LATEST: Six dead as thousands are caught speeding during St Patrick's road safety operation

Six people have died on Irish roads since gardai launched a major road safety initiative for St Patrick's Day.

The special Roads Policing Operation, which began at 7am last Thursday, will continue until 7am on Wednesday March 18.

"After five days of the operation there has been six fatalities as a result of traffic collisions on our roads. This brings the total number of fatalities on Irish roads this year to 38," said a garda spokesperson in an update issued this Tuesday.

As part of the operation, gardaí are conducting both statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints.

As of Tuesday morning, a total of 188 people had been arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs) while in excess of 4,250 drivers had been detected for speeding offences.

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Gardai have highlighted some of the notable speeds, which were detected on Monday, March 16.

These include a vehicle travelling at 85 km/h in a 50 km/h zone on the Boreenmanna Road in Cork; a vehicle travelling at 98 km/h in a 60 km/h zone on the L3700 at Cloongad, Riverstown, Sligo; a vehicle travelling at 121 km/h in a 80 km/h zone on the R188 Drumnagran, Cootehill, Cavan and a vehicle travelling at 125 km/h in a 100 km/h zone on the N55 at Tullygullin, Kilcogy, Cavan.

In addition, gardai say over 450 drivers have been detected holding a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt since this operation began.

"An Garda Síochána is appealing to all road users to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers and all other road users are being reminded to plan ahead and organise a safe way home if socialising for St. Patrick's Day.

"All drivers who are taking to the roads today are reminded to slow down, take extra care and to give your driving your full attention," said the spokesperson.