NSC will circulate leaflets and posters that have been translated into eight foreign languages; Russian, Polish, Latvian, Lithuanian, French, Portuguese, Arabic and Chinese. An English and Irish language version of the leaflet will also be made available.
The leaflets and posters will be distributed through the minority ethnic press, ethnic shops, advice centres, ports and airports, an Garda Síochána and local authorities.
Speaking at the launch today Minister for Transport Martin Cullen said: "The number of minority ethnic groups and migrant workers living in Ireland has increased in recent times and it is important that integration into the community is given a high priority."
"The tragic collision in Donegal some weeks ago in which five migrant workers lost their lives is one example that collisions can affect all members of the community. A language specific to nationalities should assist in getting the message across to all road users," he added.
Meanwhile, Gardaí will be targeting drink driving offences throughout the St Patrick's holiday weekend.
Assistant Commissioner Mr Eddie Rock told drivers to "be sensible and do your part to reduce the carnage on our roads this weekend."