New warning signs highlighting commonage areas have been installed on local roads by Louth County Council.

The signs are on Turf Road in Bavan, Omeath, and Turf Road in Edentober, Ravensdale.

The signage alerts motorists that they are travelling through commonage areas where livestock may be present on the roadway, and serves as an important safety measure for both road users and farmers.

The initiative also reflects the legal position under the Animals Act 1985, which removed the automatic liability previously placed on livestock owners for animals straying onto public roads. This is particularly relevant in commonage areas, where animals are lawfully grazed under long-established farming practices.

Welcoming the installation, Councillor Reilly said: “These warning signs are a vital and long‑overdue step in recognising the reality of life in our rural communities.

“Where roads pass through commonage land, livestock have a right to be there.

“Motorists must understand their responsibility to slow down and drive with care.”

He added: “These signs provide clarity, improve safety, and help ensure that where animals are injured due to careless driving, responsibility can lie with the motorist.”

Livestock

The new signage will improve safety for all road users and help protect livestock grazing legally on commonage lands.

It will also provide clearer guidance on responsibility in the event of incidents and reduce conflict between motorists and farmers.

Motorists are being reminded to exercise extra caution on these roads as livestock may be encountered at any time. In such areas, animals effectively have the right of way.

Councillor Reilly said the measure represents a “practical and necessary” step in supporting farmers, protecting animals, and recognising the importance of traditional farming practices in the region.

RSA

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has advice for the transportation of large animals.

According to the RSA: "If you are in charge of animals on a roadway, you must take reasonable steps to make sure the animals do not block other traffic or pedestrians."

It also said: "At night, you should always wear wear a reflective vest and carry a lamp showing a white light to the front and a red light to the back."