Gardai will be targeting motorists using mobile phones over the next few days - in the hopes that they will modify their driving.

Over 28 thousand people were caught holding a mobile phone behind the wheel last year - that's 76 a day.

Gardaí have said all available personnel will participate in the targeted operation, but are not announcing the exact dates.

The penalty for holding a mobile phone while driving is three points and an 80 euro fine if paid within 28 days.