The National Roads Authority (NRA) is examining a recommendation from local authorities for the introduction of a new countrywide speed limit scheme for roads outside schools.
The limits would be in operation during school opening and closing periods, and activated in tandem with flashing lights to warn drivers.
Michael Egan, corporate affairs manager of the NRA, has confirmed that the proposal which was put forward by councillors from Louth, Monaghan, Cavan. Leitrim, Sligo, and Donegal, at a meeting in Lifford, is being considered .
Matt Donnelly, director of the Border Regional Authority, which made the recommendation, said yesterday they were hopeful the new "alternating" speed limit system could be implemented.
"Local councillors in the six southern Border counties are backing the plan and see it as a vital measure for the elimination of accidents involving children in the vicinity of schools, especially in rural areas," he said.
"It is envisaged that warning 'flashing lights' already provided at some schools could be adapted to incorporate the fully legalised 'flashing' speed limit.
"This limit would only apply on schooldays, during the morning and afternoon at hazardous periods when children are entering or leaving a school premises or at other specific times which could be determined by school management."
The chairman of the Border Regional Authority, Cllr Pádraig McNally, said: "We consider this a very important proposal, and if certain legislative changes are needed in the Road Traffic Act for its implementation, so be it.
"It would result in much greater safety for schoolchildren, and ensure that drivers are compelled to slow down in the vicinity of schools or face a speeding penalty with points, if a breach is detected by gardaí."
He said all local authority members in the Border region fully supported the proposal and were optimistic that it would get the "green light" from the NRA and appropriate Government departments.