Fine Gael TD for Louth in Ireland Peter Fitzpatrick has called for a complete review of speed limits that are in place at present on local and regional roads in Louth.

The review was called following the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe TD published the ‘Guidelines for Setting and Managing Speed Limits.’

Drivers on narrow country roads in Louth will see the incorporation of a new sign with a white circle with black diagonal stripes, following the launch of the review.

Said to be in use internationally, the sign will replace the existing 80km/h sign, which will mean drivers are required to use their judgement when using the road, but must not exceed 80km/h.

"Drivers on narrow country roads in Louth will see the incorporation of a new sign with a white circle with black diagonal stripes, following the launch of the review."

Mr Peter Fitzpatrick said: "For some time I have been highlighting the issue of speed limits that are too high in residential areas or limits that are too low in rural areas.

"The document published today by Minister Donohoe provides advice and guidance to local authorities who have responsibility for speed limits across the country.

"Lower speed limits in these areas may deter this traffic and make the roads quieter for residents. Equally there are rural roads in very good condition that have speed limits so low that it is difficult to adhere to them."

According to Fitzpatrick, consistency is applied where speed limits are concerned.

As part of the plans, new road signage to deal with speed limits in rural areas on minor local roads will be introduced and the residential areas will also see the introduction of new urban ‘Slow Zones’ to reduce the speed limit to 30km/h.