Pupils and staff from Killeevan National School are encouraging all road users to ensure they can see and be seen when out on the roads this winter.
The local school welcomed the Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, Robert Burns to their school as part of their road safety message - Be Safe Be Seen.
Killeevan NS have been included in round three of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programme which is a national initiative developed by the National Transport Authority in partnership with Green-Schools and An Taisce.
SRTS supports schools across the country by improving safety and accessibility to assist with a increasing the number of pupils using active travel methods on their journey to school. The scheme at Killeevan NS will focus on highlighting the presence of the school and encouraging lower speeds and more attentive driver behaviour. This will be accomplished largely through signage and road markings in the vicinity of the school gate.
Principal Margaret Mc Cabe highlighted the importance of keeping everyone safe at school start and finish times: "The school warmly welcomes the funding allocated to Killeevan NS to help improve safety in the vicinity of our school. The safety of the pupils commuting to and from school is paramount. Everyone plays a role in road safety; from reducing speed, mindful parking, using the safe cross code and being as visible as possible."
Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, Robert Burns, spoke about how pleased he was to be in attendance: "It is great to see Killeevan National School being allocated funding as part of the Safe Routes to School programme which will allow more of their pupils to be able to walk, cycle and scoot safely to school. The challenge for Monaghan County Council is to make this the norm for all schools in the county so that we can protect the safety and enhance the health and wellbeing of our greatest resource, our children."
Adrian O'Sullivan, Road Safety Officer with Monaghan County Council has the following advice. "This is a time of year when many people take to the roads walking and running as part of their new Year's resolution. Pedestrians and cyclists, including children on their way to and from school, can be difficult to see in the early mornings and at dusk. I would encourage walkers and runners, where possible, to choose routes where a footpath is available. Unfortunately, two pedestrians lost their lives on County Monaghan roads in 2025, as well as one motorcyclist and two drivers.
"The most important rule for all road users is to behave responsibly and not to endanger themselves or others on the road. We have many excellent facilities available for walkers and runners throughout County Monaghan for safe use especially during periods of darkness. However, if walking or running on a public road, wearing something reflective and carrying a torch allows you to be visible at 150 metres away in low beam headlights compared to approximately 30 metres without reflective clothing. This gives drivers extra time and distance to notice you."
