Remembering road traffic victims

By Finnian Cox

A special memorial mass will be held in Cork’s North Cathedral Church soon to mark the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.

The mass will begin at 11.30am on 24 November and is one of several taking place across the country organised by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Since 1993, the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims has played an important role globally in honouring those who have been killed or seriously injured on roads.

The day recognises the efforts of the emergency services, medical professionals and gardaí, as well as providing a platform from which people can share memories of loved ones. One of the speakers at a launch ceremony for the day was journalist Megan Scully, who lost her brother in a collision almost 20 years ago.

She described the day as an opportunity to share her brother’s story, and to shine a light on the grief surrounding it, but also the support they had that helped to deal with the loss.

She said: “No matter how dark the days are, and how lonely grieving can feel, know that there is always someone there to support you. Today is an opportunity to have that support and celebrate the life of a loved one lost and for those with serious injuries to know that there is support out there, you are not alone.”

2024 has seen 149 people lose their lives on the road. Chief Executive of the RSA Sam Waide described the day as a chance to pay respects to these victims.

He said: “I particularly acknowledge the courage of those family members speaking today, and sharing their stories of loss or life changing, serious injuries. Coming together is important and today is an opportunity to unite in support of others, and I ask all road users to use the day to reflect on their road behaviours.”