Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson, head of the PSNI's Road Policing Unit, are urging motorists to slow down and respect temporary restrictions around roadworks as Road Worker Safety Week begins on Monday 2 November 2026.

The campaign highlights the risks faced by those maintaining roads and footpaths and calls on drivers to show patience, follow safety signage and comply with traffic controls to protect crews at work.

Minister Liz Kimmins said: "Road workers carry out vital work to make our roads and footpaths safer, often in difficult conditions and close to moving traffic. It is shocking and completely unacceptable that workers have been verbally or physically attacked simply for doing their jobs. "I am asking drivers to take extra care when approaching roadworks. Please slow down, obey temporary traffic lights and follow the safety signs. Show patience and respect. Let's make sure everyone gets home safely."

Head of the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Road Policing Unit, Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson said: "Temporary speed limits and traffic lights at road works are legally enforceable - ignore them, and the minimum you could receive is a £60 fine and three penalty points.

"However, this is about much more than a fine or points. It's about being a responsible and safe driver on the roads because, just like all of us, road workers have families waiting at home.

"Please, be considerate, slow down, obey temporary traffic lights and help everyone get home safely."