Pictured at the recent Road Safety Event for Older People at Farnham Estate were (from left): Séamie Clarke, Cavan Age Friendly; Patricia Smith, Cavan County Council Road Safety Officer; Brian McDermott, Joint Chair Cavan Older People’s Council; Deirdre Donnelly, Cavan County Council Age Friendly Programme Manager; Bob Gilbert, Age Friendly Ambassador; Inspector Ann-Marie Lardner, An Garda Síochána, and Mairéad Cranley, Age Friendly Ireland.

Successful Age Friendly event promotes road safety

Published: Mon 10 Nov 2025, 3:50 PM

Over 100 older people from across County Cavan attended a recent Age Friendly Road Safety Event ‘Safe Journeys Ahead’ at the Farnham Estate. The event was organised by Cavan County Council in partnership with An Garda Síochána and the Irish Farmers’ Association.

The event aimed to raise awareness of road safety issues affecting older adults, who are among the most vulnerable road users.

The event was opened by Cllr John Paul Feeley, Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council and Chief Superintendent Alan McGovern.

Attendees heard presentations from Power Risk Driving Management; Sergeant James Gallagher, An Garda Síochána; Joan Garvey, Irish Road Victims’ Association; Mary Sweeney, Senior Physiotherapist, HSE and Louise McGeever from the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

Each speaker provided valuable insights into the physical, cognitive, and behavioural factors that influence safe road use among older adults.

The event also featured a wide range of information stands, including Muintir na Tíre, the Irish Road Victims’ Association, Local Link, Cavan County Council Active Travel, An Garda Síochána, Cavan Older People’s Council, and many others, offering resources on community safety, transport options, and support services.

Attendees at the event were given free road safety packs including high vis vests, torches, ice scrapers and safety armbands.

Cllr Feeley commented: “Older people are vulnerable road users not only as drivers, but also as pedestrians and cyclists. Raising awareness of road safety strategies and highlighting the dangers can only help to save lives. We were thrilled with the level of interest and participation in this event.”

The event was organised as part of Cavan County Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting Age Friendly initiatives and ensuring safer roads for all.