‘Never walk when drunk’ – Kilkenny Gardai issue stark New Year warning as 27 pedestrians die on roads

Gardai in Kilkenny have issued a stark warning to pedestrians ahead of the New Year celebrations: Never walk on roads while drunk.

Twenty-seven people have died while out walking on Irish roads so far in 2019.

This year has seen a dramatic decrease in the number of road deaths involving pedestrians, down from 42 in 2018. That year was particularly bad for pedestrian deaths and 2019 figures are just returning to the same figures as 2016 and 2017.

The gardai have issued a reminder to people who intend on walking home following their New Year celebrations, “never walk while intoxicated.”

“When everyone is out socialising during the festive season,” a local garda spokesperson said, “it is a vital time to raise the subject of pedestrian safety.

“During 2018, 42 pedestrians were killed on our roads. Many were found to have high blood alcohol levels.

“Make sure you are visible to traffic if walking during the hours of darkness and never ever walk while intoxicated.

“Organise a lift, either taxi, designated driver or someone to pick you up.”

The Garda also had this advice for parents: “Please make sure this message hits home before it really hits home. Let’s make this lead up to New Year’s a safe one.”