NI road deaths a 'needless loss'

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/northern_ireland/6227605.stm

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The deaths of 125 people on Northern Ireland's roads last year have been described as "an immeasurable loss to families and to society".

There were 90 males and 35 females killed in road accidents during 2006. The figure was 10 fewer than the previous year.

Of those who died, 21 were pedestrians, 46 drivers, 43 were passengers, one was a cyclist and 14 were motorcyclists.

Road Safety Minister David Cairns said each death was "needless and tragic".

He added: "I find it particularly sad that 34 young people under the age of 21 died on our roads in 2006. An immeasurable loss to families and to society.

"The 2006 figure represents a small but continuing downward trend in road deaths in Northern Ireland.

"However, this will be no comfort to families and communities traumatised by the loss of loved ones. I will keep working to prevent others going through this pain."

'Avoidable deaths'

Assistant Chief Constable Roy Toner said road safety would remain a priority for the police throughout 2007.

"Although we saw a decrease in the number of road deaths in 2006, we can take little comfort in the fact that 125 people lost their lives on our roads," he said.

"The pain of these avoidable deaths has touched family, friends and communities right across Northern Ireland and beyond.

"Each one of these victims represents a tragic loss for individual families and friends."