Twenty one more people have been killed on Irish road in the first three months of the year, compared with 2003.
The 28 per cent rise in fatalities is further evidence that the impact of the penalty points system is waning as drivers revert to dangerous habits.
Figures released by the National Safety Council (NSC) this afternoon show that 96 people have died this year on the roads.
Seven young men died in 24-hours last weekend in single vehicle accidents.
The NSC says speed, alcohol and non-wearing of seat belts remain major factors in road fatalities and has called on Garda enforcement "to match international best practice".
