DUBLIN: Gardai is considering introducing a camera system that can detect drivers who are using their mobile phones while driving. Garda hopes the new technology will make Irish roads safer.
Garda Chief Superintendent Michael Hennebry, the new head of the Garda National Roads Policing Bureau, said that the technology is being considered but that there is no immediate timeline for its implementation.
Chief Supt Hennebry said that in the event of an accident or crime, this camera system will be extremely helpful in collecting evidence.
The cameras would be positioned in locations where they could focus on the driver. The images captured could then be used in court.
13,000 cases in six months
The number of cases involving mobile phone use while driving is rising in Ireland. Around 13,000 such incidents were reported in the first six months of this year. Gardai points out that this is a huge increase over last year.
“There is no way pedestrians, cyclists or motorcyclists are safe while other motorists are using mobile phones. We need to highlight the dangers, and welcome any technology that improves road safety,” said Noel Gibbons, road safety officer at Mayo Country Council.
The technology is already being used in Australia
Noel Gibbons said the technology is already being used in Queensland, Australia, and that they plans to make the cameras permanent. “They use this technology to detect drivers who are on their mobiles phones, and drivers who are not wearing their seatbelts,” he said.
This system is also widely used in New South Wales. Mr. Gibbons said that he would welcome any technology that would make Irish roads safer, and that such technology should be used in conjunction with driver education.
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