O’Dowd advises road users to take extra care on the roads over Easter break

In comes following a series of tragedies on local roads in recent days.

In Armagh, four people died when their car crashed on the Ballynahonemore Road in the early hours of Sunday.

They have been named locally as Marina Crilly, Phil Mitchell, Emma Mallon and Keith Morrison.

Separately, a pedestrian in his 40s died in Newry after being hit by a car.

He has been named locally as Gary McLoughlin.

Minister O’Dowd said: “Tragically the number of deaths on our roads is rising and this is an area of deep concern.

“Last year alone, 71 lives were lost and, so far, this year 15 people have died following road traffic collisions.

“The heartbreaking tragedies from the weekend in Armagh and Newry are fresh in all our minds with another five families now having to live with those devastating consequences for the rest of their lives.

"I know that their communities will rally round them to offer support and I want to extend my sincere condolences to all those impacted.

“As we approach the Easter holiday period, I am aware that more people will be on the roads visiting family and friends, going on day trips or perhaps heading to the airport.

"As Minister with responsibility for road safety, I implore all road users to drive with care and consideration over the Easter period.

“We all share the responsibility for road safety. So if you are driving, slow down; pay attention and look out for other road users; leave the mobile phone alone; always wear a seatbelt and NEVER ever drink or take drugs and drive.

"If you are walking please always be aware of your surroundings, remembering to walk facing the on-coming traffic on rural roads and if walking at night please ensure you can be seen.

"If you are a cyclist or motorcyclist, or come across one while driving, please ensure you put safety first.

“By each and every road user taking personal responsibility, we are likely to see a reduction in the number of people being killed or seriously injured.”