Kerry Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) officially launched its new state-of-the-art rescue vehicle on Friday, significantly upgrading their ability to reach casualties in the county’s most unforgiving terrain.

Funded through the Community Recognition Fund, the new INEOS Grenadier units were specifically chosen for their rugged 4×4 capabilities and “built-for-purpose” design.

Unlike standard commercial vehicles, these Grenadiers have undergone extensive technical modifications to meet the demands of search and rescue operations on the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and surrounding mountains.

The vehicles are engineered for extreme conditions, featuring a 3.5-tonne towing capacity and an integrated cable winch for recovery operations.

To handle the rocky and often flooded terrain of the Kerry highlands, the units are equipped with auxiliary power systems and enhanced off-road suspension.

The investment ensures that KMRT volunteers have the most modern equipment available as they continue to provide 24/7 emergency cover for hillwalkers and climbers across the southwest.

As people across Ireland prepare to celebrate our national holiday, motorists are being urged to plan ahead and never drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

The appeal was issued by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD, the Road Safety Authority (RSA), and An Garda Síochána at the 2026 National Safer Roads Road Safety Conference and Exhibition at the Gleneagle Arena.

An Garda Síochána will be carrying out an enhanced roads policing enforcement campaign over the Bank Holiday weekend from 7am March 12 to 7am on Wednesday March 18.

This comes as international research indicates that drivers with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) between 50-80mg are between 5-10 times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision.

Speaking at the Gleneagle, Jerry Buttimer TD, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, said: “St. Patrick’s Day is our national day of celebration. It is a time for us to come together to celebrate the best of Ireland and the best of our local communities. However, we must all take responsibility and behave properly on our roads. It is never acceptable to drink or take drugs, and drive. We cannot put others’ lives, or our own lives at risk when driving. Where we see such behaviour, we must challenge it and call it out. I urge people to enjoy yourselves but also remember to make the right decisions. Don’t drink and drive, leave the car at home, make alternative travel plans. Please do not speed or use the phone while driving. Don’t be responsible for bringing devastation to your family, friends, and community.”

Michael Rowland, Director of Research, Standards and Assurance at the RSA, added: “St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, but alcohol and driving must never mix.

Every year we see the devastating consequences when someone gets behind the wheel after drinking. We are urging everyone to plan ahead – leave the car at home if you are drinking, organise a lift, and make sure you and your friends get home safely. We also want to remind pedestrians and cyclists that travelling while under the influence of alcohol increases their risk on the road.”

Speaking ahead of the weekend, Assistant Commissioner Catharina Gunne, Roads Policing, stated: “St Patrick’s Weekend is a time of celebration, but it must not be a time of tragedy. Drink and drug driving remain among the leading causes of death and serious injury on Irish roads. Our message is simple: if you are under the influence of an intoxicant do not drive. The risk is never worth it.”

Assistant Commissioner Gunne added: “We want everyone to enjoy the festivities safely. Plan your night out. Use public transport, taxis, or designated drivers. Look out for friends and family. One poor decision behind the wheel can have devastating consequences for multiple lives.”

Kerry County Council’s Road Safety Officer Declan Keogh concluded: “Road safety plays a key part in all our daily lives, and in every local community. Ahead of the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, local authorities are urging all road users to be mindful of the risks while using the road and to think about the consequences which can result from a serious or fatal road traffic collision. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we should all work together and protect each other.”