Sixty-six of those killed were driving vehicles, while 29 were pedestrians and 22 vehicle passengers. Fourteen motorcyclists also died in crashes.

Environment Minister Jeff Rooker said it was the lowest death toll on the province's roads since 1952.

However, he added: "Let's be clear, this is a significant milestone, nothing more."

"I appeal to all road users to play a personal part in reducing the number of fatalities and serious injuries on our roads during 2006.

"Let us all make this a new year resolution. If we all accept this personal responsibility then together we will save lives," the minister said.

Superintendent Brian Kee, head of the PSNI's Road Policing Development Branch, said: "I am pleased that there has been a reduction in the number of people killed on our roads last year.

"But at 136 the figure is still far too high.

"Improving road safety for all road users is a major policing priority and will continue to be so in 2006. We remain committed to a policy of education backed up by robust enforcement."