A new road safety project for young people has been launched in Donegal.

The Crossroads Programme was officially launched in Letterkenny last week. The programme is aimed at educating young drivers and future drivers about road safety.

It will cater for over 265 participants over a two-year period, providing them with hands-on experience working on real cars, teaching mechanical and bodywork skills, and emphasising the importance of road safety.

Each five-week session of the programme will accommodate ten young participants.

Under the expert guidance of instructors Denis Ferry, Leslie O’Donnell, and members of Pro Social Ireland, the budding mechanics will learn about cars in a fully functional garage located in Letterkenny.

Speaking at the launch Donegal County Council Cathaoirleach Paul Canning said: “This initiative is a great example of how PEACEPLUS funding can drive positive change within our communities.

“This programme will empower the young participants with invaluable skills and instil a strong commitment to road safety.

“We are proud to support initiatives like the Crossroads Programme that make a real difference in the lives of young people in Donegal and the border counties.

“If this programme  can save just one young life on our roads, it will have been worth it.”

Mick Quinlivan, Chairman, Pro Social Ireland, said the programme would encourage young people to respect themselves and all other road users.

“A major concern is that young people modify cars, cut springs, and lower them, which is extremely dangerous, and this programme educates them as to why this practice is wrong and unsafe.

“This project channels the interest young people have in cars in the right direction, educating them on safety before they become a risk on the roads and ultimately save lives and prevent injury. Pro Social Ireland would like to thank Donegal County Council and PEACEPLUS for their support.”

Denis Ferry, tutor on the Programme, said: “The Crossroads Programme aims to harness the passion young people have for cars in a constructive manner.

“It educates them about safety before they start driving, reducing the potential risks and ensuring they do not put lives at risk.

“This course is designed to instill respect for cars, an understanding of how they function, self-respect, and respect for all road users among young drivers, irrespective of gender. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank the PEACEPLUS Programme for their support for The Crossroads Programme.”