The Government is considering new legislation that would make driving the wrong way up a road a standalone offence, in the wake of Sunday’s crash near Moone, in County Kildare.
Five teenagers died after they decided to drive the way up the M9, leading to a head-on collision with a car on its way to Dublin Airport.
The three women and one child in the second car were on their way to Britain, where they were due to attend a family wedding. They are all still in hospital in a serious condition.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has said he wants to send a message to those who drive the wrong way up the motorway that they will end up either ‘in jail or in a grave’.
On Newstalk Breakfast, Stephen Breen, Crime Editor of the Irish Sun, said he believes that a standalone offence would have the support of victims.
“There are a number of offences that individuals can be charged with - reckless driving, dangerous driving, or causing death by dangerous driving,” he explained.
“But if that's a separate offence, then that can be a different deterrent - and that's something certainly that some victims I've spoken to would call for as well.
“So, if that is a separate charge, then hopefully that's something that can act as a deterrent and perhaps put a stop to this type of behaviour.”
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The Garda Representative Association has also called for legislation that would clarify when they can engage in pursuit driving.
As things stand, the GRA says many Gardaí fear being brought before the courts if they pursue those who drive dangerously.
“I think it's hoped that this legislation can come into force pretty quickly,” Mr Breen said.
“I know you have other members of the GRA who said that there could be delays to this and it might be until 2027, but they want to see it introduced now.
“I've also spoken to victims - an individual whose brother lost his life in North Dublin two years ago.
“His brother was killed… and he wanted to see stronger legislation to act as a deterrent for those who engage in driving in such a reckless manner, but also more support for the Gardaí.”
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The Department of Justice has also promised Gardaí will be trained in pursuit training for the first time, which the GRA has also called for for many years.
“Gardaí are insisting that they haven't got the specialist training to help them deal with pursuits of the nature when they're trying to stop people driving at excessive speeds in a reckless manner,” Mr Breen said.
“They also just want more support because if they do engage in a pursuit of a vehicle which is actually reckless, then there's a danger that they could be brought before the courts themselves.”
Gardaí are continuing to investigate the circumstances of Sunday’s crash and any witnesses have been asked to contact Athy Garda Station.
They are especially keen to talk to anyone with dash cam footage.
Main image: Jim O'Callaghan and the scene of the M9 crash. Pictures by: RollingNews.ie.
