Ghosting will cost lives- Higgins

The new online trend of ghosting will cost lives and must be stopped, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Emer Higgins, who represents Dublin Mid West said: “The latest social media challenge called ghosting is on the rise in Ireland and has Gardaí rightly concerned.

“Make no mistake – this challenge will cost lives.

“I implore young people to think twice before ghosting cars, cyclists and other road users. As well as leaving themselves at risk of being knocked down, they could cause a car to hit another car or vulnerable road user.

“Already we have seen one young Irish social media user hospitalised over this and I wish her a speedy recovery.

“I hope young people all over Ireland can learn from this and give up this dangerous challenge.

“Ahead of the school Christmas break there may also be an opportunity for a discussion on road safety in the classroom and I encourage teachers to take up these issues with young people to start the discussion.

“We know how good young people are these days at communicating, raising awareness of the issues that affect them and listening to each other. Please talk to your friends about this and discourage them if you see anyone attempting to engage in this. You could save the life of a friend.

“Parents, who might not have been aware of the trend to date, need to also sit up and take notice. Talk to your teenagers; educate them about road safety and the dangers of challenges like this.”