Speed camera staff working with GoSafe are staging a 72-hour strike over working conditions and union recognition.

However the company claims that up to 70% of safety camera monitoring sessions are operational.

A spokesperson said: "In addition to the enhanced enforcement presence, up to 70% of safety camera monitoring sessions are operational, ensure cover is in place for the full weekend."

Earlier, trade union SIPTU had claimed at least half of GoSafe's employees would down tools - but the company suggested this "doesn't correlate with reality".

While Gardaí say there will be no shortfall in monitoring as a result of the industrial action.

It says additional resources will be made available in the areas affected.

This October Bank Holiday weekend, Gardaí will also carry out high visibility patrols and checkpoints across the roads network.

It is appealing to motorists not to drive under the influence of an intoxicant and to reduce speed.

This weekend's enforcement activities will specifically target and focus on off-peak hours - between 10.00pm to 6.00am - where recent studies have shown that 75% of fatalities were found to return positive toxicology results for alcohol.

Chief Superintendent Paul Cleary said: "This Bank Holiday weekend we want to keep people safe on our roads.

"Gardaí will be out in force with high visibility patrols and checkpoints and we would be appealing to people not to drive under the influence of an intoxicant or in excess of the speed limit."

Gardaí are reminding motorists to slow down, allow adequate time for their journey and to be mindful of the prevailing weather conditions.

They are asking drivers to ensure that they and passengers, both front and rear, wear their seatbelts - and never,ver drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.