The new Speed Enforcement Camera System (Specs), the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, is expected to be operational in the Newry and Mourne district later this year.

Specs deploys digital safety cameras in pairs to electronically record drivers' average speeds between two fixed points.

The time it takes for the vehicle to travel between both points is used to calculate the average speed.

The cameras do not flash and all the data is digitally stored so there is no need for film.

Warning signs will be in place to advise road users they are entering an average speed zone.

Inspector Sam Cordner, from the Newry and Mourne district, said one in four road deaths in Northern was caused by speeding.

"Our overall aim is to influence driver behaviour and encourage them to slow down, thereby improving road safety and reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads," he said.

"The Newry and Mourne district has one of the highest road fatality rates in Northern Ireland, which is why the scheme is being piloted here and we hope it will reduce speeds and significantly reduce the number of collisions and casualties."

Inspector Cordner said police wanted drivers to "understand that the speed limit was in place for good reason".

"Catching increased numbers of speeding motorists is not the aim and we hope that community representatives and road users will welcome the influence this system will have on driver behaviour and speed," he said.