Increased garda activity to deal with virus threat

Following the Taoiseach's announcement last Friday night, gardaí across the country began a major weekend operation involving thousands of patrols aimed at encouraging people to adhere to the new public health measures.

In the Nenagh Garda District, road checkpoints were set up at several locations and gardaí called to many businesses and residential areas throughout the district. A male was arrested at Glentara Avenue, Roscrea, on Saturday for allegedly failing to comply with the new measures. The male was reportedly intoxicated and abusive, and he was arrested under the Public Order Act.  
Sergeant Declan O'Carroll of Nenagh Garda Station said a stepped-up level of checkpoints, patrols and proactive high visibility support of the new public health measures would continue across the local district. Sgt O'Carroll said the vast majority of the public are being responsible and adhering to such measures as the social distancing guidelines and keeping within 2km of their homes, save for essential business. Action will be taken as necessary against those who do not comply.

Essential workers have been advised to carry ID with them at all times, with fines and prosecutions on the way for anyone found guilty of breaking the new Covid-19 restrictions.

Regulations under the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) 2020 Act are to be signed shortly.

The priority of the gardaí at this time remains to maximise the safety of the public through engaging, explaining, encouraging the public health measures and ultimately enforcing the health regulations.