Bishop Liam McDaid.
A leading Irish cleric has appealed to road users to say a “dedicated prayer” before setting off on their journey.
Bishop of Clogher, Most Rev Der Liam MDaid, has urged motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to take special care of themselves and their loved ones on the roads over the bank holiday weekend.
Bishop McDaid’s appeal comes as road fatality figures stand at 22 in the North and 57 in the Republic.
He described the loss of human life on the roads as “heart-breaking” for the loved ones of the deceased and “a tragedy for our society as a whole.”
He added: “Care for one another in our community is a basic human value which travels across all faiths and cultures. This duty of care also applies to our road use and it is fundamental to the common good of society,” he said.
The Bishop appealed to all road users to exercise particular vigilance in terms of safety and to be responsible on the roads over the coming days.
He has recommended road users say the dedicated prayer below before setting out on their journey:
“Before I take my place behind the wheel
I pray, O Sacred Heart – Guide me on my way.
Virgin Mary, Morning Star
From every danger guide this car.
Thou Dear Lord Who gave it to enjoy,
Grant that its purpose be to save and not destroy.
Amen.”
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