Wicklow County Council wants to raise awareness about the stark realities and devastating consequences of driving under the influence this festive season. The initiative urges people across the county to think ahead, make safer choices, and ensure they have a plan to get home responsibly.

Christmas is a time of celebration and togetherness, but it can also lead to moments of poor judgment. In December 2024, there was a noticeable spike in both fatal and serious road collisions compared to the monthly averages earlier that year. The “Who is taking you home this Christmas?” awareness campaign aims to draw attention to the safe transport options and a reminder that one decision can change a life forever.

To promote safer behaviour the campaign places emphasis on the following:

• Think ahead – who is driving, are you sharing a taxi, where are you are staying.
• Know the public transport available so you are not leaving it to chance while under the influence.
• The morning after – make sure you are not still under the influence before you or your friends get behind the wheel.

Speaking on the campaign, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan said, “Christmas should be a time for joy, not tragedy. We are urging everyone to plan their journey home so that one avoidable decision doesn’t change lives forever.”

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, commented that, “This campaign is a stark reminder that the safest way home is the one you choose before you start celebrating. Think ahead, look out for friends, and get home responsibly.”

Garda Inspector Michelle Byrne from the Wicklow Roads Policing Unit stated, “An Garda Síochána launched our Christmas Road Safety Campaign on Monday 1st December and it will run until Monday 5th January 2026.  This year we are asking people to make the choice that saves a life.  So far this year, 168 people have tragically lost their lives on our roads; that’s 168 seats empty on Christmas Day.  I am appealing to all road users to stop and think road safety this festive season.  There will be a targeted approach to drink and drug driving, with zero tolerance for those that get behind the wheel while under the influence.  So, make the right, safe choice and let’s make sure that we all arrive home alive this Christmas.”

Linda Healy, Wicklow County Council’s Road Safety Officer stated, “Fatal and serious collisions are not statistics — they are families and communities torn apart. By making a simple plan this Christmas, you can help keep our roads safe for everyone.”

In conjunction with this awareness campaign, a ‘Gift of a Lift’ can be shared with loved ones this Christmas. This card can be downloaded from the Road Safety Section on www.wicklow.ie