In recent days police officers from Lisnaskea have conducted speed checks in the vicinity of Donagh Primary School. 

Commenting following the checks a police spokesman said, “Local Lisnaskea officers have been conducting speed checks in the vicinity of Donagh school as a result of complaints made regarding speeding past the school.

“As a result of today’s checks, one fixed penalty was issued and a further three people were issued with advice and warning.” 

He added that the police will continue to monitor the issues for the time to come. 

Speaking to the Herald previously, Michael Grew school principal at St Joseph’s PS Donagh, said pupil safety was of paramount importance. 

He had added that the school was fortunate to have a lollipop lady to cross the pupils safely both in the morning and evening. However, he said, “The speed of cars and lorries passing the school is a concern.”

Councillor Thomas O’Reilly called on road users to be mindful of speed limits in all instances.

“People should be conscious of speed limits regardless of whether it is around a school or not. 30 mile per hour zones are a very safe environment for everybody whether you are in a vehicle, on a bicycle or walking.” 

Cllr O’Reilly also made reference to the work of the Policing and Community Safety Partnership in addressing speeding. 

“We have a pilot system going with the PCSP and some schools where you can go to kids court. The evidence there is that people would rather take a fine than go and face the kids. I take that as a message that people know how dangerous and destructive a crash, even at 32mph can be to children, or anyone else. You must be very conscious that you are driving something that can be a lethal weapon.” 

Across the county many schools in rural areas are facing similar issues with the speed of passing vehicles, according to Cllr O’Reilly. He called on drivers to take responsibility and be aware of other users of the road. “A fraction of a second can change lives forever,” he concluded.