Deborah Erskine said:
“The number of fatalities on our roads in Northern Ireland in 2024 is a stark and tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of road traffic collisions. Each life lost represents a family shattered and left grieving. These are not just statistics; they are loved ones who will never return home.
As we approach 2025, we must do more to improve road safety and prevent further loss of life. With a road safety strategy in place up to 2030, we now must put the hard yards and funding required to implement it. This requires a coordinated and determined effort from all stakeholders, including the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), and, crucially, every road user.
DfI must ensure that our roads are maintained to the highest standards and that necessary safety improvements are implemented where risks are identified. The PSNI must continue its vital work in enforcing road safety laws and tackling dangerous driving behaviours such as speeding, drink-driving, and mobile phone use.
However, responsibility also lies with all of us as road users. Whether we are drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians, we must commit to being more vigilant and considerate on our roads.
Let 2025 be the year we prioritise road safety, work together, and take the steps needed to save lives. Every life lost is one too many.”