11.01.08
Walks, police stations and reckless drivers
The Lake Road is one of the more popular walks in Cobh. It provides a nice gentle slope on the way down and a not too severe challenge on the return journey. There are, of course, a number of alternatives to the return journey.
Three of my favourite options are - The sea walk along the impressive new Five Foot Way which is usually very busy with fellow walkers. The tranquil walk along the Lower Road or the return via the leafy but vehicle busy High Road.
Whichever route is chosen, the most prominent structure visible is the new Garda station. Built in the shape of a ship complete with crows nest, funnel and portholes , it must be the most imaginative design for a Garda station in Ireland and of course totally appropriate given Cobh’s long and illustrious maritime history.
It is also a very large building, perhaps in recognition of the two most famous ships associated with Cobh, Titanic and Lusitania? Another unique feature of the building is a roof covered in grass – no, not that type of grass! – a grass lawn.
Recently, the Gardai were busy on the High Road operating a checkpoint. I knew there was a checkpoint before I actually saw the Gardai involved because a motorist was flashing a warning to oncoming cars.
I witnessed a similar incident recently where a motorist was flashing to warn other drivers of the presence of a Garda speed checkpoint. The following is a reasonable interpretation of what the driver was thinking.
“Watch out, fellow motorists, the ‘boys’ are up ahead. We road users must back each other up against the tyranny of the law.”
However, the cold hard reality of such behaviour can be more accurately summed up as follows.
“Watch out fellow motorists in case there is one among you who is a totally irresponsible and highly dangerous speedster. I want to warn you so that you can slow down and give the impression that you are a responsible motorist.
My warning will ensure you are not caught, that you will not suffer any financial or social embarrassment resulting from the consequences of your idiotic actions. By warning you I am prepared to risk serious injury or death on all other road users, including my family and friends.
I sincerely hope that if I ever find myself heading towards your recklessly driven, death dealing vehicle – you will remember that it was me who warned you.”