Safety first as people head for weekend events

Extra gardaí have been drafted in for the Midlands Music Festival in Mullingar, Co Westmeath - one of a number of events - including All-Ireland hurling matches - which are set to ensure roads are extremely busy this weekend.

A special traffic plan is in place for the the two-day music festival which kicks off at 1.30pm in Belvedere House today and traffic is expected to be heavy on the M4, N4 and N6 and the N52.

Concert goers have been asked where possible to use public transport and buses to the event will leave from Custom House Quay, in Dublin from 11am until 4pm today, and from 9am until noon on Sunday. Return trips will be immediately after the concert on both nights.

Tickets at €25 return must be booked through 01-8366111 or www.buseireann.ie

Shuttle buses will bring people from Mullingar train station to festival site and return.

As last year, concert goers are being encouraged to bring their own seats, and Met Éireann has forecast at least some sunny spells with temperatures reaching 20 degrees.

It is All-Ireland hurling quarter-final weekend at Croke Park. Today's minor match between Antrim and Kilkenny starts at 12.15pm. The senior matches will see Wexford face Tipperary, throw-in at 2pm, followed by Kilkenny versus Galway at 4pm.

Iarnród Éireann is running a number of special trains for the matches but warned yesterday that tickets were all sold out. Those without tickets should consult the timetable in relation to scheduled services, said a company spokesman.

Meanwhile, the Bud Light Revue - A Modern Comedy Carnival will continue in Dublin's Iveagh Gardens with more than 50 acts, and more than 40 shows. The Iveagh Gardens are located in Dublin city centre near St Stephen's Green and the Luas stop.

Evening racing will take place today at Leopardstown with the first race at 17.50 and the last race at 20.50.

Mountain rescue teams have asked pilgrims to Croagh Patrick in Co Mayo over the weekend to wear appropriate clothing for mountain walking. The rescue services reminded people to expect changeable weather and not to overtax children on the trip.

At the Civic Offices Amphitheatre at Wood Quay in Dublin, a "Kings of Concrete" event is scheduled for this afternoon. The event is described as "a gathering of like-minded people, in essence a collaboration of skaters, BMX'ers, bladers, artists and musicians".

Dublin City Council's family activity day will take place in Johnstown Park, Tallaght from 3.00pm to 5.00pm today. It will feature bouncing castles, face painters, puppet and magic show, circus skills and music.

AA Roadwatch has advised motorists to leave plenty of time for their journeys and to expect delays. The Road Safety Authority has also advised motorists to take special care and not to drink and drive.