Published: Thursday, 10th December, 2009 9:00am

Police focus on blackspots

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The young man who died in a two-vehicle collision near Irvinestown on Monday became the 107th victim on Northern Ireland roads this year. That equalled the 2008 road deaths toll. But this was exceeded on Tuesday night with yet another road death.

The man who died was named as Michael Dickson, aged in his 20s and married with one daughter. He resided at Cloneytrace Road, Broughshane, Co. Antrim.

Mr. Dickson was driving a Toyota car on the Mossfield Road, Irvinestown at around 11.30am on Monday when it was involved in a collision with a lorry, close to the entrance to the Civic Amenity Site.

The road remained closed for much of the day while police carried out investigations.

Inspector Ian Kennedy of the PSNI, said this latest accident in Fermanagh was a reminder of the number of road deaths this year.

"Already in December we have exceeded the figure for 2008 and we want to reinforce the message getting close to Christmas to take particular care on the roads and look out for themselves and for others."

Earlier in the week, the Environment Minister, Edwin Poots referred to 73 per cent of deaths in rural areas. Inspector Kennedy said that in F District alone, there were around 30 per cent of all deaths with at least nine in Fermanagh this year.

He said while the Minister indicated that more police resources should be aimed at the worst accident blackspots, Inspector Kennedy said they were already doing this in Fermanagh and adjoining areas.

He said they have had good support from road policing units in other parts of the Province and these additional resources would increase the chances of motorists being detected speeding, using a mobile phone while driving or while having alcohol taken.

Local MLA, Tom Elliott said his thoughts and prayers were with the family of this latest road victim.

"It is impossible to find words to describe such a tragedy. Words can not provide comfort enough. A young life is impossible to replace and the heartbreak for the families must be unbearable."