DUBLIN, Ireland - The first-ever red-light camera specifically for a railway level crossing will become operational on Friday, at Merrion Gates in Dublin 4. The system, introduced by An Garda Síochána in partnership with Iarnród Éireann and Dublin City Council, will automatically detect and prosecute motorists who break crossing rules.

The camera, activated from 12pm Friday, is designed to improve safety by tackling two key offences: drivers proceeding past the stop line while red warning lights are flashing, and speeding at the crossing location.

Fixed Charge Notices and penalty points will apply automatically. Running a red light at the crossing will result in an €80 fine and two penalty points, while speeding offences will incur a €160 fine and three penalty points. GoSafe, the Garda's road safety partner, will process the camera data.

This initiative marks a new phase in road-rail safety enforcement. "The effective use of this kind of technology will greatly help us to keep rail and road users safe through enforcement," Assistant Commissioner Catharina Gunne, of Roads Policing and Community Engagement, said Wednesday night.

She added an appeal for drivers to always heed warning lights and stop when required.

The Merrion Gates camera is the pilot for a planned rollout of up to six such cameras at level crossings nationwide. The move follows concerning data from Iarnród Éireann, which recorded 23 incidents where vehicles collided with level crossing gates in 2025, a slight decrease from 28 the previous year.

Gardaí emphasised that the technology supports their ongoing work with transport partners to ensure safety at level crossings across the country.