An Garda Síochána has issued almost 8,000 fines relating to breaches of COVID-19 restrictions.
As of close of business on Thursday, the following number of fines were issued:
- 6,297 €100 fines for non-essential travel
- 263 €500 fines for non-essential journeys to airports/ports – the total
number of €100 and €500 fines for non-essential journeys to airports/ports is 638 - 197 €500 fines for organising a house party
- 747 €150 fines for attending a house party
- 155 €80 fines for not wearing a face covering
While 620 court prosecutions have been initiated following consultation with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).
The force says fines for non-essential cross-border travel, which came into operation on February 8th, have seen a 23% decrease in cross-border travel compared to previous weekends.
An Garda Síochána also says it "continues to find groups gathering" in breach of regulations.
"These are not just breaches of regulations but are a risk to the individuals involved, their families and loved ones, and continue to put everybody’s health and the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic at risk", it adds.
Source: An Garda SíochánaWhile officers will be continuing nationwide checkpoints and high visibility patrols across the country this weekend.
Deputy Commissioner for Policing and Security, John Twomey, says: "This week the tragic milestone of 4,000 COVID-19 deaths was reached.
"That is 4,000 people that were loved. That is 4,000 people that had family, friends and neighbours. That is 4,000 of our fellow citizens.
"While the vast majority of people are heeding the advice, there are still some who are not complying with public health regulations.
"In doing so, they are putting themselves, those they love, and those they know at risk of catching of a virus that could, unfortunately, result in serious illness or death.
"We all have an individual and collective responsibility to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please stay home, reduce your contacts, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands."
