Irish ICMIF member IPB Insurance has announced its sponsorship of the newly launched Road Safety Matters Transition Year (TY) programme, developed in collaboration with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána (Ireland’s National Police and Security Service). This important initiative aims to promote safer road use among young people across Ireland.
Speaking about IPB’s involvement, John Hogan, Chair of the mutual organisation, expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the programme: “We are excited to be partnering with the RSA as official sponsors in support of our local authority and Education and Training Board (ETB) Members. Encouraging our young people to become road safety aware is very important to us.” This sponsorship aligns with IPB’s ongoing commitment to fostering partnerships that create a positive societal impact, particularly in the area of road safety.”
The Road Safety Matters TY programme was officially launched by Norma Foley, Minister for Education (Ireland), at Marian College in Dublin. It is set to be introduced in 143 schools nationwide, providing students with critical road safety education through a comprehensive series of 10 modules. These include topics such as learning to drive, vehicle components, the effects of speed, alcohol and drugs on driving, managing distractions, the importance of seatbelts, and protecting vulnerable road users. The modules are designed to be flexible, allowing schools to adapt the programme over a 10-week period or adjust according to their schedule.
Foley highlighted the importance of the programme, stating: “The new Road Safety Authority TY programme is a very important road safety awareness resource for schools. With this new programme, we are taking a big step forward in terms of education for a critical age group of road users.”
The initiative was further supported by James Lawless, Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Ireland), who underscored the value of engaging young people. “The Road Safety Matters programme has been developed as a resource that is engaging and easy to follow, encouraging students to apply the theory of road safety to their everyday lives,” he said.
Sam Waide, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority (Ireland), emphasised the programme’s goal of equipping future generations with essential knowledge and awareness for safe road use, especially as many students begin considering their driving licences.
Schools across Ireland are encouraged to register for the initiative and access available materials, including a teacher support booklet, student learning logs, webinars, and additional resources. This collaboration between IPB Insurance, the RSA, and key government departments is set to make a significant impact in promoting road safety awareness among young people.
IPB Insurance says this sponsorship marks another milestone in its dedication to road safety and its active role in supporting educational initiatives that benefit communities across Ireland.
Photo: IPB Insurance
