SCHOOL TRAFFIC WARDENS could soon have hidden cameras attached to their signs.
At a road safety meeting in Tullamore this week, road safety officers from local authorities from all around Ireland discussed the work of “lollipop” men and women.
Under a pilot programme to be undertaken in Kildare and Mayo, wardens will be fitted with a camera on their signs, to deter dangerous driving.
The “lolli-cop” will then be introduced around schools in Ireland if the trials are successful. Similar schemes in England, Wales and Scotland have proven successful.
Any video footage could be used to prosecute dangerous and careless driving. The cameras, which will be moved throughout the counties, are activated by the warden and are pointed at the offending car to record the number plate.
The scheme has been launched for the first time in Ireland after a number of incidents in which motorists assaulted crossing patrol staff or ignored their demands to stop.
Under the law, a school warden should be obeyed in the same way as a red traffic light. Failure to stop for a school warden could mean a fine of up to €120 and five penalty points on conviction.
Noel Gibbons Road Safety Officer for Mayo said:
School Wardens crossing patrol officers play a vital role in ensuring school children are provided with a safe route to and from the school. They should be able to do this without fear of intimidation and treating behaviour from inconsiderate motorists.
“Drivers please remember if your car journey should take you through a patrolled area please allow extra time, slow down and be prepared and willing to stop when requested to do so by the patrol officer.”
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