A DUP MLA has accused the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) of waiting for tragedy before acting on road safety concerns in Armagh city.
Gareth Wilson was speaking after receiving a response from Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to concerns he raised about safety at The Mall and across the wider city centre road network.
His intervention follows the recent fatal collision on the Portadown Road within the city limits, in which leading traditional musician and educator Eithne Vallely lost her life. While that location is separate from The Mall, Mr Wilson said it had intensified long‑standing concerns about pedestrian and traffic safety in Armagh.
“I welcome the Minister’s acknowledgement of the concerns that have been raised locally regarding road safety within Armagh city centre,” said the Newry and Armagh MLA.
“However, I am disappointed that the Department continues to rely on a reactive rather than proactive approach when it comes to identifying and addressing potential safety issues.
“The response states that the Department has not identified a pattern or trend in collision history that would warrant intervention at this stage. Whilst statistical analysis has its place, local residents and road users should not have to wait for a pattern of serious incidents to emerge before preventative action is considered.”
Mr Wilson said the death of Ms Vallely had “understandably heightened concerns among many people in Armagh”.
“My thoughts remain with the family and friends of the lady who lost her life. No family should have to endure such a devastating loss,” he added.
“Road safety assessments should not simply be triggered after a tragedy occurs. They should form part of an ongoing process of identifying risks, listening to local concerns and taking action before accidents happen.”
The Newry and Armagh MLA said he will continue to push DfI for a comprehensive look at safety measures in and around the city.
“I will continue to press the Department to undertake a thorough review of road safety arrangements in Armagh and to give serious consideration to measures that can improve safety for pedestrians, motorists and all road users,” he said.
“We need a culture of prevention rather than reaction, and I will keep pushing for the road safety improvements that the people of Armagh want and deserve.”
